Sierra Fría House in Mexico City by Esrawe Studio

From the outside, Esrawe Studio’s Casa Sierra Fría seems impenetrable and solid. Its monolithic brick form not exactly welcoming outsiders with open arms. However, upon entering, spaces unfold with a softer tone – a series of continuously flowing, light-filled rooms. The brick façade pushes the outside world away, creating an introspective oasis for family life within its walls.

The 576 square metre home in Mexico City becomes the intimate living space for a family of four, providing privacy as well as connection. Two large volumes joined by a shared hallway, wrap around a central courtyard. An area that becomes the heart of the home, it’s foliage bleeding into all rooms and common spaces. The sunken patio is lined with paved stone and beds of lush greenery. Plants coat the ground, climb up walls, and reach for the sky. All of a sudden occupants are thrust into a different world – the buzz of contemporary life dulled by the soft rustling of leaves.

An expansive bathroom draped entirely in soft grey marble stands as the physical manifestation of our dreams. I mean, who could be stressed when soaking in that bath! A skylight becomes a small portal to the outside world – by day filtering in sunlight, and by night, showcasing an ocean of stars.

Movement throughout the project is characterised by clean lines and natural finishes which create a relaxing, welcoming environment. The architect’s simple material expression includes a layering of natural wood, exposed concrete, and marble. The understated scheme allows layered views and interesting spatial relationships to become the focus free from distraction. Light falls down the slits in the stair and illuminates the floor. The soft warm glow becoming a key decorative feature in the minimalist space. The ground plane of the house is ever-shifting, as steps become a part of each room. They link together expansive voids with gravity-defying lightness. They also become small solid extensions of the floor plate, carving out shallow sunken living areas. Spatial complexity is achieved while a seemingly effortless aesthetic is maintained – something which is defiantly not an easy feat.

Esrawe Studio have managed to create a family home which acts as a sheltered escape, housing spaces for relaxation and contemplation. A quiet afternoon spent nestled within Casa Sierra Fría’s protective brick walls sounds like the perfect antidote to the stress of a busy world – a spot we would love to unwind in!