Casa O by Reyes Rosiñol
In Mérida, Mexico, architect Reyes Rosiñol has designed a house, named Casa O, that represents the syncretism between the worldview of the Maya civilization and the ideas brought by the Spanish. The design features a central “sacbé,” or “white road,” that connects spaces, embraces a guaya tree, and is crowned with a circular pool, all of which reflect the region’s cultural identity over time.
A Sacred Cenote and a Central Axis
The layout is organized around a main axis, a “sacbé” (sakbej, meaning “white road” in the Mayan language), which connects the entrance to the guaya tree, framing it as a focal point. This is achieved by placing it between the diagonal of an existing wall and a new converging wall, reinforcing the intention of the project. The tree, which symbolizes nature as a vital element, is embraced by a circular body of water, evoking the sacred cenote. This creates a node that pauses, articulates and distributes the space.
Ancient and colonial apostrophes
Following the natural morphology of the terrain, the elements are positioned to maximize orientation and views, in response to the way ancient Mayan cities were structured. Winding paths are created through the vegetation, establishing a constant dialog between light and shadow. The complex consists of massive volumes, whose materiality evokes a mixture of sascab (sahkab, white earth in the Mayan language) and kankab (k’ankab, red earth in the Mayan language), materials native to the region. The double-height ceilings, the predominance of mass over openings and the closed façades echo the colonial houses that characterize the surrounding urban context.
An Architecture Intertwined with Vegetation
The architectural program responds to the needs and activities of the users and includes four bedrooms – three guest rooms and a master bedroom – and public areas that include terraces, a multipurpose space, living room, dining room, kitchen and preparation kitchen. Maintenance and service areas are also incorporated.
The elements are organized hierarchically around the central node and are strategically incorporated to create a whole that intertwines with the surrounding vegetation, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior.
Sculptural monochrome volumes that create a warm atmosphere
The monochrome volumes appear as sculptural elements, casting dynamic shadows and creating a silent, warm and intimate atmosphere in the interior, which dissolves through the play of light.
Photography by Onnis Luque
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