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A Mexican Holiday Home from Olson Kundig Architects

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Olson Kundig Architects bring their wonderful rustic and textural sensibilities to bear in Mexico.

The brief was for a generous vacation retreat on a sandy beachfront.

The clients entertain in grand style, yet remain close to the earthy traditions of Mexico.

The sophisticated and convivial retreat is a big departure from the architects’ signature rugged macho fishing cabins.

From a distance, the exterior appears to draw on their Pacific Northwest roots.

But up close, the textural charm of traditional Mexican architecture is employed, with great restraint.

The house is both urbane and supremely elegant.

The industrial touch in this heavy center-pivot door is contrasted with the nobility of a stone floor.

 

The feeling of rounded river stones is contrasted with the smoothness of marble underfoot, in this sumptuously tactile outdoor shower.

An earthy Mexican concrete sink and a restrained rustic faucet.

A stone pillar brings a legendary quality to the bedroom view of the sea beyond.

There are generous public spaces that allow for both conviviality and privacy for the large family who loves to entertain.

But most of all, the house has a timeless sense of peace.