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Project name: SJA I House
Location: Michoacán, México
Architect: Marq. Javier Dueñas Estrada, Arq. Álvaro González Guerra Gómez
Interior Designer: CDM architects + MUMO
Completion: 2013

Located on the picturesque pacific shores of San Juan de Alima, the SJA I House aims to maintain the existing dialog between the mountain and the ocean. Designed and completed by CDM architects, this stunning beach house expertly blends the natural beauty of the surrounding environment with intelligent, stylish design. SJA I House occupies a premier position in the center of an unspoiled bay, 20 meters above sea level. The leading concept behind the project was to create a visual and spatial relationship between the home, hill, and sea. A program was developed to ensure the build would respect important eco-elements, and reach completion with minimal detriment to the environment.

Built on a single platform structure the house uses an authentic South American palapa, palm roofed structure, to create an imposing and impressive abode. The central design utilises a plaza style layout to present an ambiance of openness and grandeur. The defining outdoor feature of the design is undoubtedly the decadent lap pool which invitingly stretches the extremities of the site before a dramatic sharp 20 meter drop to the sea creates synergy between the house and the ocean. The master bedroom at the southern most point of the house, while the bar, grill, and wood oven are located at the opposite end to separate the private and entertaining quarters. The kitchen and living room seamlessly integrate into the visual continuity of the hill. Aside from the main structure, SJA I House features four independent guest rooms. Stone was extracted from the hill to form main platforms and walls, with exposed concrete where structurally necessary. Laminated wood forms columns and beams and are complimented by accents of cedar woodwork. The palapa is made of locally-sourced timber and palm. The house’s expansive floor design was completed using both sandblasted marble to give a smooth but non-slip texture whilst coraline was used in the living areas on account of its excellent thermal capacity.