Alpha House came into existence as a visionary project with an unwavering commitment to being an open and inviting abode. It embodies a captivating interplay of contrasts—solid and void, heavy and light volumes. The design ensures that social spaces offer enchanting views of the property, creating a harmonious relationship between outdoor greenery and the residing family, all while preserving the desired sense of introspection within the home.
Project name: Alpha House
Architecture firm: Arkham Projects
Principal architect: Benjamín Peniche Calafell / Jorge Duarte Torre
Project location: Mérida, YucatánBuilt area: 704.76 m²
Photography: Oscar Hernández
Design year: 2019
Interior design: GP Arquitectos
Construction: Edekza
Landscaping: Everis
Typology: Housing
From an external perspective, Alpha House appears as a striking solid structure crafted from raw concrete. Yet, as one explores its depths, it unfurls breathtaking vistas in every space, capturing panoramic views of lush greenery—a colossal concrete haven seemingly suspended above the natural surroundings.
Nestled in a private enclave in Mérida, Yucatán, distinguished by a central park adorned with abundant vegetation—an artistic focal point of our property. In contrast to neighboring residences that turn inward, Alpha House opens itself to the landscape, allowing inhabitants to revel in the natural splendor without compromising on privacy.
Blessed with a coveted north-south orientation, the property facilitates the creation of social spaces amid carefully landscaped gardens, forming a warm and inviting core at the heart of the residence. Complementing the landscaping design, a dense vegetation slope serves as a natural barrier, ensuring seclusion from direct views of the road and security control.
The architectural design adapts to its orientation, casting enchanting flares and shadows toward the south, in tune with the sun’s trajectory. Privacy from potential neighbors is assured through thoughtfully placed lattices on the northern side. The intentional positioning of the garage on the western flank creates a visual illusion—a substantial volume seemingly cradled by the airy embrace of the foliage.
Delving into the architectural program, Alpha House beckons inhabitants with a lofty entrance space that gracefully connects the social area and the guest room. The guest room, strategically positioned, offers a private sanctuary with direct access to the southern garden. At the opposite end, an open kitchen overlooks the pool area, while a concrete extension extends southward, creating a second social zone crafted for nocturnal gatherings.
Ascending to the second floor unveils the private sanctuaries—a pair of twin bedrooms for the daughters, a cozy study serving as a vestibule and meeting space, and the master bedroom with a generous dressing room providing serene views of interior gardens, also housing a dedicated workshop.
Alpha House is more than just a structure; it is an immersive indoor-outdoor haven—a concrete retreat seemingly suspended above the verdant embrace of the property, fostering an environment where inhabitants seamlessly blend with the surrounding nature.
