Climate is one of the key factors to take into consideration when designing a space. Of course, this can present a challenge, especially when dealing with extreme climates and the need for insulating materials that are able to adapt to a wide range of conditions. Luckily, for architects operating in Mexico, the country's privileged climate facilitates the creation of microclimates and spaces that blur the line between interior and exterior.
The Rustic Beauty of the Chukum in Modern Mexican Architecture
In Yucatan, architects are reviving an ancient Mayan stucco technique for contemporary buildings, merging modern architecture with regional history and culture. The technique is called “chukum,” a term derived from the colloquial name for the Havardia albicans tree native to Mexico. Made with chukum tree bark, the material has several defining qualities that separate it from traditional stucco, including impermeable properties and a natural earthy color. Though chukum initially fell out of use following Spanish conquest of the Maya civilization, it was rediscovered and reemployed by Salvador Reyes Rios of the architecture firm Reyes Rios + Larrain Arquitectos in the late 1990’s, initiating a resurgence of use in the area.
https://www.archdaily.com/946291/the-rustic-beauty-of-the-chukum-in-modern-mexican-architectureLilly Cao
Casa Vagantes / Arista Cero + Gina Góngora
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Architects: Arista Cero, Gina Góngora
- Area: 70 m²
- Year: 2020
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Manufacturers: Boxito, Cemex, Comex, Lumínica, MIRAGE, +3
https://www.archdaily.com/933589/casa-vagantes-arista-cero-plus-gina-gongoraPilar Caballero
Tribu Apartments / Arista Cero
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Architects: Arista Cero
- Area: 1450 m²
- Year: 2019
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Manufacturers: AutoDesk, ALUMINICA, MEGA
https://www.archdaily.com/933154/tribu-apartments-arista-ceroAndreas Luco
Salvatierra 150 Building / P11 ARQUITECTOS
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Architects: P11 ARQUITECTOS
- Area: 1130 m²
- Year: 2017
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Manufacturers: Chukum, Haus design center, Lumínica
https://www.archdaily.com/880603/salvatierra-150-building-p11-arquitectosDaniel Tapia