Desert landscape with modern house, trees, and cactus.

A desert landscape with a modern house partially visible behind trees and a large cactus in the foreground.

Story

A residence harmonizing with the Los Cabos landscape Nestled in the hills of Los Cabos, the House in Palmilla is a testament to architectural sensitivity towards climate and context. The design, orchestrated by Ignacio Urquiza Arquitectos and Ana Paula de Alba, is defined by two L-shaped roofs that shelter four independent volumes. These volumes are arranged around a central trapezoidal courtyard, creating a dynamic spatial dialogue. The roofs, crafted from wood and clay, extend with 2.1-meter-deep overhangs, casting generous shadows that enhance thermal performance. This thoughtful design ensures that the house remains cool, an essential feature in the sun-drenched landscape of Los Cabos. Each volume within the residence serves a distinct function. The service areas, guest accommodations, and the main suite are strategically placed to maximize privacy and functionality. The living spaces, with their expansive glazed openings, seamlessly connect the interior with the exterior, offering views of the Sea of San José. Material choices further complement the design's climatic considerations. A palette of sand-colored textured concrete, structural laminated oak, and integrated carpentry elements creates a cohesive aesthetic that resonates with the surrounding environment.

Design Highlights

Two L-shaped roofs with deep overhangs for shade and cooling Central trapezoidal courtyard that organizes the spatial layout Distinct volumes for service, guest, and living areas Expansive glazed openings for seamless indoor-outdoor transitions Neutral material palette enhancing the natural setting

Key Facts

Feature Description
Location Los Cabos, Mexico
Architects Ignacio Urquiza Arquitectos, Ana Paula de Alba
Year Completed 2026
Materials Wood, clay, sand-colored concrete, laminated oak
Key Elements L-shaped roofs, central courtyard, glazed openings

Technical Summary

Finishes

  • Roof: Lightweight roofs resolved in wood and clay tiles.
  • Walls: Sand-colored textured concrete walls.

Materials

  • Wood — Roof and interior elements.
  • Clay — Roof tiles.
  • Concrete — Walls and structural elements.

Construction / Systems

  • Roof system: Two L-shaped roofs with perimeter overhangs for shading.
  • Structural system: Independent volumes beneath L-shaped roofs.

Products

  • Not specified

Palette / Lighting

  • Colors: Sand-colored, Neutral tones
  • Lighting: Soft daylight filtering through apertures.

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