Casa Queña: A Contemporary Oaxacan Beach House Merges Vernacular and Modern Design
Casa Queña, a residence spanning 365 square meters in Oaxaca, Mexico, is showcased in the 89th issue of Glocal Design Magazine titled "Visionarias del espacio," which celebrates 15 female architects and designers. This house integrates traditional living with climate-responsive design, modernizing vernacular features to emphasize a connection with nature. Its expansive roof, inspired by the palapa, provides protection from the elements while improving airflow. Positioned on a slope, the structure boasts a sturdy base and a lighter upper section, with a concrete monolith staircase that leads to the pool and sea. The L-shaped design encompasses three guest rooms and service areas on the ground level, while the upper floor contains public areas and the main bedroom, optimizing views and energy efficiency through carefully placed openings and a rainwater collection system.
Key facts
- Casa Queña is a 365-square-meter residence on the Oaxaca coast.
- The project features a large roof reinterpreting the traditional palapa.
- It incorporates a rainwater harvesting system.
- The house is built on a slope with a solid base and lighter upper structure.
- A concrete monolith serves as a grand staircase and separates social from private areas.
- The L-shaped volume organizes guest rooms on the ground floor and public spaces above.
- Openings maximize views, cross ventilation, and solar control.
- The project is featured in the 89th edition of Glocal Design Magazine, 'Visionarias del espacio.'
Entities
Artists
Institutions
- Glocal Design Magazine
Locations
- Mazunte
- Oaxaca
- Mexico