Brag Arquitectos Unveils Casa Valle, a Forest Retreat in Mexico

Brag Arquitectos has completed Casa Valle, a development of two distinct rest houses situated deep within the forest of Avándaro, Valle de Bravo, Mexico. The project is designed to immerse occupants in nature, with architecture that deliberately frames the surrounding landscape and blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor living.

Forest Integration

The design philosophy behind Casa Valle prioritizes the preservation of the natural environment. The houses are strategically implanted on a site with significant topography, a characteristic that influenced their multi-level layout to adapt to the terrain. A key aspect of the project’s conception was to respect and incorporate existing trees into the composition, which led to the preservation of approximately 60% of the property as green space. This commitment to nature is evident in the design, which aims to enhance the sensation of living amongst the trees.

Architectural Elements

The architecture of Casa Valle is characterized by bold basalt “staples,” expansive glass openings, and warm, wood-clad interiors. These elements combine to create spaces that are both contemplative and welcoming. The terraces are conceived as central gathering points, carefully wrapping around mature trees to provide tranquil spots for relaxation and connection with the natural surroundings. This approach ensures that the forest is not merely a backdrop but an active participant in the living experience.

Lighting as a Design Tool

The lighting scheme for Casa Valle was developed with the houses viewed as sculptural elements. The illumination is intended to accentuate the architectural forms and material qualities of the spaces while ensuring visual comfort for the residents. Light washes across stone walls, highlighting their textures, while decorative and focused lighting draws attention to artwork and specific architectural details. In social areas, the design avoids intrusive lighting, opting instead to embrace the natural dimness of the forest and create depth through contrasts that echo the exterior landscape. Bedrooms and bathrooms feature a combination of functional downlights and integrated courtesy lighting, fostering a soft and warm ambiance. The predominant color temperature ranges from 2700K to 3000K, contributing to a restful atmosphere, with brighter lighting reserved for functional service areas. The lighting design balances aesthetic considerations with energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Materiality and Connection to Nature

The materiality of Casa Valle draws from regional elements, incorporating basalt, local woods, and contemporary finishes. Large, floor-to-ceiling windows act as living murals, bringing the changing forest views into every room. Skylights and double-height spaces allow natural light to filter down, illuminating interior trees. A water mirror feature further articulates the relationship between the earth, stone, wood, vegetation, and light, grounding the structure within its environment. The overarching intention of Casa Valle is to provide a modern, serene refuge where nature is the primary focus, offering a space for contemplation and rest away from urban demands.

Key facts

This project by Brag Arquitectos offers an compelling example of how contemporary residential architecture can achieve deep integration with its natural surroundings. For readers interested in sustainable design, innovative residential projects, and the architectural responses to challenging natural sites, Casa Valle presents a noteworthy case study in creating tranquil, nature-centric living spaces.

Source: Amazing Architecture – Casa Valle, Valle de Bravo, Mexico by Brag Arquitectos – https://amazingarchitecture.com/houses/casa-valle-valle-de-bravo-mexico-by-brag-arquitectos