In the urban landscape of Culiacán, Mexico, César Béjar Studio introduces "Casa en Tres Rios," a 330-square-meter architectural endeavor completed in 2020.
The project is a testament to minimalist urban living, seamlessly integrated between two contrasting buildings. Its unique pinkish-red facade marks a distinct departure from the white and wooden exteriors of its neighbors, asserting its presence through simplicity rather than opulence.
Casa en Tres Rios occupies a challenging, narrow plot, skillfully utilizing its space to create a sense of openness and light. The front elevation of the house is a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, featuring a bi-folding gate and a cube-like volume that floats above the forecourt, which doubles as a parking space.
Architect César Béjar's approach to the design was to strip away the superfluous, focusing on monochromatic elegance. The use of a singular color not only distinguishes the building but also highlights its geometric form. This simplicity is juxtaposed with the intricacy of the surrounding structures, creating a dialogue between the old and the new, the simple and the complex.
The interior of Casa en Tres Rios is a play of light and space. Voids and courtyard spaces are strategically placed to draw natural light into the heart of the house. Double-height living areas and dining spaces create an illusion of expansiveness, a clever design move that counters the physical constraints of the narrow site. These areas, positioned between the front forecourt and a rear garden, offer a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.
The color palette inside is a reflection of the exterior's pink render, casting a warm, blush-like glow throughout the living spaces. This is complemented by a yellow-tinted clerestory window at the core of the house, which bathes the interior in a sunny hue, adding depth and warmth to the spaces. This interplay of colors is reminiscent of techniques used by renowned Mexican architect Luis Barragán, echoing a heritage of Mexican architectural color theory.
Upper levels of the house are designed with privacy and views in mind. Bedrooms are strategically placed for seclusion, while a central living area offers a vantage point over the architectural voids. The top floor houses additional bedrooms and a studio space, each with access to outdoor terraces, further blurring the lines between inside and outside.
Casa en Tres Rios by César Béjar Studio is not just a structure but a thoughtful exploration of space, light, and minimalist design. It stands as a beacon of modern architectural thought, deeply rooted in the context of its urban environment.
