'House in Los Cocos' is a timeless architectural creation by Ludwig Godefroy Architecture.
Nestled to the south of Mérida's historic center in Yucatán, Mexico, the House in Los Cocos stands as an emblematic representation of architectural brilliance and the seamless blending of history with modernity. Ludwig Godefroy Architecture, known for their unique design perspectives, took inspiration from the land's inherent proportions to birth this structure. Imagine an elongated plot, 70 meters in length and a mere 8 meters wide, greeting you with a captivating vanishing point effect upon entrance.
At the very heart of this design lies a series of pavilions, reminiscent of pre-Hispanic structures, punctuating the space and providing a fragmented yet cohesive feel. The central focus of these pavilions revolves around a harmonious water body and a serene swimming pool. Flanking this watery oasis are two-bedroom pavilions, each boasting private gardens, thereby crafting a sanctuary-like void right at the center.
But what truly sets the House in Los Cocos apart is its play on interiority. Rather than a mere exterior element, the garden is conceived as an embrace—a space that enwraps its inhabitants, drawing them into a serene communion with nature. Floating above this verdant expanse is the living pavilion, the pulsating heart of social interactions in the house. Architecturally designed to invite the gentle Yucatán breeze, it seems to dance with the winds, bridging the realms of the inside and outside.
Indeed, this design marvel is characterized by its masterful utilization of 'negative space'. This void, formed in the interstices between pavilions, is not merely an absence but an active participant in defining the character of the structure. This play on open and enclosed spaces delineates the public from the private, conjuring the image of an open agora, where life and interactions seamlessly flow.
The expansive layout of the ground floor, paired with its embracing gardens, reimagines the traditional concept of a façade. Instead, the entire area beckons visitors and residents alike for contemplative walks, merging living spaces with nature.
Simplicity lies at the crux of Ludwig Godefroy Architecture's vision for this project. Stripping away the superfluous, the design leans heavily into fundamental elements, favoring an abstraction of forms. The choice of materials - concrete, wood, and stone - not only offers a visual treat but is purposefully selected for their ability to age gracefully, allowing time to enhance rather than mar their beauty.
