Casa Zempoala
Nestled in the scenic landscape of Hidalgo, Mexico, o.d.e (Oficina Documental de Espacio) unveils Casa Zempoala, a retreat home crafted for a mature couple, blending contemporary design with the essence of local traditions.
Spanning 189 m², the project revolves around two interior patios , envisioned as spaces for family gatherings and quiet reflection—offering a perfect balance between connection and solitude, tailored to this stage of life.
The house reimagines the region’s historical heritage, drawing inspiration from iconic elements like the Padre Tembleque aqueduct, which has shaped the landscape. The project establishes a dialogue between past and present by incorporating both arches and the rosy hues typical of local architecture, transforming them into a contemporary language that enhances its surroundings.
The house’s design is bold and grounded, conceived as a single-story structure to serve its purpose as a retirement home. From the street, its pink façade, complemented by a traditional baseboard made from local materials, blends seamlessly with the heights and volumes of neighboring buildings. Inside, the house unfolds across two levels. The ground floor houses the main bedroom and the social areas: the living room, dining room, and kitchen. These spaces open up to the courtyards through doors and windows that merge indoor and outdoor living, fostering a perfect setting for family gatherings and establishing the social heart of the home. The upper floor features two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and a family room, designed to accommodate visiting family members. A staircase connects both levels, illuminated by a skylight that fills the central space with natural light.
The materiality of Casa Zempoala pays tribute to the visual and textural richness of the Hidalgo landscape. Pink stone, reminiscent of the nearby quarries, is paired with clay and pinewood, bringing warmth and evoking the essence of a traditional “village home.” Every detail, from textures to tones, reinforces the character of a residence where modernity and tradition coexist in perfect harmony.
The orientation of the home is guided by a bioclimatic study tailored to the region’s cold, arid climate. The house is shielded from prevailing winds and faces south to maximize natural light, ensuring optimal thermal comfort. Meanwhile, the landscaping, meticulously designed by Gabriel Guizar, reimagines native vegetation to enhance the sensory experience of the residents. With low maintenance species and thoughtful design, the outdoor spaces invite exploration of textures, colors, and fragrances.
At Casa Zempoala, tradition and culture meet the desire for tranquility in later life and the warmth of family living. With this project, o.d.e. has crafted the ideal space for a retired couple to enjoy a home in perfect harmony with its surroundings.
