Casa FT by HRTD Hurtado Arquitectos – A Modern Residence in Harmony with Nature

Casa FT, designed by HRTD Hurtado Arquitectos, is a striking single-family residence located in the lush forest setting outside Managua, Nicaragua. Completed in 2021 and spanning 850 m², the house was envisioned as a tranquil retreat for a retired couple seeking a home deeply connected to nature yet refined in design.

The architects minimized earth movement by adapting the residence to the natural topography, placing the main house and social areas on two different levels. This approach not only preserved the landscape but also reinforced a sense of balance between built form and natural terrain.

One of Casa FT’s most distinctive design elements is its acid-wash textures, inspired by techniques brought from Mexico. Applied both inside and outside, these finishes create the look of a washed Chukum texture, adding depth and authenticity without replicating it directly. The exterior, with its warm oxide-like surface, blends seamlessly into the surrounding fauna and landscaped courtyards, evoking a Mediterranean atmosphere that feels both serene and timeless.

Inside, the material palette continues this dialogue between tradition and modernity. Acid-washed walls are paired with clay floors, terracotta tiles, and exposed wooden beams, producing a harmonious contrast that defines each space. The interiors are not only warm and tactile but also carefully oriented—most notably, the main social space, which is crowned by a reinforced concrete vault. This striking architectural gesture anchors the living area while framing clean, uninterrupted views of the expansive garden.

A carefully designed entrance sequence enhances the sense of arrival. Visitors are greeted by a slender wall supporting a dramatic cantilever, which guides them toward the main door. Once inside, the spatial hierarchy is immediately established, with the vaulted living space opening directly toward the courtyard and garden, emphasizing Casa FT’s integration with its natural surroundings.

Throughout the residence, the architects explored the idea of a unique architectural identity, achieved through the consistent use of materials and textures. From the library to the dining area, and from the entrance hall to the more private living quarters, the home carries an atmosphere of sanctuary and retreat. More than just a residence, Casa FT is a contemporary reinterpretation of regional traditions, where unconventional design choices reveal new ways of experiencing space, comfort, and nature.

All Photographs are works of Carlos Berrios