Catedral House by Laboratorio de Arquitectura: A Sustainable Blend of Form, Function, and Nature

Catedral House, located in Santiago de Querétaro, Mexico, and designed by Laboratorio de Arquitectura, redefines modern residential architecture. This 2024 project balances sustainability, material integrity, and spatial efficiency while offering a seamless connection to the surrounding canyon landscape.

Design Philosophy: Material Honesty and Longevity

Sustainable Materiality

Catedral House prioritizes the use of raw, unadorned materials like specially crafted concrete blocks and structural wood. These choices ensure durability, cost-effectiveness, and a dignified aging process, reflecting the architects’ commitment to sustainability and timeless design.

A Linear Axis Layout

The residence features four distinct volumes connected by a central hub, ensuring clear separation between public and private spaces. The layout emphasizes privacy, natural light, and panoramic views of the canyon, aligning the home with its environment.

Key Architectural Features

Central Connector Volume

The double-height connector volume serves as the house’s entrance and spatial nucleus. Tinted glass tensioners reflect the surrounding greenery, integrating the structure into its natural environment.

Open and Dynamic Spaces

The primary ground-floor volume houses social spaces, including a lowered living room, dining area, and kitchen, all seamlessly connected to the terrace and garden. The upstairs master bedroom adds privacy and culminates in a green area that extends the living space into nature.

Privacy and Spatial Division

The remaining three volumes are carefully divided to provide privacy without common walls:

• Ground Floor: A study, guest rooms, and gym.
• Upper Floor: Secondary bedrooms connected by a double-height corridor that ends in a lattice, creating floating ceilings and abundant natural light.

This design eliminates shared walls and integrates greenery to create intimate, tranquil spaces.

Energy Efficiency and Natural Integration

The house’s structural block walls and lattices mitigate solar exposure, reduce reliance on mechanical ventilation, and ensure energy efficiency. The street-facing façade features discreet openings for privacy, while the garden-facing side offers expansive views, promoting harmony with the surrounding landscape.

Aesthetic and Functional Balance

Catedral House exemplifies how material efficiency and architectural integrity can coexist to create a functional and visually striking residence. The interplay of block, concrete, and wood achieves a design that is as practical as it is beautiful.

Key Highlights at a Glance

• Architects: Laboratorio de Arquitectura
• Location: Santiago de Querétaro, Mexico
• Area: 8686 ft²
• Materials: Concrete blocks, wood, tinted glass
• Features: Four volumes, central connector, double-height spaces, integrated greenery

Why Catedral House Stands Out

Catedral House is more than just a residence; it is a testament to the power of sustainable, context-sensitive architecture. With its innovative design and seamless integration into the landscape, this home offers a model for efficient and elegant living.

All Photographs are work of Ariadna Polo