CY Country Houses by reyes ríos + larraín arquitectos: Sustainable Residential Retreat in Yucatán

Located on the outskirts of Valladolid, Yucatán, the CY Country Houses designed by reyes ríos + larraín arquitectos offer a unique blend of modern residential design, cultural sensitivity, and ecological awareness. Spanning 2,000 m², this private residential complex, completed in 2022, is conceived as both a personal refuge and a site designed for hospital use, seamlessly integrating with the natural landscape of the region.

Harmonious Integration with Yucatán’s Landscape

The project is set within a Mayan region renowned for its abundant underground cenotes and lush forested areas. To preserve the natural environment, the architects carefully located the main buildings: including the Main House, two additional residential houses, and the service headquarters, on previously deforested land, minimizing the ecological impact. By removing only a thin layer of remaining soil, the exposed natural stone reveals the characteristic geology of the Yucatán Peninsula, connecting residents directly with the land’s intrinsic beauty.

Architectural Composition and Layout

The master plan establishes a thoughtful east-west design axis, linking the two cenotes on the property. This alignment not only strengthens the spatial organization but also enhances the connection between architecture and nature. The complex includes social gathering spaces such as the Main House and an outdoor kitchen pavilion featuring a local grass roof atop a modern steel structure, blending traditional materials with contemporary construction.

Every building within the complex reflects a careful consideration of site, climate, and cultural context. Floor plans and sectional designs maximize ventilation, natural light, and views of the surrounding forest, ensuring a sustainable, comfortable, and immersive residential experience.

Materiality and Sustainability

CY Country Houses employ locally sourced materials, including timber beams and natural stone, creating a tactile connection to the landscape. The design respects the original contours of the land, maintaining a minimal footprint while embracing Yucatán’s tropical environment. This approach reflects a commitment to sustainable architecture, where each intervention balances functionality with environmental sensitivity.

Visual and Spatial Experience

The interiors are characterized by exposed structural elements, generous windows, and open-plan layouts that invite sunlight and forest views into the living spaces. The Main House functions as a social and cultural hub, while private residences and ancillary structures maintain a sense of intimacy and retreat. Outdoor spaces, including gardens and patios, foster interaction with nature and offer a serene escape from urban life.

CY Country Houses by reyes ríos + larraín arquitectos exemplify modern residential architecture in Mexico, where environmental stewardship, cultural context, and contemporary design converge. By prioritizing minimal site impact, embracing local materials, and carefully responding to natural topography, the project creates a residential complex that is both sustainable and deeply connected to its Yucatán setting.

All photographs are works of  Onnis Luque, Diego S. Reyes Larraín