House in the Forest by Vasconcelos Arquitectura + Espacio Tangible – A Harmonious Family Retreat in Nature

Nestled in the lush forests of San Simón el Alto, just 2.5 hours from Mexico City, the House in the Forest by Vasconcelos Arquitectura in collaboration with Espacio Tangible redefines modern family living in natural surroundings. Located on a 10,000 m² plot, surrounded by towering trees up to 30 meters high, the project transforms the traditional cabin concept into a contemporary retreat designed to disconnect from urban routines and reconnect with nature.

The architectural approach is guided by a principle of adaptation: the house adapts to the forest, preserving all existing trees while introducing twelve new native species to revitalize the ecosystem. The residence is strategically hidden from the street and neighboring properties, ensuring complete privacy and immersion in the forest environment.

The main structure comprises two distinct volumes separating public and private areas, connected by a hallway and transparent staircases, creating uninterrupted visual access to the surrounding landscape. Its central position on the site maximizes 360-degree forest views, making nature the protagonist of the home’s design. Each room features expansive windows that frame the forest like living artworks, fostering a constant dialogue between interior and exterior spaces.

The material palette emphasizes authenticity and longevity, utilizing wood, concrete, stone, and steel—all locally sourced from Mexico. These materials are chosen to age gracefully, telling their own story over time. The house’s modular design, with flexible proportions ranging from 1 to 18 feet, allows the spaces to adapt organically to the family’s evolving needs.

Outdoor spaces include a covered terrace serving as a secondary dining and living area, complemented by a hot water pool. Natural pathways, play areas crafted from fallen logs, and a firepit create opportunities for exploration, play, and family bonding. Elevated on a concrete platform supported by columns, the structure minimally impacts the natural water flow, flora, and fauna, emphasizing ecological sensitivity. The southwest orientation optimizes natural light while leveraging the shadows cast by the trees for comfort and energy efficiency.

The interior design prioritizes family life and children’s freedom to explore safely. About 90% of the furniture is custom-made in Mexico, collaborating with local artisans. Rugs woven on backstrap looms from Oaxaca, handcrafted carpentry from Toluca, and bespoke elements reflect the family’s lifestyle. Rooms are personalized: the girls’ bedroom features their favorite colors, while the boys’ space includes a reading corner and loft for play during rainy days. The interiors also showcase emerging Mexican artists, such as Diego Ascencio, blending cultural authenticity with functional design.

The House in the Forest is more than a family residence; it is a sanctuary for contemplation, exploration, and connection. It exemplifies how architecture can harmonize with nature, creating a home that honors its surroundings while offering meaningful, immersive experiences for its inhabitants.

All the photographs are works of Fabián Martínez, Camila Cossio