Pulpo House by Workshop, Diseño y Construcción – Mérida, Mexico

Pulpo House, designed by Workshop, Diseño y Construcción, is a stunning restoration and reimagining of a historic Yucatecan home in Mérida, Mexico. Built in 2021 with an area of 235 m², this project blends traditional architectural heritage with contemporary design interventions. Photographed by Tamara Uribe, the residence highlights the harmonious coexistence of old and new, showcasing the timeless beauty of Yucatán’s early 20th-century homes.

Architectural Concept and Design

Casa Pulpo preserves the charm of its original structure, including high ceilings, exposed wooden beams, and traditional metalwork. The renovation focuses on emphasizing the textures and colors of the historic elements, celebrating the house’s natural patina while integrating modern amenities. Lead architects Francisco Bernés Aranda and Fabían Gutiérrez Cetina prioritized authenticity, opting to expose wood surfaces and maintain the subtle hues that have evolved over time.

Interior Spaces and Materiality

Each room in Pulpo House has its own distinct palette, reflected in the vibrant pasta tiles and accentuated wall borders. The upper tones unify the interiors, complemented by antique white tiles that serve as a canvas for colorful “carpets” of traditional tilework. The kitchen features neutral tones, a wooden and white quartz island, and a cozy breakfast corner, with sliding glass doors that seamlessly connect to the central patio. Natural light, ventilation, and garden views enhance the space’s warmth and functionality.

The central volume, connecting the dining and living areas, sits atop a wooden deck surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. Two sliding glass doors open visual corridors to the gardens and pool, creating a sense of openness, freshness, and connection with nature. Textures, colors, and materials—including stone walls, wooden decks, chukum pool finishes, and diverse vegetation—combine to craft varied, immersive atmospheres.

Modern Volumetry and Private Spaces

The third section of the house introduces contemporary volumetry, with extruded partitions, a vaulted access to the main bedroom, and stairs leading to an upper storage and room. The ground-floor main bedroom features a private terrace with a traditional bajareque roof, casting playful patterns of light and shadow throughout the day. Pulpo House merges historical authenticity with modern living, offering spaces designed for comfort, beauty, and everyday enjoyment.

Sustainable and Local Craftsmanship

Materials and finishes were thoughtfully sourced, including American Standard, Eurovent, Mosaicos Dzununcan, and Tecnolite, highlighting local craftsmanship while adhering to sustainable and durable practices. Pulpo House exemplifies a balance between cultural preservation, functional design, and modern aesthetics.

All photographs are works of  Tamara Uribe