San Juan, PR
A family of long-time Ocean Park residents took on the task of constructing a thirteen (13) room guesthouse, oriented to the family and group traveling market.
Located on McLeary Street, the principal artery bordering this coastal / capital sector, the Inn is conveniently located between the tourist zones of El Condado and Isla Verde (with it’s international airport) – where eateries abound and public transportation is close by. It is also privileged with proximity to a superb beach, only a three (3) minute walk thru the San Juan’s premier residential community.
The tropical modern-minimalist architectural design, emphasizes surface textures and artisan craftsmanship. The frontal and East facing facades – with its red -tinted concrete referencing traditional architectural filigrees - act as permeable membranes that filter air and sunlight and at the same time buffers outside sound. This delicate geometry - reduced to simple pre-cast concrete members following a calculated pattern - creates an interesting light and shadow interchange.
The rooms are efficiently accommodated on two (2) main levels oriented to the north and south sides. They are equally separated by a central corridor that allow natural lighting and ventilation to enter the structure. All levels are reachable by way of a carefully articulated stair and accessible by elevator.
The key perimeter patios are defined by exposed-textured concrete walls and become sensible extensions of the interior areas, a linear pool enhances the rear terrace. The roof terrace serves as a sundeck and a semi-covered observatory for attractive views of the mountains (to the southeast), the beach (to the north) and the rest of the low-density neighborhood.
Environmentally responsible building technologies have been implemented, such as rainwater collection/distribution system, vacuum-tube solar water heater and LED lighting.
Status: Built
Location: San Juan, PR, US