In the northern part of Valle de Bravo, Mexico, known as La Peña, a complex of four houses seems to naturally rise from a mountainous, rocky landscape. Called Las Rocas, the project was designed in collaboration by architecture firm, Ignacio Urquiza Arquitectos, and interior design studio, Ana Paula De Alba.

As detailed by the designers, the approximately 69,000-square-foot site was treated as an extension of the adjacent natural reserve. A detailed and accurate site analysis was required to determine where to position each of the houses for minimal impact on the surrounding environment.

The complex is accessed through a narrow cobbled road, which leads to a central service area that contains a car park, storerooms, cisterns, machine rooms, and treatment plants. Users are required to leave their vehicles here and walk to the houses via paths, steps, and small plazas.

The project is described as dynamic as each home features different configurations based on the optimal compositions for each of their locations. The four houses use the same modules and components, but they have unique layouts due to how they respond with the natural context. 

The modules were designed separately in the studio and then mapped out on site to decide their ideal location. Once positioned, the placement of elements, such as doors and windows were determined. 

The spaces feature a combination of closed volumes and open corridors. The corridors relate directly to the local vegetation and landscape. In addition to connecting different areas, they also capture light and heat to regulate the houses’ temperatures. 

The living and dining rooms have corner windows created by a cantilever, which opens up the space and directly joins the interior and exterior. 

This design avoids duplicating areas, a common issue in rural retreats in Valle de Bravo. It ensures the rooms are fully used and become core elements of the program. The kitchen is located in the same space as the dining room and living room.

Las Rocas’ light-gray stucco finish matches the predominant hue of the surrounding rocks. The brushed stone flooring and glass throughout the project work together to merge the houses within the landscape. 

The composition of the solid volumes create a sense of lightness allowing nature to remain as the main element.