Designed to be an isolated, contemplative space amongst the natural environment, flora and fauna of Oaxaca’s Puerto Escondido, it’s safe to say that Casa Volta by studio Ambrosi Etchegaray fits the brief to a T. This stunning residence is composed of three vaulted brick volumes that alternate with breezy outdoor spaces, all of which are connected by a long pool arranged between the volumes.
The studio didn’t look far when choosing the materiality of the home; it was a natural, economical and practical choice to reintroduce the waste brick available in the area as vaulted roofs, which were set above a simple concrete structure of open pavilions pigmented in earthy tones.
Ensuite bedrooms occupy two of the vaulted volumes, which are fitted with wooden and reed doors and windows for privacy. The living, eating and cooking areas are in the third pavilion, which is left completely open to embrace an indoor/outdoor lifestyle. It connects, as with the rest of the house, to the pool — a constant reminder of the sea’s proximity, a mere 100 meters away. The decorative aspect is kept functional and straightforward, allowing the habitants to be rid of the superfluous and fully immerse themselves in the stunning natural setting of this retreat. With its rustic atmosphere, Casa Volta exudes a sense of luxury in a most unexpected and delightful way.
“The intervention of nature, the freedom to seize a space in such a context and the capacity of the space to embrace you are characteristics that we recognise as luxury,” says the studio. “We seek to emphasise staying in a space that gives you the possibility to feel the sea breeze, the wind, and the freshness of the brick — we understand them as a luxury for a few days by the sea.”
Ambrosi Etchegaray was founded in 2011 by Jorge Ambrosi and Gabriela Etchegaray. They are based in Mexico City.
Photography © Jaime Navarro, Sergio Lopez