Perched dramatically on the steep, westward-sloping terrain of Oaxaca coastal design, overlooking the relentless waves of the Pacific, Casa Tobi stands as a testament to architecture’s primal dialogue with nature. Designed by Espacio 18 Arquitectura, this stunning residence in Puerto Escondido architecture embodies a philosophy echoing Sou Fujimoto’s vision: a space evolving through use and time, where form intimately reflects the rhythms of everyday life and its breathtaking context. More than just a house, it’s a crafted experience, a “crustacean emerging from the rocks, eager to see the sunset.”
The journey begins at the main entrance on the upper level, where visitors are greeted not by a conventional doorway, but by a serene terrace and a captivating reflecting pool. This ingenious water feature does far more than gather rainwater; it acts as a liquid canvas, mirroring the dense jungle canopy and the fiery reddish hues of the sunset. Beyond its beauty, it serves a vital function, bringing cooling freshness to the vibrant social spaces nestled on the level below, while establishing an immediate atmosphere of peace and contemplation. This pool is the overture, setting the stage for a profound sensory journey where nature and architecture become inextricably linked.
Descending from this tranquil threshold, the path deliberately compresses, evoking the feeling of entering a protective cave. This carefully orchestrated transition makes the reveal that follows all the more powerful: the space dramatically expands into a soaring double-height social area. Here, vast large openings act as living frames, showcasing breathtaking views of the undulating hills and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. This level is the home’s dynamic heart, housing a study, kitchen, dining area, living room, a swimming pool, and a fire pit. Designed as adaptable spaces for sharing, every element fosters togetherness and enjoyment, encouraging inhabitants to fully immerse themselves in the spectacular surroundings. Espacio 18 masterfully follows the site’s natural slope with a stepped design, ensuring the architecture seamlessly integrates with the topography and maximizes the views from every vantage point.
Descending further, the lowest level offers sanctuary within the bedrooms. Here, the perspective shifts intimately; views blend with the treetops, creating a deeply personal connection between the interior and the outdoors. The material palette is a deliberate homage to the earth. Earth-toned materialsecho the warm colors of the sunset and subtly reference the protective shell of a crab, reinforcing the project’s visual integration with Puerto Escondido‘s distinctive arid landscape. Water elements are strategically scattered throughout, their presence a poetic nod to the region’s petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua, further blurring the lines between the built environment and the natural world.
Casa Tobi is more than Espacio 18‘s architectural achievement; it’s the realized dream of a family, brought forth through dedication and profound love for the place. It stands as a compelling example of sustainable Mexican architecture and conscious tourism, demonstrating how deep respect for context can create spaces that are both extraordinary and responsible. This is not merely a dwelling; it’s a space crafted for sharing, enjoying, and reflecting. In Casa Tobi, architecture and natureachieve a rare and perfect harmony, a sunset-watching sentinel sculpted from the very soul of the Oaxacan coast.