The tight construction timeline of this modern home in Mexico informed Soa Soler Orozco Arquitectos’ design decision to utilize a prefabricated element. This constraint provided for an interesting and unique design and construction process as the components of these prefabricated materials needed to be feasibly transportable.
This modular modern home proves that a strategic and thoughtful use of materiality can be translated into a beautiful retreat. Intended to be an annex for this rest house, Casa Molina is a modest yet modern respite from city life.
Casa Molina was to be built in modules. As such, the architects had to design each prefabricated element, which were constructed in an offsite factory, conscient of the freight truck dimensions. The result is a structure and framing that optimizes the profiles of the manufactured metal – a 1800 square feet annex consisting of 24 ft x 8 ft modules.
Similarly, the lighting, electrical, plumbing, and finishes of the floors, walls and ceilings were also prefabricated into the modules before they were delivered on site. The plot was prepared with the necessary foundation to receive the modular, prefabricated elements. From there, the modules were assembled, the facade was applied, doors and windows were fitted and furnishings were added.
The finishing touches and details were applied as soon as the modules and all its elements were complete. Given the efficiency of the designers and contractors, the entire process only took a few days to complete, to the delight of the client.
The modules of Casa Molina were laid out in an L-shaped plan, with the bedrooms enclosed and dining spaces exposed to the outdoors. The architects separated the spaces into private and public wings, connecting them through a centrally located terrace that is elevated with a wide set of stairs. This terrace blurs the boundary between the property and the plot, seamlessly situating Casa Molina to its site.
The architecture of Casa Molina is overwhelmingly informed by its prefab element. The designers planned for the programmatic spaces of this addition – two bedrooms with two full bathrooms and a common terrace space, around the set framing constraints. The materiality was likewise informed by the quick construction deadline.
A minimalist and natural palette was used for the space, from the exposed black steel framing and gray tiles. The furniture also adhered to the palette – sticking to gray and brown tones to match the aesthetic of the home. The industrial feel is softened by the addition of timber furnishings and soft fabrics, bringing in warmth and curves to this boxy annex.
This stunning private residence exemplifies how a careful and thoughtful consideration of the client’s constraints results in a well-designed and beautiful space. Through materiality and creativity, Soa Soler Orozco Arquitectos achieves a timeless and truly magnificent modular modern home.
