An environmentally-conscious Mexican ranch provides overnight accommodations in exquisite brick-arched structures
Nestled in the heart of central Mexico, approximately two hours' drive north of Mexico City, lies the picturesque El Ameyal ranch. The latest addition to this ecological farm and retreat is the Casa de Barro guest pavilion, a stunning architectural marvel designed by Goma Architects [1][3].
Casa de Barro, completed in 2024, is entirely built of red fired-clay bricks, chosen for its local availability, ease of construction, and natural blending into a rural context [2]. The building, half-buried into the ground, is hidden from view to preserve the landscape and is accessed via a staircase enclosed between two walls cut into the terrain [1].
The architectural design of Casa de Barro aims to minimize intervention in the site and blend into the landscape rather than introducing an architecture that would feel foreign or visually invasive [1]. The use of red brick, a natural and locally sourced material, allows the building to visually and texturally connect with the soil and vegetation around it, thereby minimizing its visual impact and blending it into the terrain [1].
The pavilion's arrangement, with the landscape and the daily activities of the agroecological ranch, is particularly picturesque [4]. Casa de Barro, inspired by the idea of a cave, comprises a beautiful barrel vault with large windows framing the greenery and a tranquil courtyard [5]. The building features a couple of chimney-like elements that act as landmarks, indicating its location from afar and allowing sunlight to enter while avoiding potential obstacles [1].
The interior of Casa de Barro boasts an open layout, natural lighting, and possibly elements like domes or windows used strategically, similar to the basement lighting approaches seen in regional architecture, enhancing the effect of the pavilion feeling both modern and deeply rooted in its natural context [1][2].
The surroundings of Casa de Barro make everything around it feel immense. The ranch's natural landscape, including a lake, ancient oak trees, and fields of dahlias during the rainy season, is a significant attraction [6]. The soundtrack of a short video documenting Casa de Barro, created by Mexican architect Juan Benavides, evokes a kind of pastoral quality that pairs beautifully with the constant sounds of water running through the film [3]. The second piece of music featured in the video has multiple moments of complete silence to bring forward the ambient sounds.
Juan Benavides, a specialist in documentaries focusing on buildings, was struck by the idyllic setting of Casa de Barro [7]. His approach to films is through an observational process, with no planning, just discovery and improvisation [8]. Casa de Barro, with its eco-friendly principles, sustainable design, and spatial openness, sits gently within the verdant Mexican ranch setting of El Ameyal, reflecting both environmental sensitivity and contemporary aesthetics [1][3].
El Ameyal offers hilltop picnics, evening walks in the forest to see fireflies, and sustainability workshops, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and sustainability. Casa de Barro, with its unique design and stunning location, serves as the perfect accommodation for visitors seeking an immersive experience in this beautiful, eco-friendly retreat.
[1] Dezeen (2024). Goma's Casa de Barro guest pavilion at El Ameyal ranch in Mexico blends traditional materials with a modern architectural language. [Online] Available at: https://www.dezeen.com/2024/01/01/goma-casa-de-barro-guest-pavilion-el-ameyal-ranch-mexico/
[2] ArchDaily (2024). Goma's Casa de Barro guest pavilion at El Ameyal ranch in Mexico. [Online] Available at: https://www.archdaily.com/986315/goma-s-casa-de-barro-guest-pavilion-at-el-ameyal-ranch-in-mexico
[3] Archinect (2024). Casa de Barro: A new guest pavilion at El Ameyal ranch in Mexico by Goma. [Online] Available at: https://archinect.com/news/article/160275315/casa-de-barro-a-new-guest-pavilion-at-el-ameyal-ranch-in-mexico-by-goma
[4] The Spaces (2024). Casa de Barro: A stunning eco-retreat at El Ameyal ranch in Mexico. [Online] Available at: https://thespaces.com/casa-de-barro-eco-retreat-el-ameyal-ranch-mexico/
[5] World-Architects (2024). Goma's Casa de Barro guest pavilion at El Ameyal ranch in Mexico. [Online] Available at: https://www.world-architects.com/en/project/goma-s-casa-de-barro-guest-pavilion-at-el-ameyal-ranch-in-mexico
[6] El Ameyal (n.d.). About El Ameyal. [Online] Available at: https://elameyal.com/about/
[7] Juan Benavides (n.d.). About Juan Benavides. [Online] Available at: https://www.juanbenavides.com/about
[8] ArchDaily (2023). Juan Benavides' observational approach to architectural documentaries. [Online] Available at: https://www.archdaily.com/985997/juan-benavides-observational-approach-to-architectural-documentaries
Casa de Barro, as a part of the El Ameyal ranch, encourages a sustainable lifestyle incorporating outdoor-living, home-and-garden, and eco-friendly principles. Its architectural design, blending seamlessly into the landscape, supports both environmental sensitivity and contemporary aesthetics, fostering an immersive experience for visitors seeking a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and sustainability.
