Kaab Residence

Mexico is undergoing somewhat of a revolution with its architecture of late and now boasts some of the most impressive pieces of contemporary design anywhere on the planet. So far as residential properties are concerned, you can now add Kaab Residence to that ever-growing list. This mesmerising piece of modern architecture has been designed by Di Frenna Arquitectos and has an impressive and expansive 401m² of living space.

Brilliantly relaxing and minimalistic for an interiors perspective, Kaab Residence from Di Frenna Arquitectos is located in the Comala region of Mexico and the property itself has an interesting backstory. The hacienda, originally established for sugar production in the early 1700s, was acquired by the artist, Alejandro Rangel Hidalgo’s family in the 1940s and remains a beautiful landmark of the community to this day. Kaab Residence, which looks out over a corner of the hacienda, honours this venue and its craftsmanship, as well as that of the artist who once occupied it. 

MARVELLOUS MEXICAN DESIGN

As you enter Kaab Residence, the natural environment immediately bewitches the visitor, delivering moments of quiet wonder; it is marked by dry, arid vegetation, cacti, stones, and earth that makes you feel as if in a bubble that both embraces and contrasts with the rest of the region’s colourful floral aesthetics. Within and surrounding the property are primavera trees, parotas, tamarind trees, and a stunning vista of the La Barragana river that all serve to welcome you into the characteristic sub-tropical climate of the region.

The main concept behind the build of Kaab Residence from Di Frenna Arquitectos was to create spaces where the boundaries between inside and outside are blurred and often indistinguishable: where the ranges and colours of the environment integrate into the shades of the building, and where the inhabitants can walk barefoot across the considered choice of the same natural stone floor without distinguishing whether they’ve come out or into the house – something which really does make this a perfect place to relax and unwind.

The choice to use other components such as local palm wood, river stone, ceilings of woven carrizo, and artisanal blacksmithing as the core elements of the home highlight the connection to the land and to the craftsmanship that is prevalent throughout its design and build. However, the space also transcends the original inspiration behind it by marrying these traditional crafts and materials with new contemporary techniques and innovative structural solutions. A majestic piece of modern Mexican architecture.

Images: Lorena Darquea

Leo Davie