Mexican Brutalism Reimagined | RVO Architecture Design

Mexican Brutalism is reborn. Shedding the rigidity of its 60s and 70s ancestor, this contemporary interpretation retains the raw power of exposed concrete and geometric forms, with a distinctly Mexican twist. Functionality takes center stage, but softened by courtyards and wood elements – a vibrant nod to Mexico's crafts soul. It's a powerful statement, a fusion of form and function.

“The clients' openness to ideas and creativity, along with their willingness to push the boundaries of how we experience space, truly inspired us on this project”, says architect Raul Velazquez, founder of RVO Studio.

A contemporary yet local sanctuary
The architect wanted to create an atmosphere that was a contemporary space brimming with imagination, yet inherently local and inviting.

Sources of inspiration
"We were inspired by the local and tribal constructions, which, through the wisdom of countless generations, stand as resilient testaments to human ingenuity, seamlessly blending with nature to defy the relentless heat, torrential rains, and formidable forces of the jungle and ocean," says Raul Velazquez.

Balancing Exposure and Intimacy in Coastal Living
The biggest challenge was to create privacy on a mostly exposed property, facing a public beach and open-faced neighbor houses. “We wanted the house to look at the ocean, but at the same time, feel warm, familiar, and private. The overall project took about 2.5 years," remembers Raul. The architects created privacy through strategic placement of wooden screens and architectural elements, ensuring seclusion while maintaining light, ventilation, and ocean views.

Color palette
The structure was designed to honestly reflect its construction, with gray concrete playing a major role in the color palette. Natural wood was introduced to bring warmth to the project; timber screens were installed untreated, allowing them to naturally weather to gray. A blue tone inspired by the ocean was also added to the staircase, providing a colorful contrast to the neutral hues used throughout the rest of the project.

Embracing natural elements for coastal design
Natural stones and marbles play a primary role in this beachfront project. The stone remains timeless and ages gracefully. Wood, as a secondary addition, provides a living, organic element that softens the stone and the concrete, which are the main materials of the house.
“We always kept in mind the need to use materials that could withstand the salty breeze, extreme humidity, and intense sun of the Mexican coast,” says Raul Velazquez.

Ocean views with private retreats
The house revolves around two major features: the Pacific Ocean and a central patio. The beachfront façade opens towards the ocean, capturing breathtaking views, while the second part of the house offers privacy and intimacy, with spaces designed for friends and family. Open yet covered corridors connect all areas, embracing the sunny Mexican beach climate while capturing the sea breeze.
The first story prioritizes social spaces, featuring large gathering areas, while the second story offers private bedrooms, ensuring remarkable privacy. This layout allows residents to choose between socializing and retreating.
The property boasts six bedrooms, a media room, a gym, a three-car garage, four kitchens, a laundry room, and a casita with an independent garden.

Working with the elements
“There is a natural path for rainwater coming from the mountains and heading to the ocean on this land,” says Raul Velazquez. “We needed to design around this path to allow rainwater to flow along the structure without obstructing its course.”

Photos: Marcos Garcia (Instagram @marcosgarciagarcia.2)

Photos: Kassidy Love Photography

Interior design: Hadad interiorismo