Amid the ongoing growth of new residential developments in Apodaca, Nuevo León, Casa Vázquez emerges as a thoughtful response to the evolving urban fabric of northern Monterrey. This project seeks to accommodate the needs of a modern family within a rapidly expanding metropolitan area, while maintaining a focus on spatial quality and conscious design.
The core objective was to create a home capable of evolving alongside a six-member family through the various stages of life. The challenge: to integrate functionality, flexibility, and comfort within a site constrained by height limitations without compromising a sense of openness or the opportunity to frame views to both the north and south. The house also needed to make the most of its vertical potential through strategic use of double-height spaces.
The residence is organized in a distinctive V-shaped plan, anchored by a sculptural staircase that functions as the heart of the home. This central circulation element defines the spatial rhythm, enhancing the social areas with dramatic verticality. Double-height volumes in the living and dining areas allow for abundant natural light and a sense of grandeur uncommon in compact suburban lots.
Entry is through a shared garden vestibule adjacent to the carport, which leads to the main door. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a soaring double-height foyer and an elegant, gently curving staircase. Behind it, a lattice wall filters sunlight and offers glimpses into the main living room. Tall, slender windows frame views of a sculptural courtyard garden and the southern Monterrey sky.
The ground floor integrates social functions seamlessly: an open-plan kitchen and dining room extend from the living area, and a laundry room sits tucked away at the rear. Beside the central staircase, a small vestibule leads to a full guest bathroom and a flexible room that may function as a study or a guest suite ideal for aging family members requiring ground-floor accommodation.
Upstairs, a broad hallway connects the bedrooms. The secondary rooms share a bathroom with a separated vanity area, a solution tailored to streamline busy school mornings. The primary bedroom overlooks the living room's double-height space through a carefully positioned window that maintains visual privacy. It includes a walk-in closet and a spacious bathroom with a built-in vanity.
The Terrace
The upper-level terrace is envisioned as a multifunctional social zone. A central covered area enclosed during colder months divides two terraces: one facing north toward the neighborhood for quiet relaxation, and another facing south toward the street, ideal for gatherings that won’t disturb neighbors. The central space features a barbecue area, lounge seating, and a bar.
Sustainable Systems and Construction
To combat Monterrey’s extreme climate, the house is insulated with 2” foamular panels. The structure employs low-water concrete techniques with CO₂ capture. Landscaping and carport areas use permeable surfaces to promote groundwater recharge and prevent flooding, supported by a French drain system around the perimeter.
The project incorporates solar panels and automated systems for lighting and climate control merging sustainable technology with everyday comfort.