Travel House by Indico in Ahuacatlán, Mexico

Project: Travel House Architects: IndicoLocation: Ahuacatlán, MexicoArea: 4,843 sq ft
Year: 2021Photography: Horacio Virrissimo

Travel House by Indico

Indico designed the Travel House — a remarkable modern residence located on a rise above the Mexican town of Ahuacatlán. It offers stunning views of Lake Chapala and Sierra de San Juan Cosalá. With a slightly under 5,000 square foot minimalist modern living space, this house is a perfect retreat any time of year.

The Travel House sits at the top of Ahuacatlán town with breathtaking views of Lake Chapala and Sierra de San Juan Cosalá. The climate here is warm most of the year, allowing for an outdoor lifestyle.

The main goal of this project was to create routes that allow users to discover very special spaces and views from the moment they enter at street level. The house sits one level above the sidewalk but creates a pleasant space at street level, where parking and garage are located. From here we see the main stairs directly in front of us, hinting at something special beyond them. Upon climbing them, one can enjoy an incredible view of the mountains, canyon, and lake. Passing to the main entrance reveals part of the pool and its vegetation between the fence. The main living room has double height with traditional brick vaults and glass windows surrounding it. The terrace features a small pool that blends into the horizon with mountains, double height facing west. The kitchen is warm and cozy but also opens to the garden.

The staircase leading to the second floor creates a sense of lightness and divides living and dining spaces without interrupting sightlines. Walking through the corridor to the bedrooms reveals several distinct and unique views between them. Bedroom views offer vibrant sunsets painted over the lake. The main bathrooms have full-height windows facing the mountains. The cantilever above the main staircase was designed with a metal frame, but the biggest challenge of this work was the stone railing extending over the western canyon.

-Indico