Zapote House by EURK buildesign in Merida, Mexico

Project: Zapote House
Architects: EURK buildesign
Location: Merida, Mexico
Area: 6,619 sq ft
Photography: Tamara Uribe

Zapote House by EURK buildesign

The Zapote House is a luxurious modern residence located in Merida, Mexico. This house was designed by EURK buildesign as an urban island within the living space, characterized by its connection to key natural elements such as trees and plants. This is exactly what a city like Merida needs in its fight against rising air temperatures.

We began the project with a diagnosis of context where the site for intervention is located, which we call 'Urban Islands,' which are becoming increasingly rare even though they contain the characteristics necessary for cities and residents to develop and feel comfortable in both private and public spaces.

The rise in air temperature in the city of Merida is at a concerning level due to a lack of shade and green zones; they have been completely replaced by concrete and asphalt areas, creating a hostile environment for pedestrians.

'Cities within houses, not houses within cities.' Within urban islands, the temperature is lower, solar exposure is controlled by natural filters, and contact with nature in our daily lives becomes a basic need. The project is oriented towards adapting to and integrating the urban context, using its natural landscape as a tool rather than an obstacle.

Zapote, as its name suggests, represents a project created from natural elements and ancient inhabitants that serve as sources of food and shade — TREES. This includes a mango tree and six Zapote trees over 25 meters tall with an approximate lifespan of 50 years.

The project offers a constant sensory connection with trees: to see, admire, breathe in, and feel their presence as continuous coexistence. We transformed this house into a sensory experience by defining and accepting the energy and possibilities of nature as one whole, bringing them inside the house.

The layout concept is based on an existing scenario; we positioned ourselves within this imaginary plan and made it our design axis lines. Materials should be quiet and natural, such as concrete with chukum, wood, and natural stone.

–EURK buildesign