Guatemalan architectural practice YDR Studio has unveiled Casa Suna, a 700-square-metre holiday home uniquely centred around a circular courtyard designed for stargazing. Nestled between the mountains and sea in La Ribera, the stone-clad residence seamlessly integrates with its desert surroundings, reflecting the sandy hues of the local environment through its palette of pale stone and timber.
Emphasis on Harmony with Nature
“The core concept for the design was to create a seamless integration with its diverse landscape, which includes beach dunes, desert vegetation, and mountains,” shared YDR Studio founder Yolanda De Rueda.
To achieve this vision, YDR Studio designed a structure that blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. Stone and timber were selected to complement the arid environment, offering a tactile connection to the region’s natural beauty.
Central Stargazing Courtyard
At the heart of Casa Suna lies a circular courtyard, complete with a stepped seating area surrounding a fire pit. This open space, framed by folding wooden doors, encourages relaxation, meditation, and stargazing.
“A distinctive circular patio serves as the home’s centrepiece, featuring a fire pit and circular sofa for relaxation, meditation, and social gatherings. Its open design frames the night sky, creating an ideal setting for stargazing,” De Rueda explained.
Seamless Flow from Beach to Desert
The front of the property opens toward the beach, with panoramic views provided by full-height windows in the living area and main bedroom. A concrete terrace, adorned with hammocks and seating, leads to a stepping-stone-like patio and a sculptural swimming pool and jacuzzi.
“The sculptural blocks, reminiscent of playful beach memories, unite the house with the sea in a fun and functional manner,” said De Rueda.
Integration of Design and Functionality
Bedrooms flank two sides of the central courtyard, offering dual views of the beach and the courtyard itself. A gently sloping roof punctuated by skylights introduces natural light into the bathrooms and bedrooms. The living area extends upwards to a roof terrace with expansive views of the surrounding mountains.
Neutral Interior Palette
The natural tones of Casa Suna’s exterior are carried into its interiors, featuring beige concrete, local stone, and dark wooden accents. Bathrooms are elegantly finished with travertine marble, maintaining harmony with the house’s material palette.
“Local stone and beige concrete reflect the natural hues of the sand, while warm wooden accents echo the desert environment,” noted De Rueda.
A Unique Blend of Luxury and Nature
Casa Suna exemplifies YDR Studio’s commitment to sustainable and context-sensitive design, offering its occupants a luxurious yet grounded retreat in the heart of Mexico’s stunning landscape.