Sea Snail House

The Casa Caracol or Sea Snail House is named for the snail-shell incorporated into the local terrain, and also the local limestone, as a result of the accumulation of marine sediments from warm, shallow waters. This snail-shell-mixed terrain is incorporated into the patterned concrete floors and staircases, while limestone creates the project façade-walls.

When we began the project, several multi story homes were already under construction around the site. In response, our design takes an introspective approach, while opening towards the sea. This positions the water as the project’s primary visual and spatial anchor, creating a contrast between the calm interior of Casa Caracol and the density of the surrounding built environment.

The site has a neighbour to the south that prevents windows from being opened on the that façade. As a result of this constraint and referenced on the spiral sea-snails, our project draws a curve that defines the space for vertical circulation, toilets and a large —three stories high— patio that brings in natural light and allows for cross ventilation. Other circles make their marks big and small. With floor slabs straddled by semicircular windows, what appears as a half-moon from the inside comes into its full-circle form on the outside. For a beachside residential building overlooking the tides, the cut-outs act as a subtle reminder to appreciate the seasonality of life.

The supporting structure of the house is primarily composed of concrete and local limestone, both of which are well-suited to Cancún’s salty coastal atmosphere. A charred-wood pillar, inspired by Shou Sugi Ban, punctuates the main social area, creating a bold but grounding visual and material statement. Local materials such as Talavera and clay tiles bring a touch of traditional craft to the bathrooms and pool terrace, respectively. While furniture pieces designed specifically for the house, such as the large circular black wooden table, are adapted to the specific needs of Casa Caracol’s inhabitants.