Sierra Azul begins with a delirious fantasy: to bring the sea to the desert of San Luis Potosí, materializing our client’s childhood dream of living by the sea. And continues with a provocative challenge: inhabiting a contemporary ruin that had been abandoned for 6 years. The metal skeleton and partially extruded grid were the only visible traces of an original design that replicated standard notions of modernity and comfort seen across the new high-end developments spreading throughout the city.

Without demolishing any of the existing we radically shift the original meaning and experience of the house through a series of contesting interventions. Curved walls break the rigid grid and generate a fluid sequence of atmospheres. Blue tones and polished textures—representing the sea,—and red tones and earthy textures—as a metaphor of the desert—bring contrast and difference to the homogeneous white walls. Artisanal techniques, and natural materials unsettle the industrialized aesthetic of the metal skeleton. Lush vegetation, sand dunes, rocks and waterbodies break the massive concrete slab, creating a thriving oasis. Ceramic celosias and hanging vegetation filter light and views, creating rhythmic and colorful patterns within the once monotonous blank wall.

And, above all, a sequenced transition of sea waves and desertic valleys open up to the sea of light of San Luis.