Casa Xixim | Specht Architects

Casa Xixim

This residence, on a narrow lot fronting a protected bay in Tulum, Mexico, was designed to be fully self-sufficient and to immerse the occupants in the range of environments that the site offers.

photography by © Taggart Sorensen© Taggart Sorensen

A narrow path brings visitors through dense vegetation to a large living/dining / kitchen space that is fully open to the beach beyond. Four bedrooms, above and adjacent to this space, can also be fully opened to the exterior. The transparency of the house allows prevailing winds to flow through and provide cooling while maximizing views of the site.

photography by © Taggart Sorensen© Taggart Sorensen

The house is powered by a photovoltaic canopy that shades a large rooftop terrace. This terrace also collects rainwater that is filtered and stored for use. Other roof areas are planted with native species that provide insulation and screening. All waste is processed through a digester and artificial wetlands system. Casa Xixim is an ecoluxe, grid-tied, net-neutral house that works in harmony with its surroundings.

photography by © Taggart Sorensen© Taggart Sorensen

Project Info
Architects: Specht Architects
Location: Quintana Roo, Mexico
Area: 4800.0 ft2
Year: 2015
Type: Residential
Photographs: Taggart Sorensen