Casa Tobi
Clad in earth-toned materials, the house rises organically from a steep slope, like a crab emerging from the rocks, firmly positioned on a west-facing hillside in Puerto Escondido, Mexico. From here it looks out across the Pacific Ocean and the dense tropical canopy, bathed in the warmth of the afternoon sun and filled with an atmosphere of ease. Designed as a coastal retreat for a photographer’s family, Casa Tobi by Espacio 18 Arquitectura follows the contours of the terrain and vegetation, its playful form blending naturally into the landscape. Within, the occupants are constantly offered sweeping views of the ocean at sunset, a respite from the noise of the city, and a quiet return to balance in conversation with nature.
The main entrance is located on the upper level, where the roof terrace frames a panoramic horizon. At dusk, the reflecting pool captures the colors of the setting sun, offering a scene of stillness that calms the mind. From this point, a narrow descending passage leads into the social areas. The walkway compresses intentionally, then suddenly opens into a double-height space where expansive views are revealed. Here, the freshness of water flowing down from above permeates the interiors, creating a generous setting for a study, dining and living areas, and extending outward to a pool and fire pit. These spaces invite both gathering and immersion in the surrounding landscape. At the lowest level, the bedrooms are set among the treetops, where opening the wooden windows slows the rhythm of daily life and a sense of serenity emerges.
Though human-made, the house is shaped through natural elements, prompting the question of whether it, too, might be considered part of nature. Inspired by the design philosophy of Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto, Espacio 18 Arquitectura adopted principles of simplicity and a stepped layout that anchored the residence to the slope. The central body is articulated as a double-height volume, framed by flanking masses that, seen from above, recall the claws of a crab playfully stretching toward the horizon. Water features distributed throughout the residence evoke the extraordinary petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua in Oaxaca. Casa Tobi is not only a dwelling but also a dream realized with dedication and affection—a place for sharing, enjoyment, and reflection, where architecture and nature remain in constant dialogue.
