Copas

Architecture needs no words; it silently invites sunlight and breezes, constantly transforming over time, bestowing the space with poetic imagination. Copas, a residence standing alone in a secluded forest, is nestled in the small town of Valle de Bravo, west of State of Mexico.. Surrounded by verdant mountains and clear lakes, the serene and harmonious scenery captivates the heart. The simple geometric forms, unadorned and maintaining the natural essence of raw materials, minimize ecological disturbance, showcasing pure beauty through organic shapes, creating a refuge for living.

For the Pérez Palacios Arquitectos Asociados (PPAA) team, architecture is a thought rather than a form. Based on the understanding of the relationship between people and their surroundings, they translate natural elements into design vocabulary, extending sensory responses through physical space. In the early design discussions, it was clear that the homeowner needed a flexible and free resting space due to work, while also fulfilling the function of gatherings. Adapting to the steep terrain, the functional layout was reversed and segmented, with the entrance placed on the upper slope. The pathway then leads to a series of public areas and terraces, overlooking the surrounding greenery and interacting directly with the treetops. The bedrooms and dining area on the lower level, shaded by layers of leaves, ensure privacy and tranquility, creating an intimate resting environment.

As the father of modernism, Le Corbusier once said, "Architecture is the container of life."In Spanish,"Copas" means "treetops," reflecting the house's intentional design of two staggered floors, each independent and unobstructed. The minimalist facade highlights the overall shape, guiding the residents to delve into the space gradually, calming their minds and finding inner peace. Whether it’s the corridors or ceilings, openings blur the boundaries between inside and outside, welcoming ventilation and expansive views. Even indoors, one can constantly observe the changing seasons, see the sunlight casting mottled shadows on the walls, and hear the breeze rustling the tree canopies, enhancing the space's serene quality.

During construction, the designers avoided cutting down trees, allowing the building to snugly fit among the forest trees, adapting to the natural terrain with minimal development. Interestingly, a large rock was discovered during the excavation of the site. It was decided to place it on the first-floor entrance terrace, echoing the skylight above, revealing an atmosphere of primitiveness and simplicity, subtly unveiling the prelude to this mountain abode. It prompts contemplation on how to create a vibrant living space while maintaining the existing environment.

Design | Pérez Palacios Arquitectos Asociados @perez_palacios_aa

Photography | Rory Gardiner @arorygardiner· Luis Garvan @luisgarvan