A Home to Honor Guanajuato’s Heroic Past

In the scenic hills of Guanajuato, Mexico, a city steeped in tales of heroism and rich cultural heritage, Enso House II stands as a testament to the seamless blend of past and present.

Designed by HW Studio, the home is a harmonious fusion of historical reverence and a blend of cultural and contemporary design. It transcends architecture, becoming a sanctuary where the past’s enduring weight becomes light when met with the tranquility of minimalist living.

A Sanctuary Shaped by History

Crafted with profound respect for the region’s cultural heritage and natural rhythms, Enso House II invites its inhabitants to reconnect with history, the surrounding landscape, and the essence of the present moment.

The Story Behind the Design: Embracing Heritage and Heroism

In designing Enso House II, HW Studio Architects drew from Guanajuato’s rich historical tapestry, a region renowned for its architectural identity and cultural significance. As one of the three major silver mining towns of the 16th century, Guanajuato also played a pivotal role in the Mexican War of Independence and the Mexican-American War. Today, it is celebrated for its vibrant streets, breathtaking churches, underground mines, and captivating museums.

An important element of all HW Studio’s work is the incorporation of a site’s historical significance into its design. For Enso House II, a key inspiration was the story of El Pípila, a local hero celebrated for his courageous act during Mexico’s fight for independence. According to lore, El Pípila, or Juan José de los Reyes Martínez Amaro, shielded himself with a massive stone slab to protect against enemy fire as he set fire to the Alhóndiga de Granaditas, securing a vital victory for the insurgents. (Read more about this historic story here.)

The narrative of resilience and the deep-rooted presence of stone in Guanajuato’s architectural vernacular profoundly influenced the design of Enso House II. Stone, embodying both strength and history, was chosen to ground the home in its cultural and geographical context.

A Thoughtful Division of Space

The layout of Enso House II reflects a deep connection to both history and modern functionality. Designed with a cruciform layout, the space is divided into four distinct quadrants, each with a unique purpose that encourages a natural flow and visual harmony:

• Welcoming Garden: A garden of native plants at the entrance offers a living embrace, fostering a sense of protection and hospitality for humans and local wildlife alike.

• Shaded Parking: Existing trees were preserved to provide natural shade for vehicles, underscoring a commitment to environmental sustainability.

• Living Quarters: The one-bedroom residence is a serene retreat, with thoughtfully delineated public and private spaces that enhance daily living.

• Elevated Office: A vertical structure housing the office contrasts with the home’s horizontal expanse, subtly referencing the iconic forms of the Santa Brígida mine in Mineral de Pozos.

This intentional layout fosters a contemplative journey through the property, encouraging interaction with the earth, air, and surrounding mountains—reminiscent of an ancient monastery.

In Dialogue with the Landscape

Enso House II breathes in harmony with its environment. The cruciform design creates purposeful flow, seamlessly integrating natural elements into living spaces. Sunlight streams through expansive windows, casting dynamic patterns on stone walls, while open pathways frame captivating views, ensuring the outdoor environment is an active participant in daily life both in, and outdoors.

Respecting the natural contours of the land, HW Studio allowed the structure to emerge organically from its terrain. This approach ensures the home feels intrinsic to its landscape, as though it has always belonged to the Guanajuato hills.

Architectural Details & Materials: Honoring the Spirit of Place

Guanajuato’s architectural heritage is defined by its strong cultural identity, and stone is at its core. For Enso House II, this material was an obvious choice. Locally sourced, each stone bears the natural imperfections and character of the land, adding authenticity and warmth to the home’s design.

Stone pathways delineate the cruciform layout, guiding movement while fostering an interplay between the home’s built environment and the earth. This deliberate material choice celebrates Guanajuato’s traditions, reinforcing the residence’s connection to its cultural and historical roots.

Interior Design Philosophy: Minimalism with Soul

The interiors of Enso House II are defined by serene minimalism. By stripping away excess, the design allows the inherent beauty of natural materials to shine. Stone walls offer tactile richness, while wooden accents and polished concrete floors introduce warmth and refinement.

Large windows frame the surrounding landscape like living paintings, creating a seamless dialogue between indoors and outdoors. This understated elegance fosters a tranquil environment, encouraging reflection and connection.

Unique Features and Highlights: Stories in the Details

The vertical office tower of Enso House II is a standout feature, rising gracefully above the home’s low profile. This design choice honors the region’s mining history, particularly the iconic Santa Brígida mine, integrating a contemplative space that reflects the past while serving modern needs.

The carefully considered placement of windows and open corridors invites natural light to interact with the materials, enhancing the stone’s texture and creating moments of quiet reflection as the day progresses

The native garden at the entrance is another highlight, enhancing aesthetic appeal while supporting local biodiversity. It underscores the home’s role as a steward of its environment, blending beauty and ecological responsibility whilst providing privacy and a sense of security.

HW Studio's Innovative Design Approach

One of the most fascinating aspects of HW Studio’s design process is their incorporation of neuropsychology. The firm collaborates with a neuropsychologist to better understand the emotional relationships clients have with their living spaces. This psychological insight informs their architectural decisions, ensuring that each project resonates deeply with the inhabitants.

Roger Bores, Architect and Co-founder of HW Studio, explains that the personality and emotional needs of the client are central to their design philosophy. Projects are created to evoke specific feelings, making each home a unique, personalized experience. Casa Emma, with a calming minimalist aesthetic and thoughtful use of natural light, exemplifies this approach. It is a space designed to foster tranquility and reflection, aligning with the emotional needs of its occupant.

OAAK Final Thoughts

Enso House II transcends its function as a dwelling; it is a dialogue between past and present, nature and architecture. Through thoughtful design and material choices, HW Studio has crafted a space that honors Guanajuato’s rich history while providing a peaceful retreat for contemporary living. It truly is a home that encourages us to reflect upon and honor the past, whilst being reminded of how we should find peace in the present.

To learn more about Enso House II and HW Studio’s visionary work, visit their official website.

Photography by César Béjar. Visit @cesarbejarstudio.for more incredible photography

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