Veinte Diezz Arquitectos proposed a conservation strategy that enhances the resilience of the old structure of the house, reusing as many elements as possible (approximately 70% of the existing structure), which reduced the demolition debris and, therefore, the carbon footprint of the new construction.
For its construction, a careful palette of local materials and textures was chosen, evoking serenity and continuity with the surroundings: natural tones, concrete, and exposed beams, which become the protagonists of the interior spatial image and also establish a link with traditional construction techniques.
Casa Vistalcielo illustrates how this type of small-scale architectural intervention is a more sustainable alternative for revitalizing and restoring cities. The proposal—which integrates a series of gardens, a social core (kitchen and living room), a central courtyard, and bedrooms—revitalizes a forgotten architecture of Mérida, enabling a calm living experience that adapts to contemporary needs.
"Vistalcielo" by Veinte Diezz Arquitectos. Photograph by Manolo R. Solís.
Description of project by Veinte Diezz Arquitectos
"Vistalcielo" is a 155 m² architectural renovation completed by Veinte Diezz Arquitectos in 2024 in the historic center of Mérida, Yucatán. Designed as a vacation rental, the project reimagines a long-abandoned home through a series of open-air patios and closed modules, balancing continuity with intervention. The new layout privileges natural light, ventilation, and material honesty, while preserving as much of the original structure as possible.
Project context and concept
Located on a narrow urban lot measuring 5 by 31 meters, the existing house was in a state of structural neglect, with collapsed roofs and overgrown vegetation. Rather than demolishthe house, the architects proposed a minimal and respectful strategy: conserve the historic masonry walls, introduce light through patios and skylights, and organize the home into six distinct volumes—three covered and three open. This layout generates visual transparency, cross-ventilation, and a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.
Spatial strategy and atmosphere
From the street, a sequence of spaces unfolds: entrance garden, social core (kitchen and living room), central patio, guest suite, rear garden with pool, and a master suite at the back. The central patio becomes the heart of the house, not only organizing circulation, but also acting as a passive cooling element. Curved walls, patios, and open-air connections ensure that every area is naturally lit and ventilated, offering changing atmospheres throughout the day.
Materiality and constructive decisions
A restrained palette of local materials and textures defines the intervention. The main finishes include natural-tone lime plaster and hand-striated concrete in wet areas. Original masonry was stabilized and reused wherever possible. New roof slabs were left exposed, revealing their beam structures as a nod to traditional wooden rollizos. Every bathroom volume includes a crescent-shaped skylight, framing a direct view of the sky.
The steel window grilles were painted in the house’s original tone — a soft sky blue — while the paved areas combine regional stone and minimal landscaping to evoke calm and continuity.
Adaptive reuse and sustainability
Approximately 70% of the original structure was retained, significantly reducing demolition waste and construction footprint. The project's passive design strategies -including natural ventilation, shading, and low-energy materials- contribute to a sustainable approach, both environmentally and culturally.
“Rather than creating a new house, we wanted to recover the one that was already there, revealing its potential through the rhythm of patios, curves and light.”
Architect José Luis Irizzont Manzanero.
"Vistalcielo" is an example of how small-scale architectural interventions can offer meaningful alternatives to demolition. By balancing restoration and reinterpretation, the project breathes new life into a forgotten corner of Mérida’s built heritage, offering a serene and contemporary living experience rooted in place.
