Práctica Arquitectura has designed and erected a single-material home near Monterrey in northern Mexico. The project is officially dubbed El Aguacate, which in English means The Avocado.
Práctica Arquitectura focused on providing a functional dwelling, with a paired-back aesthetic. Focusing on "only what is necessary," the firm created a rather tranquil interior, made out of concrete. In order to enhance the influx of natural light in the dwelling, Práctica Arquitectura also included a pyramidal skylight that greets visitors in the central room.
El Aguacate has two bedrooms and a central gathering space, equipped with a fireplace, dining room furniture, and a number of couches. Práctica Arquitectura also included floor-to-ceiling windows which playfully break up the concrete. The exterior of the one-story single-material home is also cladded in shaded concrete.
Image Credit: César Béjar
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Single-material Home Design
- There is an opportunity for architects and builders to create single-material homes that prioritize functionality and minimalist aesthetics.
- Concrete as a Primary Building Material
- With its strength and versatility, concrete can be used as a primary building material for residential and commercial structures, especially in regions prone to natural disasters.
- Natural Light Maximization
- Designers can incorporate pyramidal skylights or other strategies to maximize natural light in homes and buildings, enhancing environmental sustainability and improving human health.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Architecture
- Architects can explore minimalist, single-material home design using concrete or other materials to create affordable, environmentally sustainable housing options.
- Construction
- Construction companies can focus on building homes and structures made of a single material, streamlining the process and increasing efficiency while reducing costs.
- Home Design and Furnishings
- Designers can create furniture and décor that complement the minimalist aesthetic of single-material homes, using sustainable materials and emphasizing natural light.
