House 720 Degrees is a residential project by Mexican architect Fernanda Canales, located in a valley near Valle de Bravo, Mexico. From the outset, the design links architectural form to material choice and site conditions. The house uses a mixture of local soil and concrete, which gives the building its natural colour and texture. As a result, the architecture visually connects with the surrounding landscape and avoids the need for additional finishes.

In addition, the project operates fully off-grid and responds to a climate with large temperature differences and long rainy seasons. By working with durable, locally available materials, the design supports long-term performance and limits ongoing maintenance.

Circular Layout And Spatial Logic

The main house follows a (literal) circular plan organised around a central courtyard. This layout allows the building to open towards the surrounding landscape while also maintaining an inward focus. During the day, the house frames views of the mountains and nearby volcano. At night, the courtyard becomes the spatial centre.

Rectangular rooms, including bedrooms, bathrooms and the kitchen, sit within the circular design. Meanwhile, circulation areas follow the curved perimeter. These zones extend outward as terraces towards the courtyard and as gardens on the exterior side. As a result, the transition between inside and outside remains gradual and flexible.

The house spans two levels: a ground floor and a roof terrace. Large folding windows, framed openings and privacy screens make it possible to adjust the degree of openness according to weather conditions and use.

Responding To Topography And Landscape

Instead of a single volume, the project consists of three separate buildings. Alongside the main circular house, the site includes a detached studio or guest room and a rectangular volume containing additional bedrooms and service spaces. This arrangement follows the natural topography and helps preserve existing vegetation.

For this reason, the buildings remain low and closely connected to the ground. The use of site-derived soil mixed with concrete further strengthens this relationship. Moreover, sourcing materials locally reduces transport and supports regional construction methods.

Passive Design And Energy Systems

House 720 Degrees integrates several passive design strategies. Natural cross-ventilation runs throughout the house, as most spaces open to two or three orientations. At the same time, the project collects rainwater on site and uses solar panels to generate electricity.

The solar system also provides hot water and supports hydronic radiant floor heating in the bedrooms. Together, these systems reduce reliance on external infrastructure while supporting indoor comfort.

Interior Elements And Long-Term Use

Most lighting and furniture elements were produced on site using local materials and craftsmanship. Therefore, interior components follow the same material logic as the architecture itself. The overall palette prioritises durability and weather resistance, which allows the building to function without paint, cladding or frequent upkeep. Over time, the house changes subtly alongside its natural surroundings.

Source: Fernanda Canales via v2com-newswire
Photos: Rafael Gamo / Camila Cossio