Architectural Cases

In San José del Cabo, Mexico, the Dutch design studio Barde vanVoltt has brought to life a distinctive mixed-use building, the Estero development. This architectural endeavor seamlessly blends a community cafe, Gamba, at its ground level with residential units on the upper three floors. This project exemplifies a thoughtful integration of public and private spaces, creating a vibrant hub within the local landscape.

The architectural vision for Estero was meticulously crafted by Barde vanVoltt in close partnership with Arquipartners, the construction team. The design philosophy centers on a sculptural interplay of horizontal forms and vertical supports, softened by rounded balconies and deep eaves. This deliberate composition orchestrates a dynamic dance of light and shadow throughout the day, enhancing the building's aesthetic appeal and functionality.

A defining characteristic of the Estero development is its material palette, which draws heavily from local resources and influences. The extensive use of yellow-tinted chukum plaster, a traditional Mayan stucco, is central to the project's identity. According to Valérie Boerma, co-founder of Barde vanVoltt, this material beautifully reflects the desert light, imparting a serene and calming ambiance to the interiors. Complementing the chukum is rosa morada wood, a regional timber with a warmer, sun-kissed hue that organically connects the structure to the Cabo environment. These materials, when combined, evoke a sense of warmth and tranquility that aligns perfectly with the relaxed, outdoor-centric lifestyle of Baja California Sur.

The building's L-shaped configuration is not merely an aesthetic choice but a functional one, creating a sheltered courtyard that serves as an inviting outdoor seating area for the Gamba cafe. This charming nook is adorned with raised planters, integrated benches, and minimalist furnishings, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for patrons. The cafe's interior extends this open concept with pivoting glass panels that facilitate seamless access to the outdoors and ensure a continuous flow of fresh air. Inside, a central double-sided banquette, upholstered in black, divides the space into intimate dining areas. A dedicated bar, situated near the central kitchen, offers additional seating, while a cozy lounge area, complete with a surfboard rack, is discreetly positioned behind a wood and glass partition, reinforcing the local surf culture.

The design continuity extends to the residential units located on the upper floors. Each of the six residences occupies a distinct wing of the L-shaped structure, with the main staircase strategically placed at the intersection. The studio apartments facing the street feature private balconies, while the two-bedroom homes are set back, offering views of the tranquil courtyard. The interiors of these residences mirror the design language of the Gamba cafe, characterized by custom-designed furniture, gentle curves, and a thoughtfully curated, restrained material palette. This approach ensures a harmonious transition between the public and private realms of the building.

Adding to the residential amenities, the rooftop boasts two swimming pools – one private and one communal – offering residents a refreshing escape from the year-round warm climate. These elevated oases are surrounded by low planters, built-in seating, loungers, and dining areas, perfect for al-fresco meals and relaxation. This thoughtful inclusion reflects a broader trend in San José del Cabo, where design, hospitality, and community are increasingly interwoven. The Estero project, through its innovative design and community-focused approach, aims to contribute meaningfully to the neighborhood, fostering connections through shared experiences and daily rituals.

The Estero development stands as a testament to Barde vanVoltt's commitment to creating spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and deeply integrated into their surroundings. By prioritizing local materials and a design that encourages interaction, the project embodies a modern vision for mixed-use architecture that enriches the urban fabric and enhances the quality of life for its residents and the wider community.

Atelier Backlar's innovative Blue House project in the Azores represents a harmonious blend of historical preservation and modern sustainable design. By integrating recycled ocean plastic, locally sourced timber, and salvaged basalt stone, the studio has transformed a former whaler's tavern into an environmentally conscious and architecturally distinctive residence. This endeavor not only revives a historical structure but also champions circular economy principles and celebrates regional craftsmanship, creating a dwelling that resonates with both its past and its present.

Innovative Sustainable Construction and Material Use

Atelier Backlar has masterfully repurposed a historic whaler's tavern on São Miguel Island, transforming it into 'The Blue House' through an approach that emphasizes sustainability and adaptive reuse. This architectural achievement integrates recycled ocean plastic for exterior cladding and locally sourced timber for its structural insulated panels (SIPs), demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. The design preserves the original basalt stone walls while introducing modern, eco-friendly materials that enhance the building's resilience to the local climate and seismic activity. This project serves as a compelling example of how architects can honor historical contexts while pushing the boundaries of sustainable construction practices.

The construction of The Blue House highlights an innovative approach to material selection and structural design. Utilizing prefabricated structural insulated panels (SIPs) crafted from timber primarily sourced within the Azores, Atelier Backlar prioritized materials with low embodied carbon. This choice not only allowed for rapid assembly, with the timber structure erected in just ten days, but also ensured superior performance against the challenging Azorean weather and seismic conditions. The exterior features a distinctive blue cladding made from recycled ocean plastic, a decision that faced considerable logistical hurdles due to the typical scale of recycled plastic production. This material choice not only provides robust protection against the harsh coastal environment but also symbolically connects the house to its oceanic surroundings, blending seamlessly with the sky and sea while contrasting with the rugged basalt. The facade’s deep blue hue offers a subtle narrative, reflecting the studio’s dedication to transforming waste into a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and protective building element, thereby enriching the project's environmental and cultural significance.

Integrating History, Craftsmanship, and Nature in Design

The interior of The Blue House thoughtfully reflects a balance between historical elements, local craftsmanship, and the surrounding natural beauty. The design strategically positions windows and openings to maximize natural light and capture stunning views of the bay, reminiscent of historical whaler lookout shelters, while ensuring privacy. The limited material and color palette create a serene and uncluttered living space, complemented by custom-made furniture crafted by local artisans. A notable feature is an antique harpoon, repurposed from an instrument of whaling to a symbol of marine conservation, illustrating a profound shift in cultural values. This sensitive approach to design ensures that the house not only provides comfort but also tells a story of transformation and respect for its unique heritage.

Inside The Blue House, the design ethos continues to champion a minimalist aesthetic and a deep connection to its environment and history. A carefully curated palette of materials and colors defines a tranquil interior. The layout ingeniously addresses site constraints, orienting windows and openings to flood the spaces with natural light and frame picturesque views of the bay, a nod to the area's maritime past. Many furnishings, including dining tables, coffee tables, benches, and kitchen cabinetry, were custom-designed by Atelier Backlar and produced by local craftspeople, embodying a commitment to regional artistry and a warm, inviting atmosphere. A significant symbolic detail is an antique harpoon, displayed not as a tool of its original purpose, but as an art piece that signifies the island's evolution from whaling to conservation. The concrete slab floor, finished with microcement, extends into a built-in sofa, creating a fluid connection between architectural elements. The lightweight steel and timber staircase further enhances the flow of natural light, and the upstairs bedrooms continue the subdued palette, featuring splashes of blue and unique elements like willow lampshades woven using 17th-century Jesuit craft traditions and acacia door handles inspired by traditional Azorean locking systems. These details collectively weave a rich tapestry of history, local skill, and environmental consciousness into the fabric of the home.