Prefabricated modules and renewable materials define a flexible design system used to build three houses in a singular space. The project, located in Tepoztlán, is a versatile, efficient and, above all, environmentally friendly construction.
Prefabricated modules and renewable materials define a flexible design system used to build three houses in a singular space. The project, located in Tepoztlán, is a versatile, efficient and, above all, environmentally friendly construction.
The Mexican studio Amezcua has been commissioned to design three homes based on a revolutionary sustainable construction system: Kineki. Prefabricated modules and renewable materials mark this flexible design system that supports a freer lifestyle that connects with nature.
For this modular system, whose name comes from the Nahuatl term quinequi (“he wants”), sustainable, low-impact materials were used. The Kineki method offers a variety of possibilities, making it possible to build almost any type of space in less time. In addition, the budget of this method is tighter than that of traditional construction systems. Each module measures 3.6 meters in width/length/height. With them, other interconnectable modules are created, providing multiple alternatives for the construction of houses, premises or schools, among others.
Julio Amezcua, founder of the architectural firm, states that the Kineki system represents a paradigm shift. It is a living and dynamic construction method that honors wood, the only ecological, sustainable, reusable and recyclable material. This material stores carbon in its manufacture and allows architecture to merge with nature.
After six years of research and development, the Amezcua team has designed three prototype houses. These houses illustrate the possible results of this system, which is capable of transforming and evolving. In this way, the simplicity and functionality of the method is demonstrated, adapting to the client’s needs.
Each of the houses has a unique architecture and configuration of spaces; thanks to the versatile construction. Thus, Casa Pablo has 450 m2 and 28 modules, and Casa Julio has 150 m2 distributed over two floors. Thirdly, with 6 interconnected modules, Casa Japo has a single floor of 140 m2.
Regarding the interior design of the homes, for the bathrooms we have chosen the Málaga Acero (PORCELANOSA) ceramic tile with a glossy finish. The taps and accessories from the Round collection in matte black finish (Noken) are perfectly integrated into the room. The rustic and industrial style of the bathrooms is completed with the Alma Duo built-in bathtub and the Hotels ash furniture, also by Noken. This way, an intimate and quiet atmosphere is achieved.
The exterior of each house is made of plywood -a waterproofing material- and black clay tiles. At the same time, charred wood, obtained using the ancient Japanese technique of shou sugi ban, has been installed. This procedure consists of burning the surface of wooden boards to preserve their appearance against atmospheric agents. For example, humidity, mold and parasites. As for the interior finishes, plywood and wallpaper have been installed. These materials match the black volcanic stone and terrazzo floors.
The prefabricated modules used for this project, located on a private estate in Tepoztlán, were built with pine from the Mexican state of Durango.
Architecture: Amezcua
Photography: © Fernando Marroquín | Jaime Navarro | Beto Lanz