Given the growing tourist demand in Baja California, the client identified the opportunity to create a hospitality development in a region that boasts beautiful panoramic views but whose tourism infrastructure remains underdeveloped.
Our visionary client requested an initial program of six suites and amenities, to be completed as quickly as possible in order to gain an edge over potential competitors. The guiding concept was to design modular units that, if this initial phase proved successful, could either be expanded with additional rooms or even replicated in other locations.
Faced with this challenge, we evaluated traditional construction systems. However, we concluded that the fast-to-assemble options were very expensive, while the more economical alternatives required significant increase in labor to meet desired timelines. It was then that we approached the specialists at USG, who, as experts in lightweight construction systems, recommended one of their latest solutions, USG STRUCTO-STEEL®.
This proprietary USG LATAM system, based on structural metal frames, met the client's requirements perfectly. Since the structure is 10 times lighter than traditional systems, a more modest foundation was required. Additionally, the possibility of off-site prefabrication of its custom components, with high precision in cuts and perforations, enables a quick and clean on-site assembly, saving up to 50% in labor. Beyond these advantages, the system also provides excellent thermal and acoustic performance, and is well-suited to withstand coastal climates.
Once the client felt reassured that his greatest concern was resolved, we turned to the more idyllic aspects of the development. Studying the topography and the wonderful views, we carefully positioned each unit to minimize visual obstructions.
A strong sense of place was central to the design. The material palette was selected to complement the soft tones of the desert landscape with earthy hues and native vegetation.
We emphasized a central corridor that, in addition to framing the view of the sea, becomes the heart of the complex, culminating in the amenities volume located at the lower end of the property. Reminiscent of Mediterranean villas or classic New York brownstones, we placed the staircases leading to each unit’s terrace along this corridor. These transitional spaces encourage spontaneous and casual interaction among guests.
Regarding the interior spaces, the side walls were designed not only as structural elements but also to reduce solar gain. Meanwhile, the front part of the rooms features a small terrace; by opening the sliding doors, the boundary between indoors and outdoors dissolves seamlessly.
Through our firm's holistic design philosophy, we achieved a balance between the client's specific requirements, the project’s symbiosis with the character of the site, and the fostering of social interaction among users, resulting in project that is both profitable and human-centered.