BAJA RESIDENCE, MEXICO || Where Contemporary Aesthetics Meets Ethnic Flair
The magic of our winter wonderland is just irresistible, but let’s admit that deep down in our hearts, we crave for the sun-kissed days where you can soak away all the hassles in the warm water.
As the U.S border reopens, Canadian snowbirds can finally flock south for some vitamin-sea and tanned skin. But, are you looking for something more than the same old Miami beach? This time, we will take you further south to Baja California Sur, Mexico, to feature its iconic jagged coastline where the Baja Residence by Walker Warner Architects is situated.
Featuring a sandy colour palette and natural materials, the architecture creates a connection with its surrounding natural terrain.
With respect for the cultural context, the architect injects the vacation home with bold, vibrant colours inspired by traditional Mexican courtyards and architectural forms typical of the region yet remains in beautiful harmony with the endless sea.
Baja Residence is the perfect space to come home to after having your love affair with the sea - you will be guided by the sound of streaming water that falls into a reflecting pool with floating pavers -- a reminder that you are far from water. The residence becomes an intimate hideaway for lovebirds at night as the pavers from underwater and the brass lanterns above emanate a glow to create a romantic ambience.
Vibrant colours are can be found in every corner of the beach house.
On the outside, your eyes are treated to a visual feast with different shades of blue; on the inside, you are surrounded by bright colours that instantly fill your getaway with an extra dose of joy and fun, while the culturally inspired patterns add an exotic and playful touch to the space.
To let the traditional elements pop even more, interior designer Ken Fulk used a neutral colour scheme with rich textures such as weathered teak, sandstone and stucco as a backdrop, which happens to complement the palette of the local sand.
Every embellishment has its own characteristics and establishes a vibrant and lively atmosphere without being over-the-top.
Children will enjoy spending time in this playful bunk room while adults are having a good chat outside.
Baja Residence is designed to blur the line between indoor and outdoor living with optimal visibility of the outdoors so residents can make the most of the picturesque coastline views - every part of the space from the master room, dressing room to outdoor shower featuring louvers are all oriented to capture the famed ocean views.
You will never be short of the postcard-worthy seaview, even when you are taking a shower.
It would be a pity not to add a whimsical twist to the villa with shadowing given that the residence is bathed in an abundance of natural light all day long. For example, the designer incorporated a pergola above the central staircase so that dramatic lights patterns can be projected onto the wall, whilst the concrete structure in the outdoor area is punctured by dramatic angled openings with the purpose to control sun exposures and experiment with light patterns.
The guest rooms are arranged around a central staircase.
The stacked float glass set in a bronze frame results in an underwater atmosphere as the light filtering through it.
It is also the precise detailing that differentiates Baja Residence from other beach houses, and indeed rather a must-visit destination in Baja beach. The beach bar features a vintage cruiser boat as if washed up onto the shore. Another photogenic spot has to be the central courtyard, where you can enjoy a good sip of wine, feel the cool ocean breeze, gaze at the giant open-mouthed lion fireplace or the endless sea views as you please.
The boat becomes a “Sandbar“ after a full retrofit with fridge and sink.
A casual lounge area encourages gatherings as a Palo Verde tree casts delicate shadows over the Sandstone pavers.
Not getting enough of the feeling of floating in the water? Take a dip in the infinity pool with a dark plaster finish, which is designed to reflect the colour of the sky tying it to the ocean beyond!
Where you are truly colliding with the sky.
PROJECT DETAILS
Project Name: Baja Residence
Location: Baja Califonia Sur, Mexico
Architect: Walker Warner Architects
Interior Design: Ken Fulk
Completion Date: 2020
Area: 1060m²
Photography: Douglas Friedman