Project Data:

Completion Date:     9/1/2023

Square Footage:      15845

Building Use:           Single Family Residence

Project Description:

Dos Vistas is a private residence located in Cabo San Lucas, MX in the Planned Community known as the Maravilla. The property features views of the Santa Maria Bay/ Montage Los Cabos at the front and dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and coastline at the rear; hence the name “Dos Vistas” or two views. The home was designed as a private family retreat enjoying beach club access, restaurants, and amenities of the Montage resort. The programming supports multi-generational living in the form of large family gatherings with a focus on indoor/outdoor living and entertaining; consisting of approximately 12,600 square feet of living space (11 bedrooms/12.5 baths) and 3,250 s.f. garage/mech.
Located on the second street above the ocean front, the home was carefully designed to maximize views throughout the property. The context of the neighborhood and surrounding developments alongside the view potential were essential factors in the layout and massing of the home. Working with the local contractor Cabo Development Group, a platform was constructed on the existing dirt pad alongside drone footage and photography that helped determine the optimal main level floor elevation. Once the view corridor was established, the home was arranged around a central entry courtyard and was layered with landscape and building to create privacy and framed views. For example, the entrance to the courtyard is shaped by an arched stone wall with steel entry gate. This was designed to provide privacy and screen views of adjacent developments while maintaining views towards Bahia Santa Maria. The resort-style pool at the pool was designed at a height and size that would obscure the rooflines of the homes below and provide water-to-water views.
The program of the home was divided into groupings based on the multi-generational use. This provides separate wings of the home that support Jr. Primary Suites with adjacent kid’s rooms so that each family has their own space to accommodate multiple families comfortably. At its core, the shared living space is an open concept design that can easily combine the indoor and outdoor entertaining with floor-to-ceiling pocket doors and expansive views in both directions. The landscape design incorporates native feature trees as an important connection to the native environment. As a cohesive narrative, the feature trees are located within the steps of the entrance, the courtyard, and within the swimming pool.
The architecture of the home was inspired by its place, while the clients wanted to maximize views and incorporate modern design elements it was important that the home respond to its context in Mexico. Traditional materials such as smooth-troweled plaster, spanish tile roofing, natural stone, and wood timber were locally sourced. This paired with clean modern lines, contemporary detailing, and steel doors and windows elevated the home to be relevant today while embodying the timeless qualities of a Mexican Hacienda. Passive shading was provided with unique trellis elements that cool the home while providing a delicate silhouette similar to the steel doors and windows.

Design for Integration, Design for Energy, Design for Well-being, Design for Resources, Design for Discovery 

Integration: Dos Vistas is meticulously designed to integrate with its surroundings in Cabo San Lucas, MX. Positioned to capture stunning views of Santa Maria Bay at the front and the Pacific Ocean at the rear, the home capitalizes on its location. The layout and massing, influenced by the context of the neighborhood and surrounding developments, utilize a central entry courtyard layered with landscape and building elements to ensure privacy while framing scenic vistas. An arched stone wall with a steel entry gate enhances this integration, shielding views of nearby developments and preserving the picturesque outlook.
Well-being: The design prioritizes well-being through its emphasis on indoor/outdoor living, fostering a strong connection with nature. The open-concept shared living space, featuring floor-to-ceiling pocket doors, allows for seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor areas, promoting relaxation and social interaction. Native feature trees strategically placed within the entrance steps, courtyard, and swimming pool areas further enhance the residents' connection to the natural environment, creating serene and rejuvenating spaces.
Energy: Energy efficiency is achieved through passive shading provided by unique trellis elements, which help cool the home while adding a delicate silhouette that complements the steel doors and windows. The design also maximizes natural light and ventilation, reducing the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning, thus promoting energy conservation.
Resources: The use of locally sourced materials such as natural stone, smooth-troweled plaster, Spanish tile roofing, and wood timber demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and regional authenticity. These materials not only ground the home in its Mexican context but also minimize the environmental impact associated with transportation. This thoughtful selection supports both aesthetic coherence and ecological responsibility.
Discovery: Dos Vistas encourages discovery through its thoughtfully planned spaces and design elements that reveal themselves gradually. The entrance courtyard, shaped by an arched stone wall, sets the stage for exploration, while the resort-style pool offers water-to-water views that entice residents to explore the surrounding landscape. The layered landscape and building design invite movement through the property, creating moments of surprise and delight.

Completion Date:     9/1/2023

Square Footage:      15845

Building Use:           Single Family Residence

Location:                 Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Christopher Brandon

Cabo Development Group

Studio McGee (interior designer)

Brandon Architects