Casa Cerrada

"Cerrada Reforma 108" is a residential project by DCPP Arquitectos, located in San Ángel, in the south of Mexico City. The plot is rectangular and its dimensions are 10 x 20 metres. The concept of the house parted from the idea of positive and negative space, seeking to create a game of counterparts to define and virtually contain the exterior space. The negative space is conceived as the open space or public area, which is contained but not occupied, it has exactly the same dimensions but is not built, creating a dialogue between this counterparts.

A high-walled courtyard runs parallel to the long black house. The plot is divided into two narrow rectangles, with the house on one side and the courtyard on the other. Inside the courtyard is a wooden screen which stands out against the surrounding black walls. Glazing on the courtyard side of the house provides views to the outdoor space from the kitchen, living area and upstairs bedroom. Stairs at the far end of the house lead up to a bedroom and extra living area on the middle floor. ^[1]

[1] Ref. http://www.dezeen.com/2012/08/24/casa-cerrada-reforma-108-by-dcpp-arquitectos/