San Miguel Residence
Los Senderos, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Miguel de Allende is a historic mining town surrounded by centuries-old ranches, defined by muros de piedra (stone walls) that traverse the undulating landscape. On the outskirts of the historic center lies Valle de los Senderos, a former horse ranch. The development’s master plan requires that homes facing the central nature preserve incorporate a continuous stone wall, echoing these historic muros.

The house resides behind this wall, engaging the site through a series of grottos carved into the adjoining hillside. Passive cooling is provided by gardens that circulate air up through the house, drawn by solar heating in the glass studio above. Designed for a retired couple who host their extended family for frequent Mexican holidays, the home features private, flexible rooms; libraries and studios can double as bedrooms while remaining distinct from the gathering areas.

Design Principal: Prescott Muir
Project Architect: Ana Benitez