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Casa Cuarcita: The Story Behind an Award-Winning House

OMOS Arquitectos · local materials · 2024 Firenze finalist in three categories. The narrative of a project that breathes with the valley.

May 5, 2026

Casa Cuarcita: The Story Behind an Award-Winning House

Prices in this article are in Mexican pesos (MXN).

When Carina Fernández (OMOS Arquitectos) received lot 16 in Cantera Real, she knew the answer was not to impose architecture but to enter into dialogue with the place.

The Site

2,328 m² on a gentle slope toward the lake. Native vegetation: encinos, pirules, izotes. View of the Montemorelos valley to the south.

The Decision: Rammed Earth

Rammed earth — compacted earth — was chosen for three reasons: it naturally regulates indoor temperature (saves AC), ages well, and connects visually with the local geology. The house would be made of earth, literally.

Construction

  • Structural rammed-earth walls
  • Compressed earth blocks (BTC) in partition walls
  • Mesquite wood in floors

Awards

Finalist for the 2024 Firenze International Award in three categories:

1. Sustainable Architecture

2. Single-Family Residence

3. Interior Design

Living It

The house works as a weekend retreat, an Airbnb house (87 reviews · 4.92★), or a primary residence for anyone seeking nature near Monterrey.

Available for direct sale $10.7M MXN or Airbnb stay.

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