Mexican studio Serrano Monjaraz Arquitectos has completed the Casa Tierra (Earth House). This contemporary home is located in Cumbres de Santa Fe, a 198 acre lot development in western Mexico City. Casa Tierra is an example of the rational use of all the resources and the total respect for the surrounding environment. In its design all the guidelines of the complex were followed and elements that characterize its urbanization, such as: natural stone, apparent concrete in grey, black and white shades were incorporated. The gardens around the house were integrated to the natural surroundings to create a complete atmosphere.
The construction system of Casa Tierra was done with Pressed Earth Blocks (PEB) made from soil of the same lot. This system was selected because it is aesthetically pleasing as well as cost and energy efficient, fire and pest resistant, virtually soundproof, durable and structurally sound. PEB provides complete architectural freedom and is made from non-toxic readily available natural raw material. Compared to other systems, it is more flexible and does not affect the width of the walls. The soil was pressed with 3% of concrete and 7% of lime, being 90% of the material needed for the construction obtained directly from the lot. A Pluvial collector system will be installed to make the most use of the rain water for the toilets and in combination with a treatment system the water collected will also be used to water the gardens and maintain the exterior areas. Water saving faucets, toilets and showers will complement the water saving program of the whole house
