Wabi-Sabi Architecture in La Casa del Sapo: A Humble, Timeless Retreat on the Oaxacan Coast

In this video, we explore the unique fusion of wabi-sabi design principles with the community-centered architecture of La Casa del Sapo, a remarkable home located on the stunning coast of Oaxaca, Mexico. Designed by Espacio 18 Arquitectura, this 130 m² house embraces the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, finding beauty in simplicity, imperfection, and the natural world.
Built as both a family home and a gathering space for the local community, La Casa del Sapo resonates with a deep respect for its environment and the people who inhabit it. The design reflects the raw, untouched beauty of the surrounding landscape, using natural, ecological materials and local construction techniques. Just as wabi-sabi celebrates the imperfect and the transient, this home captures the essence of time passing, with weathered stone, handcrafted elements, and flexible spaces that adapt to the ever-changing needs of its inhabitants.
This project, inspired by the land itself, is more than just a home-it's a place of gathering, learning, and growing together. With open, flowing spaces, a connection to the sea, and a focus on sustainable living, La Casa del Sapo embodies the timelessness of wabi-sabi while honoring the traditions and wisdom of the Zapotengo community.
Join us as we delve into the story behind La Casa del Sapo and discover how wabi-sabi principles create a timeless, humble, and soulful sanctuary on the Oaxacan coast.
Architects: Espacio 18 Arquitectura | www.archdaily....
Area: 130 m²
Year: 2021
Photographs: Onnis Luque, Fabian Martinez | www.archdaily.... , www.archdaily....
Manufacturers: Cemex, Interceramic, Tecnolite
Lead Architects: Carla Osorio Jimenez, Mario Alberto Ávila López, Sonia Morales, Andrea Rodriguez, Arantza Toledo
Interior Design: Mario Fernandez, Paulina chagoya, Espacio 18 Arquitectura
Builders : Victor Chagoya, Mario Fernandez, Paulina Chagoya, Freddy, Mariela, Candido, Jorge, Cruz Hernández, Jesús Hernández, Coco, Espacio 18 Arquitectura
Engineering: José Luis Contreras Pisson
Landscape: Fernandez, Paulina Chagoya
Carpentry : Mario Fernandez, Paulina chagoya, Espacio 18 Arquitectura
Country: Mexico

[@jeromec4982]

J'habiterai là-bas, je peindrai tous les murs en bleu, je mettrai du carrelage d'un bleu outre-mer pour les terrasses et des canisses d'une teinte éclatante ... comme une extension sur la mer.

[@lisadavis321]

I wish the exterior (at least) was board-formed concrete.😊

[@seguridadcorporativa2419]

So much money spent, to make it look poor....

[@DragonResistance]

Lol

[@rameshnatarajan9611]

🤭

[@TitoCanuso]

What is poor for you!?!?

[@seguridadcorporativa2419]

@@TitoCanuso Better if you answer ... because if you think that doesn´t look poor, it´d be intresting to read your opinion

[@seguridadcorporativa2419]

Even the name needs to be upgraded... La casa del Sapo... The house of the toad (frog) ... At least in Spanish it´s not nice to say.