casa cayo
2025- A.I.A. Honorable Mention for New Built Work
This fully self-sufficient residence, independent in both energy and water, is located on a cay in the Caribbean Sea, south of Salinas, Puerto Rico. Inspired by the island’s historic agricultural haciendas, the design reinterprets traditional elements such as a wraparound porch of the main volume surrounding the public areas, high ceilings, and a light, transparent second level that contrasts with the visually heavier first-level volumes.
The house occupies the footprint of a previous structure and pool, enhanced by an arched bridge-pool that flanks the coastline, elevating the infinity pool while connecting the second level to an eastern terrace with two gazebos. This configuration gives the illusion of swimming over the sea while preserving airflow, views, and ecological flow at ground level. The bridge also helps define a semi-open central patio, framed by the house, pool, preexisting perimeter wall, photovoltaic canopies, and natural elements, providing shade and protection to the first level.
The program includes the entry, foyer, and three bedrooms on the first floor, with living areas, kitchen, dining, and a small office on the second floor, along with the porch, deck, gazebos, and infinity pool. Dark exterior colors were selected to harmonize visually with the cay, echoing the trunks of existing trees, none of which were removed during construction.
Sustainability strategies include hurricane-resistant, thermally insulated materials, reduction of light pollution, rainwater harvesting, and off-grid energy systems. Renewable energy is generated via photovoltaic panels and vertical-axis wind turbines, which also produce power at night. Due to the shallow surrounding waters and ecological sensitivity of the site, construction was carried out entirely without heavy machinery. Primary materials include shotcrete over prefabricated polystyrene panels with high thermal performance, wood, flat ceramic roof tiles, stone and ceramic flooring, and hurricane- and salt-resistant windows.
