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Backyard elevation

The large pool—looking into the fitness area—is used by Misty to train her clients.

The stunning midcentury home is sited around a pool—a 2005 addition that looks like it has always been there.

The pool was there previously but was "quite disconnected from the house," says Hansford. They were able to reuse it in the new design.

The enclosed central patios are great for enjoying warm weather and protecting owners from the winds.

The ability to open the living and dining area to the pool and terrace makes the home ideal for entertaining.

In the evenings, the refurbished, white sawtooth roof acquires a particularly otherworldly feel.

The skylight above the pool is an odd shape, one Corral describes as a "rectongulus." It’s this spot, in a home full of beautiful moments, that she likes best. Above you is the sky. The rammed earth surrounds you, the view is in front of you, and the shadows of the trellis dance on the gentle waves of the turquoise pool. "It’s the place where you have all the connections," says Corral.

Tzalam wood, chosen for its resilience to Valle de Bravo's rainy climate, is used throughout the home to open each room to the outdoors.

Hunter's son and daughter enjoy a day at the pool. "When my kids saw the pictures they were jealous!

"The main spaces of the home are flooded with natural light because the homeowners wanted to capture the views of the mountain and have seamless indoor-outdoor living,

Rear facade, with maximum glazing and balconies to maximize daylight, views and social interaction.

The excavated material has been used to shape the property's exterior features.

While not connected to the house's irrigation, the saltwater pool has its own solar-powered saline pump and cleansing system.

Castaños House by Arch. Ekaterina Kunzel & Arch. María Belén García Bottazzini

Honnold & Rex Architectural Research House