Casa Barrio Pozas, San Sebastián, Puerto Rico

Casa Barrio Pozas is located on the slope of a mogote, facing east to take advantage of the prevailing breezes and views over the San Sebastián valley. Landscape and climate inform every design decision.

The house adapts to the steep terrain through two levels and a floor plan articulated by the staircase, which acts as a hinge, allowing the building to respond simultaneously to the topography, views, and natural ventilation. To the west, an enclosed façade of ornamental concrete blocks provides protection from the sun and ensures privacy, while to the east, large windows and balconies open the house toward the landscape.

Sloped roofs, generous overhangs, and aluminum louvers reinterpret elements of tropical architecture, controlling sunlight, rain, and ventilation while providing protection during hurricanes. The structure combines reinforced concrete, steel, and wood. On the partially below-grade level, an English courtyard separates the house from the retaining wall, preventing moisture, promoting cross-ventilation, and introducing natural light while creating a comfortable microclimate.