Escobedo Soliz Studio has completed a remarkable residential project called Finlandia House, a thoughtfully designed retreat for a retired Finnish woman in the historic mining settlement of San Pedro de los Pozos, located in the Sierra Gorda region of Guanajuato, Mexico. The 100-square-meter residence, completed in 2025, exemplifies how contemporary architecture can harmoniously blend with both natural landscapes and historical contexts.
The house occupies an irregularly shaped plot that is densely populated with native vegetation, including pirul trees, organ cacti, mesquite, and prickly pears. Perhaps most notably, the site is marked by the presence of an 18th-century mining shaft, which adds a layer of historical significance to the project. This unique combination of natural and historical elements created both opportunities and challenges for the design team led by architects Pavel Escobedo and Andrés Soliz.
Conceived as a discreet and contemplative refuge, the design philosophy behind Finlandia House emphasizes integration with the surrounding environment rather than dominance over it. The architectural approach respects the existing topography and vegetation while creating a serene living space that allows the retired resident to fully appreciate the desert landscape and mining heritage of the area.
The project team included a diverse group of professionals who contributed to various aspects of the design and construction. The design team comprised Diana Rico, Alberto Calderón, Gabriel Angélico, and Alexa Resendíz, working under the leadership of the founding architects. General contractor Alma Hernández Covarrubias oversaw the construction process, while interior design was handled by Christel Blomqvist, ensuring a cohesive vision from architecture to interior spaces.
Technical aspects of the project were managed by specialized consultants, with structural engineering provided by Adalberto Estrada and general engineering and consulting services handled by Sergio Ayala. The construction utilized materials from Origen Madera, among other manufacturers, demonstrating a commitment to quality materials and craftsmanship throughout the build process.
The architectural photography, captured by Ariadna Polo Fotografía, showcases how the completed residence successfully achieves its goal of being a contemplative sanctuary. The images reveal a structure that appears to emerge naturally from the desert landscape while providing modern comfort and functionality for its inhabitant.
Finlandia House represents a successful example of how contemporary Mexican architecture can respond sensitively to unique site conditions, historical context, and specific client needs. The project demonstrates Escobedo Soliz Studio's ability to create architecture that is both deeply rooted in place and thoroughly modern in its approach to desert living.
