Casa Lluvia Blanca is a modern, three-story estate nestled into the quiet middle of a block in the historic center of the beautiful colonial town of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Designed by House + House Architects for a couple with an innate international style (she’s from San Francisco, he’s from Denmark, and they live in London), the clients wished for a design with three main influences, Moroccan and traditional Mexican mixed with a surprising dose of modern. This 4,500 square foot courtyard home is accessed through lush gardens with trickling fountains and a luminous lap-pool. The living, dining, kitchen, library and master suite on the ground floor open onto a series of plant filled patios that flood each space with light that changes throughout the day.

Elliptical domes and hewn wooden beams sculpt the ceilings, reflecting soft colors onto curving walls. A long, narrow stairway wrapped with windows and skylights is a serene connection to the second floor ”Moroccan’ inspired suite with domed fireplace and hand-sculpted tub, and “French Country” inspired suite with a sunny balcony and oval shower. A curving bridge flies through the high living room with sparkling glass railings and overlooks onto sensuously shaped built in sofas. At the third floor windows wrap every space with balconies, light and views, linking indoors to the distant mountains, the morning sun and the bubbling jacuzzi. At the rooftop terrace domes and chimneys join the cozy seating for intimate gatherings.

Since the building is so high and narrow, three courtyards were sprinkled throughout the layout of the home to let natural light into the interior. The plot the couple picked out is an odd shape, a combination of three backyard areas.

The floors in this main living space are a beautiful travertine marble acid-washed to open the crystals. From the dome to the railings and curved built-ins, it’s clear circular shapes are a common theme in this house.

Local handmade tile covers the kitchen backsplash, countertops and floor. The cupboards, also done by hand, are made of alder.

The master suite clearly emanates the bright colors and bold textiles of Morocco, one of the clients’ favorite places to travel. A small fireplace and private outdoor area complete the exotic ambiance of the room.

Like everything else in the house, the beautiful bathtub in the master bath was made by hand. The architects constructed a steel frame for the large tub, and poured in concrete with a smooth finish.

The second floor of the house contains the two other main suites. Each suite contains a bedroom, bathroom and outdoor area.

A small kitchenette allow the clients to make a quick snack or meal upstairs.

The studio and workroom on the third floor of the house has a much more modern vibe than the rest of the home. Since the husband is from Copenhagen, having a section devoted to his love of Scandinavian-like design was important to the clients.

An outdoor area outside the third floor has a stairway to a rooftop hot tub, also made by hand.

Photos: Courtesy of House + House Architects