'pilgram route shelter' by luis aldrete architects, mexico
images courtesy of luis aldrete architects / © albergue estanzuela


mexican studio luis aldrete has completed 'pilgrim route shelter', a project that designboom
originally reported on when it was still in its conceptual stages. situated along a pilgrimage
route that extends 117 kilometers through jalisco, mexico, the design aims to provide temporary
shelter to thousands of pilgrims who embark on the mission during holy week each year.



the facade alternates between closed and porous surfaces


the adaptive structures which sit empty for most of the year remain simple in their design,
intended as masses that will age and eventually become part of the natural landscape.
open, lattice-like surfaces were conceived to accommodate vines and untamed plants that
will reach up from the ground and consume the dwelling over time.



approach


constructed out of adobe colored clay bricks - a material prominent in the region - the dwellings
are designed as basic and easily manipulated modules that make the project capable of adaptation
and growth.



entryways



(left) overall structure
(right) interior



interior



view of one of the shelters along the 117 kilometer pilgrimage route



site plan



axonometric drawings