Design Your Vision

Three ways to inhabit where the desert
meets the sea.

Your lot at MAREA is a blank canvas. Within our community design guidelines, three architectural archetypes work especially well in this landscape — each offering a different relationship with light, wind, ocean, and silence.

Concept Studies

Built for the climate, the light, and the way you'll actually live.

San Felipe's coastal-desert climate rewards thoughtful design: thick walls that hold cool, generous overhangs against the afternoon sun, openings oriented toward the prevailing breeze from the Sea of Cortez. The three concepts below are starting points — adaptable to your lot, your budget, and how you'll spend your time here.

Concept 01

The Palapa

A traditional Mexican coastal structure: thatched palm-frond roof on wooden posts, mostly open to the air. Think hammock at noon, candlelit dinner under the stars, breeze from the Sea of Cortez moving through the space. Pair with a small enclosed casita for sleeping and bathroom, and the palapa becomes the living room of your lot.

Approx. footprint
40–80 m²
Build cost (estimate)
$25,000–$60,000
Materials
Palm thatch, hardwood posts
Climate fit
Excellent — natural ventilation

Best for: weekenders who want maximum outdoor living and minimum walls. Lower upfront cost, fastest to build.

Concept 02

The Geodesic Dome

A self-supporting hemispheric structure with strong wind resistance and excellent thermal performance — well-matched to the desert. Surprisingly spacious inside thanks to its curved geometry. Can be configured with one or two interior levels, large operable windows toward the sea, and a small terrace stepping down to the lot.

Approx. footprint
60–110 m²
Build cost (estimate)
$60,000–$130,000
Materials
Steel frame, insulated panels
Climate fit
Excellent — high wind tolerance

Best for: design-forward buyers who want something distinctive, energy-efficient, and quick to assemble (60–90 days from kit).

Concept 03

The A-Frame

A steeply-pitched triangular structure with a small footprint and surprising vertical volume. Two interior levels — open living below, sleeping loft above — with a wall of glass facing the Sea of Cortez. Modest envelope, high impact. Pairs beautifully with a wraparound deck for outdoor dining.

Approx. footprint
50–90 m²
Build cost (estimate)
$45,000–$110,000
Materials
Wood frame, metal roof
Climate fit
Very good — passive cooling

Best for: small families or couples who want a true second-home cabin feel with strong indoor-outdoor flow.

Your next step

Reserve a lot today, start designing tomorrow.

Hold a specific lot for 30 days with a $700 fully-refundable Hold Fee while you and your architect plan your vision.

See lot inventory →