Translucent ‘Cactaceae’ Shelter is Inspired by the Geometry of Flowering Cacti

Cactaceae is a small <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/geometric-shelter-island-pavilion-brings-modernist-bursts-of-color-to-long-island/" target="_blank">geometric shelter</a> located at one of the world's most important sites when it comes to cacti diversity - the Tropic of Cancer desert in Mexico. Architect <a href="http://www.fubiz.net/2013/11/14/geometric-shelter-inspired-by-a-cactus/" target="_blank">Iván Juárez of X-Studio</a> was inspired by the geometry of cactus stems and thorns when he created the transparent shelter, which is fabricated using traditional craftsmanship techniques.

Muted lace-like panels keep the heat from the sun from penetrating the inside of the shelter while framing the views of the magnificent landscape.

The <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/site-specific-art-installation/" target="_blank">geometric structure</a> is made from triangular panes that combine rigid forms with delicate, meticulously <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/charles-spurrier-creates-patterned-3d-paintings-from-thousands-of-pieces-of-reclaimed-plastic/charles-spurrier-recycled-paintings-1/" target="_blank">patterned</a> surfaces.

To create the installation Architect Iván Juárez worked with Araceli Gonzales and Roberto Elva Garate, whoa re craftsmen from the neighboring San Sebatián area.

The shelter's appearance changes throughout the day depending on the interplay between light and shadow, <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tiny-mirrored-cabin-is-a-stunning-reflection-of-the-ontario-landscape/" target="_blank">reflections</a> and hues.

It creates a visual dialogue with its surroundings and shows all of the visual and ambient effects that nature has on architecture.

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