Casa Gemelos -- "House of Twins"

Artists' Home Two Blocks from Jardín

4 bedroom 4.5 Baths

$2,600 per week, $8,000 per month

This wonderful home was built with the eye of an artist from the natural stone materials that were found on the lot in the heart of the centro on Terraplen. The stonework is seen in the architecture of the home as well as the fountains, fireplaces and bathroom sinks and déor. Rock and tile blend to create a spacious and tranquil old world charm. The artist/owners installations and designs are seen throughout the house.

The six fireplaces and doors were found locally in haciendas and convents. The roof terraces have a commanding view of the sunset and the churches. and the mirador has other sunset vantage points. All the living areas connect with gardens and/or terraces for privacy.

The house flows from its two entrances off Terraplen St. It meanders from the main section comprising garage(with a passillo featuring a 400 year old church font) living room, kitchen, and lav into a patio where the centerpiece is a sculptural wall/ fountain/ dipping pool, made with colorful tiles, rocks and nichos, with hot and cold running water.

A few feet away is a 400 year old underground cantera bodega which is open with a railing around it, and can be illuminated at night. The patio leads to an open entertainment area with refrigerator and bar.

Two of the bedrooms, with full baths, are located on the second floor on opposite sides of a mirador with sunset views. Above the north bedroom is a roof garden/loggia with table and chairs and wonderful views.

Walk out to the garden from the patio and find the garden bedroom (#3), which has a 16 foot ceiling with skylights, a sunken tiled bath overlooking the garden, and a loft. The garden outside features bouganvillea and fruit trees, tables and chairs. Further on, a waterfall drops into a little pond with papyrus. There is an outdoor living room or loggia with bonko seating, entertainment area and bar. Night lighting is hidden in the nichos throughout the garden for a wonderful evening atmosphere.

The casita in the lower garden has the 4th bedroom , with bath and shower(on the second floor) with 2 patios and a roof garden overlooking the sunset and church. On the first floor is a colorful living room/dining room, kitchen, and bathroom. The artist/owner has created a ceramic fireplace, with a landscape relief above, as well as other items on the walls and in nichos. The casita has its own separate entrance from Terraplen Street.

There are plenty of intimate spaces to be alone, to read or to take a nap.

The four bedrooms are privately situated and versatile. There are two kings which can be split into twins, and two with queen beds(one of which has also a single bed). All bathrooms but one have baths as well as showers. The casita has a shower only. The home features 2 separate areas for indoor dining, as well as outdoor dining. There are 4 TV's, one in the living room, one in the 3rd garden bedroom, and 2 in the casita living room and bedroom. There are 2 separate telephone systems.

The home features 2 on staff, Eloisa and Olga, who cook, clean and manage the house. Each works 4 hours each weekday.

Casa Gemelos is a self contained environment', located between the main jardin and Juarez Park. It is best for 4 to 8 people who want separate spaces, but want to join together in the marvelous garden and outdoor areas. No smoking, no pets, and no children under 10.