Cuenca, Cuenca, Azuay

This award-winning architectural mountain masterpiece, 20 minutes outside of Cuenca, spans nearly 2 acres (1.8) and combines striking contemporary architecture with one of the region's most peaceful natural settings. This exceptional 4,300 sq. ft. home offers the serenity of open space, mature trees, mountain views, and complete privacy - with modern amenities, 4 bedrooms, and 2.5 baths. This stunning, open concept hideaway has been featured in numerous architectural and design magazines, as well as in the book "Casas XXI". Upgrades and amenities are found at every turn. Constructed of stone, concrete, and steel, the house is earthquake-resistant, features thermal insulation and infrared heating beneath the floors, and fits seamlessly into its gorgeous mountainside backdrop. Double-pained windows, eastern exposures in all the bedrooms, bamboo rain showers, skylights, and solar lights, plus meticulously placed outdoor security and accent lights, make this home virtually glow day or night. Natural, spring-fed fresh water from the mountain is further purified through a 4-stage filtration system on the property, ensuring pure, delicious water with no chemicals or chlorine. An excellent septic tank that does not pollute the soil, garbage collection right outside your private gate, a 2-car covered garage, Fiber Optic high-speed Internet, and city electricity are all included. One of the property's most memorable spaces is the covered outdoor entertaining pavilion, complete with a professional grilling station, dining area, integrated sound system, and spectacular mountain views. It is easy to imagine long lunches with friends, holiday gatherings with extended family, or quiet evenings listening to the wind move through the trees as the lights of Cuenca glow in the distance. The home was also designed with flexibility in mind. In addition to the primary living quarters, there is a separate guest suite/apartment with its own living space, kitchenette, and bath, which includes a steam shower - ideal for extended family, visiting guests, live-in help, or caretakers. The space would also make an excellent private office or creative studio. The expansive grounds offer room for future expansion should a new owner wish to add additional casitas, a spa, or gardens. The house itself is on 3,000 sq. meters of land, with two expansive flat areas for play or expansion. The surrounding property - consisting of a second deeded lot comprised of mountain and forest land, is 4640 sq. meters. The land includes mature apple and lemon trees, plus fig and peach trees. Inside, the main living spaces unfold in an open, flowing design where oversized windows and sliding glass doors dissolve the boundary between indoors and outdoors. Sunlight pours across stone floors while the surrounding mountains and greenery become a living backdrop to everyday life. The gourmet kitchen, with its oversized geometric island, granite surfaces, premium appliances, and elegant dark cabinetry, opens naturally into the dining and living areas, making the home ideal for both intimate family living and large-scale entertaining. The kitchen also includes a water filtration system. The bedroom wing feels private and peaceful, with warm wood tones, extensive built-ins, and calming natural views throughout. A long office corridor overlooking the exterior terraces creates an inspiring work-from- home environment that feels connected to nature without sacrificing comfort or modern convenience. And while the setting feels wonderfully secluded, security and peace of mind were clearly part of the property's vision. The home is located within a private gate and includes perimeter fencing, security cameras, and an alarm system, allowing owners to enjoy country living with confidence and ease. It is the kind of property where you feel away from everything - but never vulnerable or isolated. A trusted and known caretaker, gardener, and handyman lives nearby who can also help with everyday ch