Casapueblo

Casapueblo is a whitewashed sculptural building near Punta Ballena in Maldonado Department, Uruguay, designed and built by artist Carlos Páez Vilaró as a combined home, studio, museum and guesthouse. The complex is well known for its irregular, organic architecture and seaside terraces.

Terraced viewpoints, galleries and a small hotel are key attractions, with the site displaying the artist’s work and offering panoramic views over the Río de la Plata and the Atlantic horizon. The terraces and café are especially popular at sunset.

Construction and alterations were led by Páez Vilaró from the mid-20th century onward, with the building evolving as his studio and later opening parts to the public as a museum and lodging. The site remains closely associated with his artistic legacy and houses exhibitions and archives.

Casapueblo stands on the Punta Ballena peninsula in Maldonado Department, near Punta del Este on Uruguay’s southern coast, perched above coastal cliffs with sea views that attract day visitors and overnight guests.

• Artist and function: Designed and constructed by artist Carlos Páez Vilaró over several decades, the complex functions as a museum, gallery, hotel and cultural venue.
• Best time to visit: The terraces and viewing platforms are widely used for sunset viewing; many visitors time visits for late afternoon to watch the sunset over the Río de la Plata estuary.

What to See #

• Museo Casapueblo: A museum-gallery space dedicated to the life and work of Carlos Páez Vilaró, containing paintings, sculptures and personal archives.
• Hotel and terraces: Guest rooms and terraces incorporated into the complex provide overnight stays and panoramic sunset views over the sea.