Transforming a disused structure into a fiery, multifunctional hub.
The uses that once occupied this structure reveal traces of its past: it was originally built for an Italian restaurant and later used as an office. Today, the building is situated in a densely urbanized area of growing revaluation, where its proximity to main roads and its location adjacent to a park stand out as key contextual elements, framing the project's potential. Its development combines the formal and environmental value of the pre-existence, a materiality strongly linked to the client's identity and processes, as well as a configuration that balances the architectural program with the structure.
The building spans two levels and a semi-basement, covering an area of 870 m². The first floor, elevated one level, functions as the main entrance, showroom, and connecting node of the project, presenting a dynamic that evokes an experience similar to that of a home, focused on work, coexistence, and celebration. The private areas of the program (offices) are deployed on the top floor. In contrast, the social area is located on the first floor, which includes a showroom, store, demonstration kitchen, collaborative work area, patio, and parking. The basement is located on the
lower half level.
To define the approach to the project, a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) scan was carried out to generate an accurate representation of the structure and facilities. In this way, it was possible to conduct a thorough demolition process, utilizing the existing structure, piping, and openings to optimize the use of materials and economic resources.
As such, the materiality is a reinterpretation of Mexican cuisine, fire, and the processes of combustion and smelting. Wood and stone textures are integrated into the floors and walls, volcanic stone in the base of the structure (through gabion walls), clay and ceramics in various details, and metal panels on the facade. The building, initially conceived with an Italian influence, is transformed into a design that evokes the morphology of a barn, aligning with the brand's identity and seamlessly integrated with the
existing brick walls. Seen as a whole, the material and chromatic palette propose a visual approach differentiated from its immediate surroundings but congruent with the activities that take place inside the building.
Concerning the lighting, it has been designed to satisfy the functional requirements that the activities of the space demand. However, the decorative luminaires complement the warm atmosphere of the space. In a complementary manner and aligned with the purposes of resource optimization, some devices installed in this project were recovered from their previous location, establishing continuity in consideration of the pre-existing infrastructure.
Those familiar with the area might think that the building has always been there; however, the formal, material, and identity approach marks a new and longer life for it, designed for functionality and new ways of inhabiting it. While each level has its character, the dynamics of space, materiality, and the influence of fire on it are used as a common thread. As a result, the project begins with the contextual relationship, deep tonalities, and spatial quality, giving rise to a new atmosphere projected for the future.
Design & Construction Team: Alfredo Gonzalez, Diego Gonzalez, Jesus Quiroga, Diana Ocampo, Alejandro Arrieta, Fernanda Avila, Emilio Mejia,
Diego Garcia.
Structural Design: CRV - Ing. Ramirez Vargas
Reality Capture & General Contractor: Catorze
Finishes: Simroth
Millwork: Honeybear & De Albura y Duramen
Glazing: Alumex
Kitchen: Royal Kitchen
Industrial Kitchen: Torrey
HVAC: Komforto
Structural Steel and Façade: MKM Estructura
Photography:
Credits: Recording Architecture - Paco Alvarez
Contact: paco@recordingarchitecture.m
