BAAQ' inserts wooden modular system to 1960s apartment building in mexico city

BAAQ’ has converted ‘dr. atl 285’, an industrial building from the 1960s, into a residential property of 35 lofts in the neighborhood of santa maria la ribera, mexico city. the building was designed based on a reticular structure of reinforced concrete beams and columns, which created a series of diaphanous spaces without dividing walls. in order to maximize the potential of its spaces and meet the market’s needs, the architects have inserted a wooden modular system that can adjust to the different programs, sizes, and configurations.images by jaime navarro and arturo arrieta

BAAQ’ has renovated the building with the aim of making the best use of mexico city’s urban and architectural heritage while generating inclusive and connective spaces for members of its society. ‘the project aims to demonstrate the adaptability of architecture in the existing resources, the regenerative potential of the city, and the ability to generate sustainable projects nowadays,’ notes the local architecture studio. ‘all this to preserve the cultural and architectural heritage through the restoration of these constructions and projects, not only to maintain the presence of each neighborhood but also to reduce the environmental impact of real estate development.’

as part of the renovation, a configuration system was inserted that takes advantage of the geometry of the existing structure. the system comprises cubic elements of wood that generate a modular design which can be arranged according to each resident’s needs. according to the studio, the biggest challenge for ‘dr. atl 285’ was integrating its inhabitants within the social tissue of the neighborhood. outdoor spaces, such as patios and a rooftop terrace create common areas that encourage coexistence. additionally, the roof terrace is used as an urban garden, producing food for all users while promoting a social connection among all neighbors.

the original building’s use as an industrial facility implied a challenge for the design and location of circulations, which were placed on the backyard patio, using a permeable construction system that allows natural light to pass through. with a triangular geometry for balconies and the corridor system’s replica, it was possible to preserve the original façade profile without affecting the apartments’ lighting.

‘this vision and circumstances made the project evolve into a much more sustainable version of itself than was originally expected,’ explains BAAQ’. ‘a water treatment plant that helps save up to 45% of water, a tree garden on the ground floor and a vegetable garden on the roof, combined with the rest of the strategies involved, make “dr. atl 285” excel in terms of sustainability, turning it into an outstanding example among projects of its kind.’