HEMAA architecture has given a 1950s house in mexico city a contemporary update while ensuring the preservation of its original mid-century character. the project involved the complete overhaul of the existing structure, which was originally designed by the renowned mexican architect augusto h. álvarez but had been subject to several modifications throughout the years. 

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images by rafael gamo

 

 

the design team decided to align the proposal to the base grid plan of this construction, which assembles the distribution of spaces around four structural axes every four meters. HEMAA architecture planned on a simple architectural volume facing the interior garden and, upon the client’s request, an appropriate façade towards the street that offers security and privacy.

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the intention is that of evoking the lines of mid-century modern architecture through materiality traits and the exaltation of order and structural elements. the layout of its spaces seeks to convey a sense of constant openness and connection with the exterior.

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its dark gray stucco façade emphasizes its tectonic and monolithic essence. on the other hand, light oak wood panels and modules in the interior gracefully marry the contrasts and neutralize the light, creating calm, fresh and organic spaces.

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a privacy sequence of the habitable spaces is determined throughout the different levels of the house. the access is located at ground level, right at the front. a chiaroscuro lighting effect welcomes guests into the house’s foyer that leads into the living and dining room areas, which are connected to the library and kitchen. four bedrooms and a family room are to be found on the second floor. the third level features an exterior terrace and a perfect space specifically designed for wellness-related activities.

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the final functionality of the project is in line with the arrangement of its architectural elements. such is clearly seen on its façade, it works as an x-ray of the building giving us a glimpse into the life within its structure which transforms as the day goes by, thanks to reflections and transparencies that smooth out and blur the lines between the interior and the exterior of the project.

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project info:

 

project name: sierra negra 27

location: mexico city, mexico

architecture firm: HEMAA architecture

design team: cristina alessi, ricard lostao, carlos núñez, alejandra tornel, josé miguel fainsod, santiago hernández matos

 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: lynne myers | designboom