The Barde vanVoltt office carried out a renovation of a 300 square meter penthouse located in the Escandón neighborhood of Mexico City. This project aims to reinterpret brutalist architecture, focusing on elements such as warmth, craftsmanship, and residential comfort.
Conceived for two creative individuals, the work transformed an existing penthouse apartment into a tranquil sanctuary, situated above one of the city's busiest districts.
Instead of presenting brutalism as something grandiose or monumental, the project explores its more discreet and intimate characteristics. The original concrete structure served as a robust architectural base but was softened by the use of natural materials, carefully controlled lighting, and tactile finishes. The design establishes a constant dialogue between solidity and delicacy, resulting in spaces that evoke both stability and coziness.
One of the biggest challenges faced was reorganizing a fragmented floor plan to create a functional home for modern life while maintaining the identity of the pre-existing building. The spatial arrangement adopted an 'H' shape, which allowed for the inclusion of open patios and terraces between the different living areas. This configuration facilitates the penetration of sunlight and natural ventilation into the interior, reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Areas designated for public functions were allocated on the lower floor, while the upper floor houses the more private bedrooms. This latter level also offers direct access to the rooftop terrace, the outdoor kitchen area, the gym, and the plunge pool.
The choice of materials constituted the central architectural language of the project. Exposed concrete is harmonized with textured lime plaster, natural stones, walnut wood, and custom furniture made by local artisans. Each component was selected for its ability to age with distinction and for highlighting texture over any type of ornamentation. The restricted color palette allows natural light and shadows to shape the atmosphere throughout the day.
The realization of this project depended on close collaboration with Mexican builders and artisans, with special attention given to personalized details and the smooth integration between architectural elements, carpentry, and furniture. The design does not hide the construction; it celebrates the authenticity of the materials and the precision of artisanal work.
In summary, the project illustrates how brutalist architecture can be experienced in a warm, welcoming, and deeply personal way. Through meticulous spatial planning, the use of natural inputs, and close partnership with local creators, the proposal presents a contemporary vision of brutalism that places the human experience first, creating a sanctuary of tranquility amidst the dynamic urban landscape of Mexico City.
The Casa em Harmonia project, developed by Golchin Studio, is located in the dense neighborhood of Dolatabad in the city of Isfahan. This residence was conceived as a tranquil and introspective refuge, capable of harmonizing the lives of several generations within an extremely diverse urban context.
The plot, which measures 268 square meters and is classified as an urban infill lot, presents specific limitations on its sides. To the west, there is a very busy automotive oil change workshop; to the east, there is a mixed-use building combining commercial and residential activities; to the north, an eight-meter-wide street runs that provides direct access to a primary school; and to the south, it borders a narrow four-meter residential alley.
The commission was made by a family consisting of four members. The requested architectural program required an adaptable spatial arrangement, capable of accommodating grandparents during visits, while ensuring high thermal comfort, acoustic insulation, and abundant natural light, despite being surrounded by industrial, commercial, and educational functions.
With the growing global recognition of the relevance of urban environments designed to be walked through, the «hatmachida» concept emerges as an efficient urban tactic. This project consists of inserting a small-scale architectural intervention, measuring 22.7 m², located at the intersection of a prominent avenue, functioning as a stimulus for public activity.
By intentionally establishing a discreet yet dynamic presence within the existing urban structure, the project aims to trigger progressive impacts in adjacent areas. This architectural approach, which develops through constant use over time, challenges traditional methods of urban restructuring and suggests an alternative paradigm for city development in the coming years.
