One of the most satisfying things for an Architect must be when the client presents an opportunity to radically overhaul a building that has been left to decay, giving them the chance to inject much needed love and transform it into a something truly stunning. A great example of this would be MM House by Nicolas Schuybroek Architects, located in the leafy and affluent Chapultepec, Mexico City. The 1970’s brutalist, four storey building had been left in a desperate state until it caught the eye of a client who was in the market for an unusual project. Due to the fact that this particular dwelling has no garden and in no way conformed to the conventions of a ‘home’ would have been enough to scare away most potential buyers, however these factors were precisely what this purchaser was yearning for. It offered exciting opportunities, and we are so glad they took the plunge! This project is all about the interior, with a brave and bold approach of keeping things totally restrained. Clean lines and an ultra-minimalist palette produce a calming, yet agonisingly beautiful experience. Let’s start with that staircase: wow. An engineering marvel, the steel stair is both strong and elegant – two words that don’t very often go together. Wafer thin treads float on air in a way that almost defies possibilities. Despite its show-stopping power, this feature blends with the other design elements to form just one part of the story.
The largely monotone material selections include a polished concrete floor which runs throughout, along with a jaw-droppingly incredible arabescatto marble which features frequently. A warmth is introduced through the locally sourced parotta wood, adding a softness to what could have become quite a clinical environment. By keeping their selection simple and concise, the Architect creates a thread that unifies the building and forms a distinct identity. In order to bring in natural light, and create a sense of escape, the design incorporates two jungle-like gardens, one in the form of a ground floor courtyard and the other as a rooftop terrace. These ‘green pockets’ appear as a wild and unrestrained backdrop to the very orderly and precise interiors. Ultimately, the outcome is a serene, urban escape. An inward looking space that makes a bold statement whilst perfectly balancing character and style. The brilliantly matched furniture and styling is another element that makes this project an unforgettable masterpiece. A perfect little retreat from the bustle of city life.
