Harmonizing Heritage with Modernity: The Casa C Transformation

Reawakening a Century-Old Architectural Gem

The distinguished Casa C, constructed in 1913, stands as a testament to the French architectural elegance prevalent during Mexico's Porfiriato era. Max von Werz Architects, in collaboration with artist José León Cerrillo, embarked on an extensive restoration of this historic dwelling located in the heart of Mexico City's Roma Norte neighborhood. The exterior, adorned with intricate corbels, delicate garlands, and elaborate wrought-iron details, has been meticulously preserved and brought back to its original splendor. This careful preservation ensures that the building's historical character is not only maintained but celebrated, forming a captivating dialogue between its storied past and its re-envisioned interior.

Innovative Interior Adaptation: A Fusion of Eras

In tackling the interior of Casa C, the design team opted for a forward-thinking approach rather than a simple mimicry of past styles. Acknowledging that previous alterations had obscured the original finishes, they chose to peel back these layers, revealing the structure's inherent beauty. The strategy involved integrating modernist elements that resonate with the local tradition of skilled craftsmanship, thereby transforming formerly dated and confined spaces into airy, contemporary living areas. This thoughtful adaptation breathes new vitality into the residence, ensuring it meets current lifestyle demands while respecting its architectural lineage.

The Central Atrium: A Beacon of Light and Life

At the very heart of Casa C lies a magnificent three-story atrium, serving as the central axis around which the entire home revolves. This architectural marvel not only establishes a seamless connection between the various rooms but also acts as a conduit for natural light, drawn in through strategically placed roof windows. Peach-hued steel frames accentuate the glass French doors, allowing this abundant light to permeate deeply into adjacent spaces, enhancing their brightness and spaciousness. For enhanced privacy on the upper floors, fritted panels are ingeniously incorporated into the windows, striking a perfect balance between openness and seclusion.

Color and Craftsmanship: A Nod to Architectural Theory

The custom metalwork, including elegant balustrades and innovative skylights, is rendered in subtle, powdery tones. This choice is a deliberate homage to the sophisticated color theories pioneered by Le Corbusier, adding a layer of architectural depth and intellectual charm to the design. At the atrium's base, verdant green terrazzo forms a striking contrast, encircling a vibrant central planting area teeming with lush tropical flora. These botanical elements also ascend from wall-mounted planters on higher levels, further blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor, creating a serene and organic atmosphere.

Vertical Journeys: Connecting Spaces with Elegance

Casa C features two distinct staircases, each facilitating graceful vertical movement throughout the residence. One is positioned near the grand, ornate entrance at the front of the property, offering a stately ascent. The second, crafted from polished cast terrazzo, is discreetly tucked beside the atrium, providing a more intimate journey upwards. The architectural layout meticulously preserves the home's original spatial and functional configuration, while subtly introducing a winding architectural path towards the rear, inviting exploration and discovery within the reimagined dwelling.

Diverse Textures and Hues: A Symphony of Materials

On the initial floor, the deep blue-green tiles of the atrium balcony and the adjacent kitchen create a distinct visual separation from the elegant herringbone parquet flooring that extends through the living areas closer to the street. The kitchen itself is a study in utilitarian chic, featuring vivid yellow wall tiles, sleek metal cabinetry, a functional island, and open shelving that collectively fashion a clean, modern aesthetic. Ascending to the rooftop, the palette dramatically shifts to a rich, earthy red, courtesy of volcanic stone finishes used for planters and paving, offering a striking transition.

Rooftop Oasis: An Elevated Sanctuary

The roof garden of Casa C transforms into an elevated sanctuary, where the deep red of volcanic stone tiles defines the landscape of planters and pathways. This carefully curated space also incorporates cement tiles extending across the walls of service volumes, while precisely tone-matched metal grids intelligently delineate areas and artfully guide views across this serene rooftop haven. This thoughtful design ensures a cohesive aesthetic, extending the home's unique character skyward and offering a peaceful retreat above the bustling city.

A Luminous and Eclectic Abode

The entire home is a vibrant showcase for artist José León Cerrillo's diverse collection of sculptural furnishings and decorative items, each piece contributing to the residence's rich tapestry of style. Unique design elements, such as the carefully selected plant arrangements and distinctive circular windows, further imbue the space with a profound sense of individuality and charm. The ultimate result is an eclectic and deeply personal project that not only injects fresh vitality into a historically significant structure but also crafts a tranquil, brightly illuminated haven perfectly suited for its artistic inhabitant.