Old bricks for inside and outside – A loft in Mexico City

Spacious, airy rooms, huge windows, high ceilings and steel beams: a loft is the perfect home for many who need a lot of space and appreciate urban charm. Design-oriented people and artists in particular dream of the industrial style. In Mexico City in 2015, the architects from ARCO Arquitectira Contemporanea renovated a former factory building and converted it into a modern apartment. Much of the character of the building, which was built in the 80s, was retained. Old bricks and steel elements, which are considered a characteristic style element for lofts, are effectively combined with wood both outside and inside. In order to structure the spacious living space, galleries were built into different levels.

After the renovation and the new structuring of the areas, the residents have a total of 1000 square meters of space available, of which around 600 square meters are suitable for living. The building is located in the middle of the property and is very strongly connected to the outside area. A beautiful oneOutdoor lounge with fire pitand seating conjures up a cozy atmosphere in the garden. There is also a covered dining area and terrace on the second living level.

Elements made of black powder-coated steel and old bricks are stylishly combined in the design of the house facade. The same materials also dominate the interior, where the wooden floor and other wooden details conjure up a cozy atmosphere. The indirect lighting also contributes to the pleasant ambienceradiates warm light. The interior color palette is neutral and simple. Interesting pieces of furniture, industrial lights and the wonderful kitchen floor made of black and white cement tiles set accents.

A multifaceted gray color palette, old bricks, large windows and lots of wood transform the airy rooms of the former factory hall into a real home. The inviting atmosphere also prevails in the outdoor area, which the large-format patio doors make it easy to access and at the same time connect seamlessly with the inside of the house. The house is an excellent example that loft and industrial should not always be associated with cool and uncomfortable.

*a project byARCO Contemporary Architecture