CUPA Apartment, situated on the top floor of building “A” within Centro Urbano Presidente Alemán (CUPA), represents a historical gem in Mexico’s architectural landscape. This 60 m2 unit is part of the iconic group of modern buildings dating back to 1949, designed by renowned architect Mario Pani. The multifamily complex, with its innovative duplex typologies, reflects the social and technological changes of its era, akin to Le Corbusier’s Unite d’Habitation.
Preserving Modern Essence
The renovation project aimed to uphold the apartment’s modern essence by restoring its original finishes and integrating similar materials into the design. Key elements, such as the access door, stairs, and window ironwork, were meticulously recovered from the original design, maintaining the apartment’s authenticity.
Layout and Design
Spanning two levels, the apartment features a kitchen and dining area on the access level, while the upper level comprises the living room, master bedroom, and bathroom. The project began with the removal of plaster to reveal the concrete’s formwork texture on beams and slabs. White terrazzo flooring with light terracotta aggregates was laid on the ground floor, accompanied by a redesigned kitchen boasting wood and stainless steel countertops.
Multipurpose Space and Customization
The decision to retain the open space on the upper floor allowed for versatility in room configuration. Renovations primarily focused on the bathroom and closet areas, with the original wooden floor uncovered and restored. Custom elements, including a terrazzo sink with a terracotta-tone metal frame, were incorporated to enhance the bathroom’s aesthetic and functionality.
Homogeneous Design Approach
The south wall serves as a unified feature, incorporating shelving niches, closets, and the bedroom closet within a significant wooden element. Neutral tones, clear finishes, and a harmonious material palette maintain the simplicity of the original design while offering users the flexibility to personalize their space according to their preferences.
In conclusion, the CUPA Apartment renovation by Mariel Lozano and José Esparza honors the architectural legacy of its past while embracing contemporary functionality and aesthetics, creating a space that seamlessly blends history with modern living.
Eleanor Russell
