Jury verdict:

"This project is a courageous but keen transformation of a historic building complex in the centre of Mexico City into a three-dimensional landscape of urban living. While the body of the building was respectfully refurbished and extended by an almost similar construction, the vertical additions are a light construction with a roof-like appearance on the street-side. They allow for double-height rooms with open stairs, leading to the terraces on the top. The jury has been convinced by the professionalism to the point of virtuosity displayed by the architects. In a situation with many contraints, they invented a delightful spatiality in the apartments. Although the plans follow with rigor the footprint of the original building, the section displays invention and complexity. The project contributes to the revival of historic heritage in an endangered zone. Densifying the existing structure is a viable strategy, although a touch of gentrification cannot be denied."

Authors:

Eduardo Cadaval Narezo, Clara Solà-Morales

Building Engineer:

Eugenio Eraña, Juan Carlos Cajiga.

Technician:

Ricardo Camacho

Developer / Owner:

Reurbano.

Contractor:

Eugenio Eraña, Juan Carlos Cajiga.

Photographer:

Miguel de Gúzman

Contributors:

Olivier Arditi