In the heart of Mexico City's vibrant Roma Norte neighborhood, a unique fusion of history and contemporary design has emerged with the opening of Colima 162, a luxury concept store. This boutique, named after its street address, showcases an intriguing blend of minimalist aesthetics and a rich cultural heritage. The project, led by local architect Laura Vela Lasagabaster and designer Manu Bañó, is a testament to their vision of creating a purist interior design that honors the past while embracing the present.
What makes this project particularly fascinating is the use of copper as an accent material. Copper, with its warm, earthy tones, is a bold choice for an interior design scheme. It adds a sense of luxury and sophistication, but more importantly, it serves as a connection to the historical context of the building. The 1919 residence, built during Mexico's Porfirian era, provides the perfect backdrop for this innovative use of materials.
The design duo's approach is best described as a minimalist intervention. They have carefully preserved the original features of the property, such as the full-height windows, and added a contemporary layer that enhances the space without overwhelming it. The sequence of rooms, connected by open doorways, invites customers to explore and discover each unique space. And at the heart of these spaces are custom hand-hammered recycled copper pieces, crafted with precision by expert artisans in Santa Clara del Cobre.
One of the most striking elements is the large circular basin with a reflective top, a true masterpiece of craftsmanship. It stands as a testament to the skill and attention to detail of the artisans. This piece, along with others like the vertical copper poles and the concave mirror-polished stand, serves multiple purposes. They are not just decorative elements but also functional, acting as furniture and support for the garments and shoes on display. This dual nature of the copper pieces adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to the design.
The russet tones of the copper create a beautiful contrast against the beige lime-plaster walls and the bamboo silk and wool rug. This color palette, inspired by the natural hues of Mexico, creates a sense of warmth and invites visitors to linger and explore. The use of mirrored panels in one of the rooms further enhances the sense of space and adds a touch of glamour.
Through their purist approach, Lasagabaster and Bañó have created a sculptural presence that challenges the conventional retail language. The interior, with its deliberately neutral palette, allows copper to take center stage, becoming the dominant and unifying element of the project. It is a bold statement, a departure from the typical retail design, and a celebration of Mexican craftsmanship and heritage.
This project is not an isolated case. Bañó, who frequently collaborates with fellow Mexican designers, has a history of creating unique and innovative spaces. From converting a dance hall into a furniture showroom to designing a homeware collection featuring hand-carved marble and volcanic stone, Bañó's work showcases a deep respect for Mexican culture and craftsmanship.
In conclusion, Colima 162 is more than just a boutique; it is a carefully curated experience. The use of copper as an accent material, the preservation of the building's historical bones, and the minimalist intervention all come together to create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and culturally significant. It is a testament to the power of design to tell a story and create a lasting impression. As we explore the world of retail design, projects like Colima 162 remind us of the importance of embracing local heritage and pushing the boundaries of conventional design.
