In the design by Centro de Colaboración Arquitectónica, the façade, materials and interiors follow the modulation rules imposed by the structure. The front module is divided into two and the rear into three; this last division extends to the underground floors to configure the parking spaces.
The materials are chosen, all selected to complement the concrete structure, following a reduced colour range. Stone floors in bathrooms, hallways and terraces, and wood floors in bedrooms, combine with walls and carpentry in light tones. The furniture, without overpowering the rest of the palette, has painted details that stand out from the rest.
Oaxaca 88 by CCA. Photograph by Ricardo de la Concha, courtesy of CCA Centro de Colaboración Arquitectónica and IP Studio.
Project description by Centro de Colaboración Arquitectónica
Oaxaca 88 is located between two major public spaces in Mexico City: the "Fuente de Cibeles" and "Parque España", in the Condesa neighbourhood. It is set within a vibrant urban context, surrounded by lush greenery.
Situated on an irregular plot measuring 27m by 15m, the project is articulated through two interconnected volumes by a vertical circulation core.
The program includes 26 small housing units, ranging from 38 sqm for the smallest to 117 sqm for the largest, which is the sole penthouse, along with a rooftop and a commercial space adjacent to the pedestrian and vehicular access.
Responding to the site’s characteristics, the initial design decision was to separate the two volumes, positioning one at the front and the other at the rear, both connected by the vertical circulation core. This configuration allows for units with northern and southern orientations.
The building adheres to a strict modulation system guided by the structural framework, which is reflected throughout the project: in its materiality, interiors, and facade treatments.
The northern and main facade is divided into two sections, revealing the internal layout of the apartments and resulting in two concrete panels, the detail that stands out as a prominent recess on the facade. On the southern rear facade the modulation transitions to three sections, creating a clear separation of basement parking spaces while organizing the smaller unit typologies on the upper levels. This distribution grid ensures clarity in both plan and elevation.
Regarding materials, exposed concrete serves as the primary design element, influencing the selection of all other materials.
Inside, a selected material palette seeks timelessness: wooden floors for bedrooms and living spaces, locally sourced gray-toned stone for bathrooms, circulation areas, and terraces, as well as white walls.
The woodwork features light wood, with several unit typologies incorporating multifunctional furniture—such as a closet that also serves as a TV stand. Each unit is accented with color details.
Externally, the exposed concrete is complemented by green ironwork railings, that blends harmoniously with the large tree framing the main facade.
The facade is complemented by a window frame system that allows for full opening, providing a seamless transition from the exterior to the interior of the apartment.
The building feels immersed in the city through its attractive balconies and spacious terraces. The surrounding context enriches the project in every sense, from the dense vegetation flowing in from the street to the privileged views of the urban landscape along "Avenida Paseo de la Reforma", where Mexico City’s tallest and most iconic buildings can be seen.
