The fashion boutique Colima 162 in Mexico City showcases a unique blend of historical architecture and contemporary design, with a particular focus on the use of recycled copper. The boutique's interior, designed by local architect Laura Vela Lasagabaster and designer Manu Bañó, is a testament to their minimalist and purist approach. The use of copper as an accent material is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, adding a sense of warmth and texture to the space.
One of the most striking features of the boutique is the large circular basin with a flat reflective top, which stands in front of four vertical panels with rods protruding from indents in the material. This design element not only serves as a functional feature but also as a sculptural object, introducing variations of light and texture throughout the space. The combination of hammered, brushed, and mirror-polished finishes on the copper pieces creates a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.
The use of recycled copper in the boutique is a nod to the historical bones of the property, which was built in 1919 during Mexico's Porfirian era. The duo behind the design, Lasagabaster and Bañó, aimed to create a minimalist contemporary layer around the original features, such as full-height windows, while still preserving the historical integrity of the space.
The boutique's layout is designed to be explored, with a series of rooms connected by open doorways. Each space features a different, custom hand-hammered recycled copper piece crafted by expert artisans in Santa Clara del Cobre. The use of copper as a unifying element ties the space together, creating a sense of cohesion and continuity throughout the boutique.
The design of Colima 162 is a testament to the power of minimalism and the use of natural materials. The russet-toned copper stands out against the beige lime-plaster walls and a tone-matched bamboo silk and wool rug, creating a sense of warmth and texture that is both inviting and elegant. The boutique's design is a perfect example of how a restrained, contextual material palette can create a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
In conclusion, the fashion boutique Colima 162 is a stunning example of how historical architecture and contemporary design can come together to create a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The use of recycled copper as an accent material is a testament to the duo's minimalist and purist approach, and the result is a space that is both inviting and elegant.
