Mexico in Color: 6 Projects That Pop

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, modernism in Mexico was robust with experimentation as well as reconciliation with the country’s traditions and history that were being endangered in the race towards modernization. Prominent Spanish architects in Mexico sought to embrace the movement and characteristics of European architects such as Le Corbusier, while being conscious of the cultural language of Mexico. Inspirations from Mexican mosaics and mural paintings were wed with the orthogonal simplicity of concrete volumes, which were typical to European modernism that found its way to Mexico.

This welding of minimalism and vibrancy led to a perpetuation of the use of color accents in many contemporary buildings in Mexico. Accents ranging from bright and bold to calm and subdued mixed with basic materials like concrete, stone, and wood results in a more emotional architecture. Interesting juxtapositions of space, color, and materiality creates a sculptural quality that is both playful and sophisticated. When these characteristics are also combined with a creative use of light, a dynamic living space is born.

Casa Vivian by Arqxioma, Lagos de Moreno, Mexico
This project is based on hues of orange, green, white, and gray to represent freshness, joy, and peace. These accents of color are also known as tones that convey pleasure and natural comfort.

International DHL by Bosco Arquitectos, Mexico City, Mexico
This office building is crimson red on the exterior and cool blues and violets on the interior. At some points these two colors are juxtaposed to create a sculptural quality through interior spaces.

Casa C by Bojorquez Arquitectos, Zapopan, Mexico
The soft blue gateway entrance harmonizes with the white exterior and the blue sky to create subtle geometries, and the yellow detail at the doorway of this project creates interesting light and shadow at the entrance.

GCA Building by Bosco Arquitectos, Mexico City, Mexico
This project attracts attention amidst its gray neighborhood with hints of color. The colored oculus dome in the entryway casts a warm yellow light into the double-height space.

Estancia Para Dos by RA3 Arquitectura, Puebla, Mexico
A balanced mix of color and materials makes this project stand out from its surroundings. This mix also designates separate spaces and their different functions.

Libertad 196 by Gerardo Ars Arquitectura, Boca del Rio, Mexico
The minimal but bold color accents in this minimalistic, white modern home accentuates the volumes and structure of the simplistic yet beautiful building.