When it comes to Mexican architecture, it goes without saying that architect Daniel Amkie is particularly responsible for the urban development of Las Lomas, in Mexico City. It is an old neighbourhood with a very particular land use: with the passage of time, homes with excellent design have always remained within generous plots of land. "My client was thinking of doing an apartment in a condominium and I proposed that he look at this place, which is beautiful and rich with history; I encouraged him to take the house and renovate it in a way that respected the property," Amkie explained.
The original 1950s residence is laid out on one floor and surrounded by the garden. The project, called Casa Sierra Leona, was based on "a deep sensitivity to the history of the building and its surroundings, seeking to preserve its essence while transforming it into a timeless, functional and emotionally liveable space," said the architect. Traditional elements from Mexican architecture such as the window frames, ironwork details and sloping roofs were recovered, as well as the noble materials; what could no longer be restored -such as the tiles- was replaced in a coherent and harmonious manner.
The original structure was maintained, but the rooms were reconfigured in a fluid way, "prioritising spaciousness, natural lighting and a direct relationship with the exterior," said the firm. The strategy was one of openness and visual connection: some unnecessary walls were eliminated, windows were enlarged and "smooth transitions" were generated between public and private areas.
As a young, growing family, the design put a lot of thought into contemporary, dynamic and evolving living. There were four bedrooms: one became a playroom for the children, with the possibility of taking on another use in the future; another became a walk-in closet to provide more comfort for the couple. The dining room was transformed into a living room with a bar and coffee area, where the whole family could spend time together at different times of the day, watch TV or work if necessary, and even receive visitors. In general, the social spaces of the house-the living room, dining room and kitchen-were articulated "as a single architectural gesture that dialogues with the garden, extending the daily experience outward."
"The new luxury is outdoor space; for contemporary living it is more than vital," assured the architect, who was also in charge of the landscaping. The green facade was already part of the house and was maintained. However, the exteriors were wasted and the walls were closed to them. We had to think about taking advantage of nature and bringing it inside the residence. Daniel Amkie created a large terrace and vegetation that was integrated into the house in such a way that it added character. The gardens were designed around fern, elegans palm, monstera and fruit trees. A water feature was added that can be seen from certain perspectives and achieves an experience that is also auditory.
The conversation between the interior and exterior was sought in a "quite soft and meaningful" way through a palette of neutral and natural materials and colours. The décor complements this link, and is as much about honouring the home's history as it is about the owners' taste for good architecture, art and design. The Amkie firm was responsible for the interior design, the design of certain pieces (such as the dining table and sideboard) and for finding furniture and light fixtures that bring a serene and timeless air to family life, which is constantly being renewed.
