Centro Cultural Hartii, designed by Taller Mexicano de Arquitectura TAMA, represents a thoughtful renovation of a residence situated in one of Mérida’s most historic neighborhoods. Established in the early 1970s as one of the city’s first residential areas, this building—once a home and studio—has been transformed into an art gallery and cultural center.

The renovation aimed not only to preserve the original structure but to accentuate its essence through a dynamic interplay of vertical and horizontal volumes, level changes, and a nuanced play of solids and voids.

Contemporary materials, such as facade panels, concrete plaster, and flooring, were introduced to align with modern aesthetics while making the intervention clear. However, the original volumes were kept pristine in white, highlighting their significance.

The building’s functionality was reconfigured to accommodate the client’s programmatic needs, seamlessly integrating exhibition and event spaces with administrative and back-of-house areas. Natural light is a defining feature throughout the space, entering through an event courtyard. 

This approach avoids overexposing curtain walls and instead directs views toward existing lush gardens with tall trees and palm trees, as well as new water features designed to lower the temperature during use.

The scale of the building played a crucial role in the project’s design, allowing for a journey through varied heights—from double and medium heights to single levels—culminating in a courtyard encircled by low walls, trees, and water features. This courtyard serves as an ideal space for users to experience the interplay of levels and heights.

Centro Cultural Hartii demonstrates how renovating and adapting historical structures can preserve their essence while meeting modern needs, making it a key cultural center for the community.