Carretas is a renovation project of an apartment building located in a residential, family-friendly, and pedestrian neighborhood in Queretaro, with proximity to and views of the iconic Aqueduct of Queretaro.
This building, originally constructed in the 90s, now features four spacious three-bedroom apartments, each with a study, ideal for families and professionals seeking a modern and functional space. Additionally, the ground floor of the building houses an architecture office, making it even more attractive with its direct connection to the street and serving as an anchor component in the building.
During the renovation of the building, we faced some unexpected challenges, such as the outdated construction system used for the building's structure. This system, based on steel beams and lightweight concrete slabs, limited our remodeling options and prevented us from demolishing partition walls. However, we managed to find an aesthetic solution by leaving the exposed steel beams uncovered, enhancing the spaciousness and natural lighting in the spaces.
Despite these challenges, our goal was to give the building a more youthful image through the use of pigmented lime stucco, steel details, art, and furniture, creating a cohesive and elegant visual effect.
We used 'Nanocal' pigmented lime stucco for the entire facade and courtyards, and reinforced the building's structure, as the entire rooftop slab structure was corroded and required uncovering, cleaning, treating, and reinforcing from underneath.
In this renovation, we prioritized the comfort of the residents by installing an efficient heating system and ensuring optimal water pressure at all times. We also opened up terraces to enjoy the views of the aqueduct and installed high-quality furniture and mattresses to guarantee rest and comfort for the residents.
To complement the modern aesthetics of the building, we integrated artwork by various Mexican artists, creating a unique and sophisticated atmosphere.
This renovation project is a great example of how architecture can transform spaces and improve people's quality of life. Moreover, this project represents a positive contribution to the city by reclaiming an abandoned building and transforming it into a habitable and functional space. The renovation of unused or abandoned buildings not only provides a solution to housing shortages but also reduces pressure on land use and prevents uncontrolled urban expansion.
This project exemplifies how building renovation can have a positive impact on the city and its inhabitants.
What was the brief?
To remodel a 1990s apartment building in a pedestrian and residential neighborhood of Querétaro and turn it into 4 Airbnb apartments and an architecture office. The goal was to give a more youthful image to the building through the use of pigmented lime stucco, wrought iron details, art, and furniture.
Key products used:
Pigmented lime stucco 'Nanocal' for all the facade and patios.
What were the key challenges?
The building used an uncommon construction system, based on rectangular tubular profiles (PTRs) and lightweight concrete. It was abandoned for a while, causing leaks that affected the entire steel structure, corroding it. For that reason, no wall could be demolished since the entire building functions as a single structure.
What were the solutions?
It was necessary to analyze the deterioration of the metal and reinforce all the slabs with new steel.
Team:
Architecture and Construction: Heryco
Photography: Ariadna Polo
