“Dolores” is a house remodeling project from the beginning of the 20th century located in Mérida, Yucatán. 

This project aims to rescue and celebrate the original character of the neighborhood, houses with modest volumes and frontal gardens promoted neighborhood coexistence.

The house, built originally for workers in a charity raffle, consisted of a single masonry gallery with a concrete roof, and a small semi-detached kitchen room. Over time, original families adapted the constructions, but these modifications dissolved the original type and identity of the neighborhood.

The requirements of the project included new separated bedrooms, new service spaces and a swimming pool. This involved a complete reorganization of the property, so the existing spaces were also reconfigured.

To respect the context, the original volume was consolidated, presenting itself as the main one and the new spaces were added to the back of it and on the second floor. These additions were designed in a more contemporary style with light volumes to mark a contrast between times. As part of the architectural integration, numerous details were also designed in the windows and doors, which allowed us to create a consistent identity.

The chosen materials like wood, national marble and coatings made on site emphasized the architectural elements. Serene colors were chosen to complement the natural tones of the finishes.

This project seeks to study the influence of the individual building as a component of a larger urban system. We understand that the transformation of cities and buildings is inevitable, but only through rescuing historical memory can we create cities with consistent identities, especially in the growing evolution of real estate speculation that puts economic benefit before social and cultural benefit.

It is our hope that this strategy can be an inspiration for other houses in the area, adding to these efforts to recreate the essence of the neighborhood.