Located in the Polanco neighborhood of Mexico City, Edgar Allan Poe building was originally constructed in 1957 as office space. Over time, the property fell into disuse and disrepair, though the structure remained sound. This presented an opportunity to transform the building into a residential complex designed primarily for short-term stays. 

The goal was not just to renovate the building, but also to expand its potential. While preserving its columns, vertical core, and service ducts, the interior layout, façades, and material palette were completely redefined. This approach reduced the environmental impact significantly compared to new construction while preserving an important chapter of the site’s architectural history.

The renovated building now contains residential units, ranging from 30 to 45 square meters, distributed across seven floors plus a ground floor. Each unit is compact yet functional, designed for contemporary urban living. They are efficiently connected, highly practical, and sensitive to the rhythm of the city. 

Inside, locally sourced materials, warm tones, and natural textures foster a sensory atmosphere where comfort meets practicality. 

One of the key design challenges was the building’s position between two contrasting contexts: the calm, residential character of Edgar Allan Poe Street and the high traffic volume of Ejército Nacional Avenue. 

To address this dual condition and factors such as sunlight, ventilation, noise, and views, the architects developed an envelope that filters and regulates the relationship between the interior and exterior, protecting and connecting the building to its surroundings simultaneously. 

Rather than erasing what already existed, the project embraces adaptation as a sustainable approach to producing housing. This strategy extends the life of the city’s built environment and honors the passage of time.