Brutalist Luxury Penthouse in Mexico City
A 300 m² sanctuary designed by Barde + vanVoltt
1Project Location and Scale
Located in Mexico City's Escandón neighborhood, this 300-square-meter penthouse was designed as a calm sanctuary above one of the city's most vibrant districts. Created for two creative professionals, the space represents a reinterpretation of brutalist architecture through warmth and craftsmanship. The transformation of a rooftop apartment was completed in 2025.
2Architectural Approach
Barde + vanVoltt aimed to soften the cold, industrial aesthetic of brutalist architecture using materials like wood and steel to provide domestic comfort. Developed in collaboration with Tenaz Estudio, the design was led by Bart Jan van Seggelen, Valerie Boerma, and Ivo Klaver. Photographed by Alejandro Ramirez Orozco, the project offers a contemporary interpretation of brutalism.
3Material Choices
The penthouse features wood, steel, and concrete as primary materials, with products from Nuumbra also incorporated. This material combination successfully balances brutalist aesthetics with warm interior spaces. The use of wood particularly strengthens what could be described as the project's 'warm brutalism' character.
4Spatial Organization
Organized across 300 square meters, the penthouse was planned to meet both work and relaxation needs of creative professionals. Open-plan living areas are balanced with private spaces requiring more privacy. The project offers an escape point for those wanting to distance themselves from urban chaos.
5Design Team Collaboration
The project was developed by Barde + vanVoltt in collaboration with Tenaz Estudio. The design team included Bart Jan van Seggelen, Valerie Boerma, and Ivo Klaver. Combining Mexico's local architectural elements with a brutalist approach, the team created a design meeting international standards.
6Photographic Presentation
Photographed by Alejandro Ramirez Orozco, the project demonstrates how brutalist details can create warm and inviting spaces. The photos effectively document material textures and spatial flow. Particularly striking is the interplay of natural light with the architectural space.
7Regional Context
The project respects Escandón neighborhood's architectural fabric while offering contemporary expression. Standing out in Mexico City's urban texture, the penthouse contributes brutalist elements to the city skyline. Use of local materials strengthens the project's contextual harmony.
8The Evolution of Brutalism
This project represents a significant step in the evolution of brutalist architecture. Traditionally perceived as cold and harsh, this style transforms into something warm and inviting in Barde + vanVoltt's hands. It serves as an excellent example of how brutalist elements can be successfully applied in living spaces for creative professionals.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — Meksika'da Brutalist Tarzda Lüks Penthouse