Colima 162: A Copper-Accented Luxury Concept Store in Mexico City
A Tribute to History and Craftsmanship
Located in the vibrant Roma Norte neighborhood of Mexico City, Colima 162 is a stunning luxury concept store that harmoniously blends history with contemporary design. The boutique, designed by Spanish architect Laura Vela Lasagabaster and designer Manu Bañó, occupies a 210-square-meter space within a grand residence built in 1919, a time emblematic of Mexico’s Porfirian era. This historical context serves as both the foundation and inspiration for the store’s thoughtfully curated interior.
Minimalist Design with Intention
Lasagabaster and Bañó embraced a minimalist approach, emphasizing minimal intervention in the original structure while accentuating its historical features, such as full-height windows and unique architectural elements. Upon entering, customers are welcomed by an access staircase that leads to a space carefully arranged to invite exploration. The designers remarked, “The sequence begins at the access staircase leading to the first level, where a clear and direct concept unfolds: a purist interior design grounded in minimal intervention.”
Copper as a Central Element
One can’t help but be captivated by the thoughtful use of recycled copper throughout the boutique. This russet-hued material, sourced from local artisans in Santa Clara del Cobre, not only adds warmth but also acts as a unifying design element that contrasts beautifully with the creamy beige lime-plaster walls. Each custom hand-hammered copper piece serves as a sculptural focal point—transforming functional items into works of art.
A Journey of Exploration
The layout of Colima 162 is designed to guide customers through a series of interconnected spaces. Each room unfolds into the next, creating an engaging experience where curated garments can be interacted with. The juxtaposition of open doorways encourages a sense of flow and curiosity, drawing visitors deeper into the store.
The initial space encountered is marked by a large, circular basin with a mirror-like top, which serves as an eye-catching welcome. This is juxtaposed against four vertical panels adorned with rods, enhancing the versatility of garment display.
Innovative Display Features
Throughout the boutique, copper manifests in various forms: from garment rails made of thin poles spliced by horizontal bars to custom shelving units that seem to float effortlessly against the walls. A stunning feature is a concave mirror-polished stand beautifully centered in front of a window, enhancing natural light while providing functional aesthetic appeal. The designers describe these installations as “sculptural objects” that fulfill both practical and design-oriented purposes in the space.
Texture and Light Play
The interplay of light across the different copper finishes—hammered, brushed, and polished—creates a visually dynamic environment. This design choice not only draws attention to the beauty of the material but also ensures that the boutique feels alive, shifting with the changing light throughout the day. The bamboo silk and wool rug that covers the floor further enhances the tactile experience with its luxurious feel and tone-matched palette.
Illusions of Space and Continuity
Mirrored elements also play a vital role in the interior design, particularly in one room where tall panels create an optical illusion that expands the space. The careful placement and orientation of these mirrors invite reflection—both literal and metaphorical—allowing visitors to engage with their surroundings in a unique way.
A Cohesive Narrative
Lasagabaster and Bañó emphasize that their design philosophy centers on a restrained material palette, which allows copper to emerge as the dominant presence within Colima 162. This purist approach reimagines the conventional language of retail, challenging visitors to reconsider how they experience a boutique environment.
Artisan Collaboration
The duo’s commitment to craftsmanship extends beyond the mere material; they collaborated closely with skilled artisans, ensuring that every piece not only tells a story but also supports local craft traditions. Key artisans such as Raúl Rauda, Pablo Reyes, and Humberto Reyes contributed to the uniqueness of the copper installations, further embedding local culture within the design.
Conclusion
Colima 162 presents itself as more than just a fashion destination. It is a testament to the thoughtful union of history, craftsmanship, and innovative design. The carefully curated space showcases the intricate relationship between material and environment, inviting every visitor to become a part of its evolving narrative.