Mexico City's La Cuadra, an iconic symbol of Mexico modernist architecture master Luis Barragán, steps into a fresh era
La Cuadra San Cristóbal, a mid-century equestrian estate northeast of Mexico City, is set to undergo a significant transformation. The estate, designed by the renowned architect Luis Barragań, will be transformed into a cultural center for art and architecture by the Fernando Romero Foundation.
The inspiration for this project comes from architect Fernando Romero, who has a fascination with La Cuadra San Cristóbal. Romero initiated discussions with the estate's owner to transform it into a house museum, aiming to preserve Barragań's late work. Notably, Romero's office space is a mid-century residence next door to Casa Luis Barragań, the architect's home and studio built in 1948, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The estate includes the residence, horse stables, and a famous horse pool with a pink, trough-like fountain. The campus development will span over a projected ten-year period and will include a library, a multi-purpose event venue, a gift shop, a coffee shop, an artist residency program, a gallery dedicated to the Archivo Collection of design objects, and a podcast production studio.
Internationally acclaimed architects, including Kengo Kuma, Tadao Ando, Bjarke Ingels, and SANAA, are involved in the design of additional spaces and pavilions. The first phase will include a permanent exhibition on Luis Barragañ, curated by Jorge Covarrubias.
The estate was originally part of rural land and was built between 1966 and 1968 for the Egerström family by Luis Barragán, after he met Swedish businessman Folke Egerström at the nearby riding club. The website for more information is fr-ee.org.
In Mexico, most preservation efforts are focused on archaeological sites and Spanish Colonial buildings. However, many of the country's 20th-century great works of architecture will need conservation, care, and a legacy plan to ensure they remain intact. Earthquakes in 2017 and 2022 damaged numerous structures in Mexico, and some were demolished, some retrofitted, and for others, their fates remain uncertain.
The transformation of La Cuadra San Cristóbal into a hub for creativity is a significant step towards preserving Mexico's 20th-century architectural heritage. Plans for full public access are scheduled for October 2025, with an early preview of the space available during Zona Maco 2025, featuring an artist experience with Marina Abramović. For more information, visit fr-ee.org.
Read also:
- Understanding Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis: Key Facts
- Stopping Osteoporosis Treatment: Timeline Considerations
- Trump's Policies: Tariffs, AI, Surveillance, and Possible Martial Law
- Expanded Community Health Involvement by CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, Maintained Through Consistent Outreach Programs Across Rajasthan
