CREDITS: 1.00 LU/HSW

Course Description
The course examines a new residential building with an elegant, enigmatic appearance, located in a prestigious urban location with extensive green areas. The materials used and the design itself are the latest in a series of investigations by the young architect into typology and structure that demonstrate his critical understanding of contemporary international thought, while also paying due regard to the capabilities of Mexico’s construction industry and the realities of Mexican life. The project responds to resident needs in terms of comfort, livability and the usability of space. The course describes the new building through images and technical drawings, and provides construction details with explanatory legends and an introductory text. In addition, other condominium blocks are examined that demonstrate the design approach of Dellekamp and his firm in terms of the use of living spaces.

Learning Objectives – after reading the article and studying the drawings, you will be able to:

1. Analyze the materials used to construct the building, including its sun-shading and finishes, assessing the interior spaces in terms of the requirements of resident comfort and privacy.
2. Describe the design measures taken so that the building harmonizes with its urban setting, and discuss how the design of the building is the outcome of a series of studies conducted by the architect.
3. Analyze the relationship between the outer shell and interior finishes of the building.
4. Examine the relationship between the building’s structure and shell, not only in terms of the aesthetic function, but also as regards the overall sensory experience.

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Architecture and Contemporary Living:
Apartment Buildings in Mexico City – Mexico City
Mexico Derek Dellekamp