Mexican Design: How Modernism and Contemporaneity Combine

Contents:

• Nomade Atelier
• David Pompa
• Joel Escalona
• Comité de Proyectos
• Mob
• Peca Estudio
• Panorámica
• Sebastián Angeles
• Los Patrones
• Bi Yuu
• Gloria Cortina
• Ezequiel Farca + Cristina Grappin
• A-G Studio
• La Metropolitana
• ITZ
• Monica Calderón Studio

Nomade Atelier

The brand specializes in the production of furniture with exquisite geometric shapes and high quality. Diana Quintero Vallejo, a talented artist, inherited a family woodworking workshop with 30 years of experience. Together with her partner, French architect Ismael Bahri, they strive to create furniture that promotes artisanal craftsmanship among a Mexican generation accustomed to cheap, mass-produced goods. Their products combine artistic vision and traditional techniques, making each piece unique and sought-after. In their second collection, the designers moved away from wood, incorporating stone and brass into their work. The contrasting combination of brass and dark metal creates a striking visual experience, reminiscent of the play of light and shadow, like the photograms of László Moholy-Nagy. This collection demonstrates the evolution of materials and stylistic solutions, emphasizing the harmony between modern and classic design elements.

David Pompa

The studio, operating since 2008 and having branches in Mexico and Austria, creates unique projects using local materials and traditional techniques. The designers make extensive use of black clay from Oaxaca, Talavera ceramics (a polychrome majolica from the state of Puebla), and recycled hand-blown glass. Their work also incorporates brass, copper, onyx, and volcanic stones, all integral parts of Mexican cultural heritage. The studio strives to combine contemporary design with traditional craftsmanship, creating pieces that reflect the richness of Mexican nature and culture. The Origo collection of lamps, crafted from fiorito stone and frosted glass, embodies high quality and artistic craftsmanship comparable to sculptural works. Fiorito is a light gray stone with unique fossil inclusions, quarried in the state of Puebla. Its light hue and variety of finishes make it an ideal choice for contemporary design projects. The soft light emanating from the lamps highlights the texture of the volcanic rock, adding expressiveness and volume. This collection will be a striking accent in any interior, combining aesthetics and functionality. Wicker and textiles are a striking example of Mexican heritage. The lampshades in the Caleta collection are crafted from PVC cord, using a technique used by the ancient Mayans to create hammocks. This unique technique not only preserves traditions, but also gives a modern interior a unique character, combining historical roots and modern materials.

Joel Escalona

Joel Escalona began his career as an industrial designer, but over time his passions expanded to photography, writing, poetry, and sculpture. His functional pieces, such as tables, stools, armchairs and shelves, create a unique interaction with space. Some collections clearly reference the works of masters such as Isamu Noguchi and Constantin Brancusi, highlighting his quest for the harmony of form and function. Escalona manages to combine aesthetic appeal and practical application, making his works sought after and relevant in contemporary design.

Inspired by metaphors and philosophical concepts, Joel creates projects that combine a rational approach and sensory experience. He pays particular attention to natural materials and modern technologies, which allows him to create unique and harmonious solutions. Joel's works reflect his quest for aesthetics and functionality, emphasizing the importance of a balance between nature and innovation.

Escalona has received international recognition for his outstanding work, which has been presented at prestigious events such as the Maison & Objet in Paris, Milan Design Week and Design Miami Basel. These exhibitions became platforms for showcasing his unique style and innovative approach to design.

Comité de Proyectos

After two years of successful work on private projects, interior designers Andrea Flores and Lucia Soto decided to focus on creativity. They created and released their own furniture collection, which was first presented at the Inedito exhibition. This step marked a significant milestone in their careers, allowing them to showcase their unique style and creative approach to design.

The Centinelas furniture collection features unique Mexican pieces crafted from carved wood, sisal fiber elements, and rattan weaving. These pieces reflect the rich culture and traditions of Mexico, combining craftsmanship with contemporary design. Centinelas furniture is not only functional but will also become a striking accent in your interior, adding style and comfort.

The lamp, planter, and coffee table from the Binomios collection are elegant interior elements crafted from local materials. Monterey marble, Recinto volcanic stone, and Huanacaxtle wood were used in the production. The lamp is activated by rotating the black circle, creating an eclipse effect. The coffee table, in turn, has a top that conceals the mountainous terrain, adding uniqueness and aesthetic appeal. The Binomios collection is ideal for those who value high quality and original design in their interiors.

Mob

The interior and furniture studio Mob was founded in 2001 and has evolved significantly since then. At the initial stage, the design team focused on creating affordable and functional furniture. Today, under the direction of Jesús Irizar and Elsa García, the studio offers more extravagant and unique designs. One striking example is a collection of sculptural coat racks with contemporary terrazzo bases. Mob has gained international renown for its original lamps, inspired by the Italian postmodernist group Memphis. Most of the studio's pieces are created by local artisans, emphasizing the uniqueness and quality of their products. Mob continues to innovate the world of interior design by combining traditional craft techniques with contemporary trends.

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The Memphis Group: A Postmodern Revolution in Design

The Group Founded in 1981, Memphis became a symbol of the postmodern design movement. Led by Ettore Sottsass, this Italian collective challenged traditional notions of form and function in interior design. Memphis designers used vibrant colors, geometric shapes, and unexpected materials to create unique and provocative pieces.

The work of the Memphis group became iconic of the 1980s, reflecting the spirit of the time, a desire for experimentation, and a rejection of strict norms. Their products, such as furniture and accessories, are characterized by a playful and eclectic style, making them easily recognizable.

The Memphis group not only shaped new design trends but also influenced architecture, fashion, and art. Their approach to design has become a source of inspiration for many contemporary designers who continue to explore the boundaries of creativity. Memphis's contribution to postmodern design remains relevant today, emphasizing the importance of individuality and self-expression in art.

Peca Estudio

Caterina Moretti, founder of Peca Studio, masterfully transforms raw natural materials into elegant interior items. Among the materials used is lava stone, which was used in the house of the famous architect Luis Barragan in Mexico City. Using this unique stone, she created a collection of trays and shelves that harmoniously combine natural texture and contemporary design. Katerina's work stands out for its sophistication and ability to bring a natural atmosphere to any space.

Katerina and her colleagues Alejandra Carmona and Justine Truflo presented a unique wooden daybed in a Scandinavian style. This piece of furniture is adorned with leather cushions made using the piteado technique, a technique characterized by intricate leather embroidery. The use of Mexican agave fibers creates the visual effect of fine raindrops on the colored leather, adding a special sophistication and originality to the piece.

The Peca Estudio collection features a unique cabinet covered with a thin layer of 24-karat gold. This exquisite finish highlights the texture of the wooden base, creating a striking contrast. The wardrobe is not only functional, but also becomes a bright accent in the interior, bringing elegance and luxury to the space.

Panorámica

Panorámica is a unique form of collaboration, bringing together five friends rather than a traditional studio. José de la O designs the conceptual products, while Jorge Diego Etienne runs the creative studio, which offers a wide range of services. Moisés Hernández offers a fresh perspective on familiar Mexican objects, Joel Escalona designs industrial pieces for major brands, and Ian Ortega focuses on creating simple and functional furniture. This collaboration allows each partner to bring their own unique perspective, creating innovative solutions and products that reflect their shared approach to design and functionality.

Together, they create complex projects that are showcased in galleries and fairs around the world. Their goal is to transcend the boundaries of the national market and integrate into the global design scene.

Sebastián Angeles

Sebastián Angeles is the director of Dórica and the youngest designer working with the Mexican brand Pirwi. Despite being in his early twenties, he has a deep knowledge of product quality and is able to easily generate unique ideas. His fresh approach to design and commitment to innovation make him a significant figure in the contemporary industry. Angeles' portfolio includes eleven successfully completed projects, each a true achievement. One example is the Mobula wine bottle opener, shaped like a stingray. This tool combines functionality and aesthetics: it serves as a powerful lever, attracts attention with its unusual design, and ensures comfortable use. The concept of the slim-legged Pentagrama furniture is based on the complex relationship between functionality and musical elements. Each piece, including an armchair, chair, bar stool, daybed, and floor lamp, becomes a visual reflection of musical motifs and is accompanied by tactile sensations. The furniture's shapes resemble abstract notes on a musical staff, creating a unique synthesis of art and design. This furniture is not only practical, but also inspiring, bringing harmony and aesthetic appeal to the interior.

Los Patrones

Founded in 2015 in Monterey, Los Patrones is a contemporary furniture brand specializing in carbon steel products. The brand's range includes collections that are ideal for both outdoor and indoor use. Their products feature accessible designs, vibrant colours, and sometimes unusual geometries, allowing for the creation of unique and stylish spaces.

Monterrey is a unique city in Mexico's design and culture. In this industrial hub, streets are named after social activists and work tools, reflecting a rich heritage and history. Family workshops continue to thrive in Monterrey, preserving traditions of craftsmanship and artisanship. The city boasts a community and neighborhood spirit, making it an attractive destination for tourists and designers.

The story of Los Patrones begins amidst irons, milling cutters, presses, and clamps. The aroma of iron and oil permeates this workshop. Here, amidst welding and forging, traditional Mexican dances, cumbia and vallenato, are performed, creating a unique atmosphere where craft and culture merge. The workshop becomes a place where art and work intertwine, reflecting the rich heritage of Mexican traditions.

Bi Yuu

In 2012, Marisol Centeno founded Bi Yuu, a company specializing in rug production. In her work, she actively collaborates with local artisans, inspiring them to creative experiments. In particular, the artisans combine traditional fabric dyeing methods with the Japanese tie-dyeing technique known as shibori. This allows them to create unique pieces that reflect the richness of their cultural heritage and contemporary design trends. Bi Yuu not only embraces local traditions but also infuses them with innovative elements, making the company's products truly original. Marisol Centeno incorporates contemporary motifs such as color gradients, pastel geometric shapes, and abstract compositions into her designs, using local materials. This combination creates a unique style that reflects contemporary art and cultural traditions. Centeno's work showcases the harmony between innovative design and natural textures, captivating fashion and art lovers alike.

Gloria Cortina

Designer Gloria Cortina carefully examines the human body and its interaction with materials. Her works focus on natural leather and human posture, which emphasizes the harmony between form and function. Cortina creates unique designs by exploring how materials influence the body's feel and perception, striving to create aesthetically pleasing and comfortable pieces.

The brand's history began with a search for the perfect coffee table for Cortina's home, which was decorated in the 1940s by renowned decorator Arturo Pani for her grandparents. Unable to find a suitable option, Cortina decided to create the table herself. The result was a hand-forged brass piece composed of three interchangeable parts. She describes this unique table as an inverted, cracked pyramid, a tribute to the sculptor Matthias Goeritz, known for his massive concrete works and collaborations with architect Luis Barragán. This story reflects not only a desire for aesthetics but also the importance of individuality in interior design. The brand continues to evolve, preserving the traditions and inspiration at its core.

The table, which she produces in limited quantities, is now available for purchase from New York gallery owner Cristina Grajales. In 2014, Cortina began building her product portfolio with this piece, which has become a significant and commercially successful addition to her interior architecture practice.

In 2009, after studying at Parsons School of Architecture in New York and interning at the architectural studios of David Ling in New York and Ricardo Legoretta in Mexico, the designer opened her own interior design studio. Specializing in capital-intensive interiors, her work is characterized by an Art Deco style that incorporates pure geometry, monumental composition, and the use of luxurious materials. At the same time, her designs incorporate elements of local Mexican culture. For example, the "Silent Hummingbird" sconce, crafted from obsidian, rose quartz, and bronze, reflects the veneration of small birds in Mexican tradition. The "Dragon" vase, crafted from obsidian and Monterey black marble, is decorated with a pattern of paired steles, another traditional Mexican motif. These unique elements create a harmonious blend of modern design and Mexico's cultural heritage.

Ezequiel Farca + Cristina Grappin

Native grasses and shrubs grow on the facade of Ezequiel Farca and Cristina Grappin's design studio in the Polanco neighborhood of Mexico City. This living green wall highlights the studio's commitment to sustainability and the use of local materials. Volcanic stone, travertine, and wood are harmoniously combined to create unique design solutions that reflect a commitment to nature and the environment.

Business partners Farca, who specializes in industrial design, and Grappin, an architect, have been collaborating for eight years. During this time, they have built an interdisciplinary practice offering comprehensive services to clients in Mexico, Europe, and the United States. Their experience and collaboration allow them to effectively address design and architectural challenges, ensuring high quality and a personalized approach to each project.

The studio offers not only impressive architectural projects but also a unique collection of interior design objects. Among these pieces, a screen decorated with traditional Talavera ceramic tiles stands out. The vibrant black and white pattern on this screen clearly indicates its Mexican origins, emphasizing its authenticity and cultural heritage. Elements like this screen add personality and character to any space, blending tradition with contemporary design. Arne Jacobsen's Series 7 chair was adapted to local tastes. The white seat and backrest are adorned with a hand-knitted black ornamental mesh. Additionally, tables from the Gala collection feature tops reminiscent of ancient Aztec salt signs. These tops are composed of fragments of different shades, creating a gradient effect. This design combines modernity and tradition, bringing uniqueness to the interior.

A-G Studio

Andreas Gutiérrez, a designer from Mexico City, founded A-G Studio in 2012, which specializes in interior design, furniture, and art. A-G Studio offers unique solutions, combining aesthetics and functionality to create harmonious and stylish spaces. A-G Studio's interior design reflects the individuality of its clients and contemporary trends, and the furniture designed by the studio is distinguished by its originality and high quality. The art featured in the projects adds a special atmosphere and uniqueness to each interior.

In the Los Trece Cielos furniture collection, designer Gutiérrez delves deeply into Mexican myths and ancient cosmology. Crafted from solid white oak, the furniture is inspired by pre-Columbian creatures, lending it a unique character and rich cultural heritage. Each piece in this collection is more than just a piece of furniture; it's a true work of art, reflecting Mexico's rich history and traditions.

The Coatlicue Gabinete is a unique piece of furniture depicting the Aztec goddess of the earth. This goddess symbolizes both the creative and destructive forces of nature. El Guarcito is a functional credenza with an aggressive design reminiscent of a jaguar. Known for his passion for innovation, Gutierrez brings a rebellious and creative spirit to his work.

La Metropolitana

The studio, founded in Mexico City nine years ago by architect Alejandro Gutiérrez and industrial designers Rodrigo Escobedo and Mauricio Guerrero, presents a unique approach to furniture design. Their style combines modern CNC technology with traditional local materials and weaving techniques. This allows them to create original and functional interior pieces that reflect the region's cultural heritage and contemporary design trends. The studio actively develops innovative projects, making it a prominent player in the designer furniture market in Mexico and beyond.

Each piece from La Metropolitana reflects the studio's unique design language. The founders describe their approach as straightforward and honest, combining respect for tradition and history with an avant-garde vision of Mexican design. This creates a harmony between classic and modern elements, making the studio's products appealing to connoisseurs of high-quality and original design. La Metropolitana offers more than just objects; they offer true works of art that embody the spirit of Mexican culture.

Our goal is to become a leading benchmark in design and furniture in Mexico, while actively supporting the national industry and creating new jobs. Gutiérrez emphasizes the importance of this approach for developing the country's economy and improving the quality of life of its citizens. We strive for innovation and quality to ensure that our products meet the highest standards and satisfy customer needs.

ITZ

ITZ design studio and carpentry workshop is located in Bacalar, a southeastern part of Mexico known for its tropical deciduous forests. For over a decade, we've collaborated with the region's finest carpenters and artisans, allowing us to create unique, high-quality pieces. Our team, responsible for highly skilled finishing, detailing, and sanding, is comprised entirely of women, underscoring our approach to quality and attention to detail. We pride ourselves on our expertise and strive to offer our clients only the finest in design and carpentry. The studio adheres to the principle of handcrafted workmanship, pouring passion and care into every detail. Here, the raw materials are valued, preserving the unique qualities of each wooden board. Wood is perceived as part of a sacred ecosystem, which includes the artisans. The brand name is inspired by the Mayan concept of ITZ, emphasizing the sacred nature of objects. This philosophy helps create products filled with meaning and depth, which makes each creation unique and valuable.

Monica Calderón Studio

Monica Calderón, the founder of the studio, began her career in the design world in 1997. In 2000, she founded her own studio, specializing in the design and production of furniture and interior accessories made of resin. The studio offers unique solutions that combine contemporary style and high-quality materials. The studio's products attract attention thanks to their original forms and aesthetics, making them the ideal choice for creating a unique interior.

Our studio team consists of approximately 30 professionals. We collaborate with prestigious institutions and brands, such as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York and the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art (LACMA). Our clients also include renowned brands, including Saks Fifth Avenue, as well as hotel chains such as Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, and Wynn Hotels. We are proud to collaborate with renowned chefs such as José Andrés, Enrique Olvera, David Rockwell, and Rick Joy. Our team strives for high standards of quality and innovation in every project, ensuring client satisfaction at the highest level.

Monica divides her time between Mexico and Los Angeles, actively participating in social projects as a curator and initiator. She is the president of Innovando la Tradicion, a nonprofit organization based in Oaxaca's Juajes Valley. The organization brings together artists, chefs, designers, architects, philanthropists, and cultural activists who help support Oaxaca's pottery communities, their crafts, and traditional practices. Monica's mission is to preserve cultural heritage and develop local communities, which contributes to the sustainable development and prosperity of the region.

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