Today we are given a glimpse into the dramatic transformation of a home in Hermosillo, one of the best residential areas in Sonora. The work of Juan Luis Fernandez allowed the home to remain one of luxury and comfort, thirty years after it was first brought into being. The designers inspired a sense of change and renewal, both inside and out. Through this a series of new spaces were created; cool, modern and bright!
The greatest challenge lay in modernising a house defined by a functionalist style with classic details… with no structural plans! Changes were carried out during construction as a result of these challenges, but gave rise in some cases to new thoughtful ideas. These include the transition between the terrace and new garden bar built on an existing platform. The interior layout on the other hand did not change, but was adapted to the changing needs and tastes of today’s family.
Throughout the space, from the facade to the back yard, we can admire the changes the designers have achieved… Let’s take a look!
A truly functionalist style was employed in the building’s design with details typical at the time of its construction, the original facade appearing heavy and thick. The large, cantilevered second level, considered modern and spectacular at the time, began to decline into a dull imposition with the passage of time. The vegetation was all that gave life to the structure before the remodelling.
The facade of the house was completely rethought. Through materials and light it is made to feel spacious, modern and bright. The play of light and shadow through vegetation transform the main entrance way corridor into an interesting journey before entering. The garage gates and second floor windows allow a direct dialogue between interior and exterior lighting.
The social space was ample, but without order. A bar, sitting at the center of the room, served to definitively divide it from the dining space; avoiding the merging of environments and experience. What we are presented with is an enormous and uninspiring hall… but with so much potential!
The room brings together elements that implore one to touch. A large stone fireplace and grey stone wall separate the lobby and hall. The fireplace, standing in place of the original bar, offers a low wall which provides continuity between the living room, dining room and kitchen. A series of rustic wooden beams run across the ceiling, which serve to enclose the lighting while accentuating the warm and modern renewal of the home. If you want some more living room ideas, take a look here!
Across the bar sits the dining room, kitchen and staircase to the second level. Into this small lobby space many activities are uncomfortably crammed. Materials and lines run in odd directions… A change was desperately needed!
The space is now modern and vibrant. Thanks to continuity of materials and lighting, the new dining room now shares space with both the living room and kitchen. The aesthetically convoluted tangle of visual and structural elements in the original staircase is completely eliminated through simple yet elegant design. The light colours of the walls, ceiling and floor are the perfect canvas for the furniture and decorative details. If you want some more living dining ideas, take a look here!
The kitchen was a small wooden space, not suited to modern living. The space itself once again had plenty of potential, but was being severely underutilised. The ceiling was low and the shelves visually enclosed the space, making it feel small and disconnected.
High level shelves were avoided in the remodel to open up the space. The brightness of the stainless steel hood and shelving above the stove top enhance this spacious feeling through the reflection of light. The room is centred around a beautifully simple island covered with earthy tones along with reddish woodwork. This brings warmth and calm to the space.
The back yard had been a wasted space. The grill area had a very low roof, while a series of columns and planters prevented the flow between the home and garden.
The original terrace was entirely demolished to completely transform the back yard. And what a transformation! A new facade invites occupants to enjoy company and a meal pool side. A newly constructed bar sits above the pool on an existing platform. The structure has large windows looking over the pool and rest of the property. This final and spectacular touch is the perfect end to our visual tour of the renovation; a stunning space which invites one to relax and enjoy.
If you enjoyed this dramatic renovation, take a look at The Spectacular Conversion: From Dairy Shed to Home.