penthouse at basurto building
hipódromo condesa, mexico city
area
● 273.44 m2 interior living space
● 148.77 m2 terraces
● 422.21 m2 total area
this three-level penthouse is located within the basurto building (francisco j. serrano,
1940–1945), one of the most significant art deco residential buildings in mexico city. the
contemporary intervention is carefully integrated into a historically consolidated structure,
following the building’s comprehensive structural rehabilitation completed between 2017 and
2020, while preserving its original compositional logic and architectural character.
access and circulation system
the residence benefits from three independent access points:
● two main entrances located on levels 10 and 12
● one service entrance on level 10
the building includes both a main elevator and a service elevator, as well as independent
service staircases, ensuring a clear hierarchy between primary and operational circulation.
a defining architectural feature of the building is its original art deco staircase, which runs
vertically through the structure as a sculptural and spatially unifying element. the lobby,
conceived with strong ornamental and compositional intent, functions as a monumental
threshold and a work of architectural artistry in its own right.
architectural concept
the penthouse is organized through a vertical spatial sequence articulated by an interior
staircase accompanied by a full-height window, introducing deep natural light and
establishing a constant visual dialogue with the urban landscape.
the relationship between interior and exterior areas is fundamental to the project. with
148.77 m2 of terraces complementing 273.44 m2 of interior space, the exterior platforms are
not residual but structurally integral to the architectural composition.
large-format glazing systems allow spatial continuity, cross ventilation, and an expanded
perception of scale.
spatial organization
social level
an open-plan layout integrates living and dining areas, directly connected to the main
terrace. the continuity of material and visual axes reinforces amplitude and environmental
permeability.
private level
two bedrooms are arranged around a family lounge. the primary suite includes a walk-in
closet and a full bathroom with bathtub, forming a self-contained private domain within the
vertical composition.
upper independent level
with its own access, this level offers programmatic flexibility. it includes an audiovisual
lounge, a third bedroom, and an equipped terrace.
a system of staircases connects to upper terraces:
● an intermediate panoramic platform of approximately 50 m2 with 180° city views
● a top roof terrace with continuous solar exposure, suitable for sustainable strategies
or contemplative use
architectural and urban value
● located within one of mexico’s most significant art deco landmarks
● clearly articulated hierarchy of circulation (main and service)
● original art deco staircase as a defining architectural feature
● lobby of notable artistic and spatial value
● exceptional proportion of outdoor space within a dense urban context
the terraces constitute one of the most remarkable attributes of the property, both in
dimension and in urban positioning. from these elevated platforms, uninterrupted panoramic
views extend toward chapultepec cast le, paseo de la reforma, las lomas, chapultepec
forest, and parque méxico.
the breadth of visual range and dominant orientation create a rare urban vantage point,
positioning this residence among the most privileged panoramic platforms in the area.
