RYO KAN – GLVDK
the arChiteCt Came uP with the idea oF “oVerlaPPing materials” by using traVertine marble and natural stones, and transFormed them into simPle organiC Volumes…
June 2018 saw the opening of Ryo Kan MX, which is a project carried out by GLVDK, a multidisciplinary studio run by the Mexican architect Regina Galvanduque. Based on Mexican culture and inspired by the different elements of the traditional Japanese lifestyle, this project offers a new perspective for architecture, interior arrangements and art spaces. Ryo Kan MX is located in the Cuauhtémoc district, one of the newly developing areas of México City. For this project, which is situated at an area full of the best Japanese restaurants in the country, the architect has used “Japamex”, which stands for a concept that merges Japanese and Mexican cultures – a term that expresses this powerful blend in textures, shapes, tastes and sensations. Drawing from origami (the art of paper folding), the structure’s striking sculptural facade highlights a courtyard embodying natural textures and local materials, along with a Japanese garden, a cozy open library with a soft light, cushions, books, ceramics, fabrics and a reception area that embraces the ongoing conversation between Mexico and Japan. The terrace of the 10-room dwelling, which is adorned with tatamis (organic fibre mats), beds, fusumas (sliding doors) and tables with tea sets, opens out to the cityscape. It further becomes a genuine oasis in a big city by creating a suitable space for relaxing and having deep thoughts. This experience is led by the onsens (Japanese style bathtubs) created in this space, which are designed to reconnect and find some peace.
Finishings and Material Selection There are various Japamex-like elements within the combinations of raw and handmade veneers that create a balanced space along the building, which stands out as a genuine oasis in the middle of Mexico City. Textures, water and elements, create a zen space in which the concept of wabi-sabi springs to life. The building embodies travertine (undressed), concrete (handmade), ceramics (handmade) and terrazo (custom-made)…
