Mourning House- Simple Stunning Architecture o9

The Mourning House in Mexico City, Mexico by Pascal Arquitectos is a project with very strong emotional implications.
Between understanding the mood of the user, who at that particular moment would not care much to analysis any place for its aesthetic value, and from the design aspect of wanted to create a space that can lift-up spiritual mood, Pascal Arquitectos did not only refered to ancient buidings that were designed for this purpose, as the Egiptian “Mastabas” or some Mayan buildings in Palenque but they were also guided by several groups of Rabbies because of Religious rules and buildings codes in the Jewish Religion are very strict for this kind of places.

"A project of this nature must encourage introspection and peaceful visual harmony through a discrete use of materials and lighting. "
-Pascal Arquitectos

Located in a residential area and as planned to isolate the building from its surroundings, the building facade is completely covered by Grissal flamed granite with only an indoor illuminated yard to provide natural-light source. A 6´4” wide + 30´ height triangular shaped wooden door welcome visitor s by leading them to an access tunnel in the same shape, creating a solemn atmosphere as you enter but at the entrance ends, the hallway opens to a large, double height granite hall illuminated by the northern light coming from the indoor courtyard with a tall Dracaena at the center and a symbolical abstract sculpture by artist Saul Kaminer as the only artwork piece for decoration.

No furniture was used inside this place,
only a floating bench surrounding the room,
that is made out of the same wood used in all the building.
It also serves to hide all of the air conditioning,
speakers and recessed lighting which adds a dramatic touch.
This way the rooms shows no added ornament but
the light and shades playing on the granite volumes.
The ceiling is made of dark cumaru wood and floats without touching any wall
and a skylight puts a highlight on this detail.

Ground Floor Plan

Longitudinal Section 1

Longitudinal Section 2

Cross Section 1

Cross Section 1

a+. pascal arquitectos via via