Carretas Renovation by Heryco: Reviving a 1990s Residential Building in Santiago de Querétaro

Located in the heart of Santiago de Querétaro, Mexico, the Carretas Renovation by architecture studio Heryco breathes new life into a once-dated 1990s apartment building. Overlooking the iconic Aqueduct of Querétaro, this ambitious renovation transforms a deteriorating structure into a vibrant, multi-functional residential and professional space that speaks to contemporary lifestyles while honoring the city’s architectural character.

Context and Purpose: Reviving Urban Potential

Set in a quiet, pedestrian-friendly, and family-oriented neighborhood, the building was once a neglected structure—typical of urban housing stock that often goes underutilized. Rather than demolish and rebuild, Heryco—led by architect Luis Carlos Aguilar González—chose a sustainable route through adaptive reuse. The goal was twofold: to modernize the interiors and facade while creating a mix of residential and commercial uses to anchor the building more effectively in its urban context.

Functional Transformation: Apartments + Studio Office

The 550-square-meter structure now contains four spacious three-bedroom apartments, each featuring a dedicated study, tailored for families, professionals, and remote workers. The ground floor has been converted into the architect's own design studio, offering a direct connection to the street and activating the building at the pedestrian level.

This dual-purpose layout reflects an intelligent approach to urban density, integrating work and living environments within a compact urban footprint.

Structural Challenges and Design Solutions

One of the project’s biggest hurdles was the building’s outdated construction system: a framework of steel beams and lightweight concrete slabs that restricted wall removal and major layout changes. Rather than force new forms, Heryco embraced these constraints—exposing structural steel beams as part of the interior aesthetic. This move not only preserved the building’s integrity but also enhanced spatial height and natural lighting.

The building’s entire roof slab was corroded and required structural intervention. Heryco responded with careful deconstruction, cleaning, treating, and reinforcing the slab from below, ensuring long-term safety without invasive demolition.

Materials and Aesthetic Identity

A key material innovation is the use of ‘Nanocal’ pigmented lime stucco, which clads both the exterior facade and interior patios. This breathable and naturally textured finish gives the building a timeless and fresh appearance, in contrast to the dated surfaces it replaced. Steel detailing, modern furniture, and curated artwork by local Mexican artists further elevate the building’s aesthetic, reinforcing a sense of contemporary sophistication rooted in place.

Comfort and Lifestyle Upgrades

Prioritizing resident comfort, the renovation introduced an efficient heating system and optimized water pressure across all units—often overlooked but essential features in older buildings. Private terraces now open toward the aqueduct, offering scenic views and outdoor respite, while high-quality furnishings and mattresses support restful living environments.

Each apartment balances modern finishes with authentic design gestures—like arched openings, minimalist detailing, and daylight-maximizing layouts—that resonate with contemporary urban dwellers.

Urban Regeneration Through Adaptive Reuse

Beyond its architectural refinements, the Carretas Renovation serves as a model for sustainable urban regeneration. By rehabilitating an existing structure, the project avoids the environmental costs of new construction, reduces land-use pressure, and contributes to the vitality of the local community.

It’s a compelling case study in how thoughtful architecture can transform underused properties into assets that meet evolving urban needs—without losing their historical and cultural anchoring.

Project Details:

• Project Name: Carretas Renovation
• Architects: Heryco
• Lead Architect: Luis Carlos Aguilar González
• Location: Santiago de Querétaro, Mexico
• Area: 550 m²
• Year Completed: 2023
• Photography: Ariadna Polo Fotografía
• Materials Used: Nanocal pigmented lime stucco, steel elements, high-end furnishings
• Collaborators & Suppliers: Nanocal, Paleta Arquigráfica