Cuitlahuac Building by RE+D: A Contemporary Approach to Urban Re-Densification

A New Urban Housing Model in Guadalajara

Located on the outskirts of Guadalajara, where urban land is becoming increasingly valuable, the Cuitlahuac Building by RE+D is designed as a response to the need for re-densification. The site, previously occupied by two single-family homes, has been transformed into a four-story apartment complex, reflecting a shift toward contemporary urban living.

Architectural Design & Contextual Integration

The design challenges the area's conventional low-density housing typology, introducing a modern architectural language while maintaining harmony with the surroundings. The elongated lot allowed for a spatial composition that respects the neighborhood’s scale while optimizing land use.

Materiality & Sustainable Design Strategies

The project incorporates raw concrete as the primary structural and aesthetic element, reinforcing its horizontal composition. A key feature of the façade is a semi-translucent horizontal screen, which serves multiple functions:

• Acoustic insulation, reducing street noise.
• Natural light diffusion, enhancing daylight penetration.
• Privacy preservation, creating a comfortable living environment.

On the top floor, semi-covered terraces enhance outdoor living while integrating seamlessly with the overall urban aesthetic.

Innovative Construction & Featured Materials

The Cuitlahuac Building exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to urban residential design, balancing density, sustainability, and modern aesthetics.

All Photographs are works of César Béjar