recycled materials cover half of energy-efficient asian bistro by locus in mexico city

locus incorporates recycled materials in Asian bistro design

Architecture studio Locus unveils Makan, an Asian bistro in Mexico City that prioritizes sustainability as it is built with 50% recycled materials. National white oak wood clads the restaurant, emphasizing the natural element while promoting responsible resource management and supporting local industry. The material palette also includes charred wood, whose details add durability without containing harmful chemical treatments. Environmental responsibility is a core principle, guiding the selection of sustainable materials and energy-efficient strategies like maximizing natural light and ventilation, thus reducing reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning.

all images by Rafael Gamo courtesy of Locus

Makan’s atmosphere reflects commitment to sustainability

In Singapore, the word Makan is an invitation to share food, symbolizing intimacy, warmth, and care. Chefs Maryann Yong and Mario Malváez chose this name for the culinary project, designed by Locus, to embody these values. Makan offers a dining experience that combines the precision and creativity of Asian cuisine with high-quality ingredients sourced from Mexican suppliers. The Mexico City-based studio envisions Makan as a place where guests can enjoy the atmosphere of the space, which reflects a commitment to environmental sustainability, alongside their meal. 

architecture studio Locus unveils Makan, an Asian bistro in Mexico City

Makan prioritizes sustainability as it is built with 50% recycled materials

National white oak wood clads the restaurant, emphasizing the natural element

charred wood details add durability without containing harmful chemical treatments

locus incorporates energy-efficient strategies

in Singapore, the word Makan is an invitation to share food

chefs Maryann Yong and Mario Malváez chose the name for the culinary project

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Makan offers a dining experience that combines Asian cuisine with high-quality ingredients from Mexican suppliers

the atmosphere of the space, reflects a commitment to environmental sustainability

promoting responsible resource management and supporting local industry are the restaurant's principles

project info:

name: Makan
architect: Locus | @locus______
lead architects: Sana Frini | @sanafrini, Jachen Schelich | @jachenschleich
design team: Santiago Sitten, Ruy Berumen, Eduardo Silva
lightning: Locus x Estudio Nuumbra | @nuumbra.estudio
sinks: Locus x MDC | @mueblesdeconcreto
chairs: Locus x Taller Nacional | @taller_nacional
art: It’s a living | @itsaliving, Síndrome de Clerambault | @sindromedeclerambault
graphic design: Foreign Policy Design | @foreignpolicydesign
location: Mexico City, Mexico

photographer: Rafael Gamo | @rafaelgamo

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom