jorge urias studio's carved concrete structure portrays local dynamics in juarez, mexico

the anapra neighborhood in the city of juarez, mexico, is rich in textures and exposed materials — where the built environment visually portrays its people’s creativity through their unique construction systems. in that case, jorge urias studio has been commissioned the design of a low-cost commercial concrete structure with an open floor plan that could be redistributed as needed. 

the concrete structure resonates with the site’s unique architecture and character
all images © rafael gamo

given the brief, jorge urias studio has opted for an exposed concrete that would resonate with the site. the mass material emerges from the ground and is carved with a bold pattern resembling the outlines of hidden potentialities within settlers and their surroundings. in other word, the raw finishing of the tilt-up concrete panels inherits the dynamic activities and informalities found in the neighborhood, ultimately creating an unprecedented structure which mirrors the qualities on site.

front view of the façade

the recessed patterns show a constant play of light throughout the day

dust clouds are common in the desertic city of juarez mexico

the building resembles a carved concrete box 

a neighbourhood market takes place on the weekends, next to the architecture

detail of carved concrete pattern 

the raw finishing of the tilt-up concrete panels inherits the dynamic informalities found in the neighborhood

recessed openings help protect from desert sun

weekend market panoramic view

recessed pattern and lighting details 

corner detail 

construction process 

project info:

project name: anapra

location: ciudad juarez, mexico

architect: jorge urias studio

structural: ECUSA and el paso concrete systems

design team: jorge urias, alberto carrillo, alberto duarte, hugo santana

gross floor area: 300 sq.m.

completion: 2016

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: lea zeitoun | designboom