Local design studio CRB Arquitectos has unveiled the striking Tonalá 15 apartment building in Mexico City’s Roma neighbourhood. Completed in 2023, this 13-storey structure stands out with its bold use of orange-toned exposed concrete and triangular wedge-shaped design while contributing to the city’s sustainable urban landscape.
Blending Design with Sustainability
Located on a compact 350-square-metre (3,770-square-foot) lot, Tonalá 15 reflects an innovative approach to urban revitalisation. “The project actively seeks the revitalisation of the urban area, aiming to generate a positive impact both on the local economy and on the quality of life of the community’s inhabitants,” CRB Arquitectos shared.
This commitment extends to its material choices. Pigmented exposed concrete in an earthy tone was used throughout, providing durability and enabling the structure to develop character as it ages. The concrete also enabled the designers to craft the building’s signature curves, showcasing the material’s adaptability.
Public-Friendly Ground Floor
The ground level of the building incorporates a small plaza at its northern tip, creating an inviting interface with the public. Two commercial spaces span the width of the property, connecting seamlessly with surrounding streets, while the residential lobby features two semi-circular staircases and elevators. Clad in granite, recinto stone, and wood panelling, these public areas offer a harmonious blend of elegance and utility.
The ground floor is designed with a canted inward structure, allowing planters to wrap around the perimeter. This feature enhances the connection between the building and the street, inviting pedestrians into the space.
Compact Yet Functional Residences
The 11 residential floors house compact apartments ranging from 50 to 54 square metres (538 to 581 square feet). Designed with simplicity and functionality in mind, these units cater to short-term renters. Collaborating with Estudio M:A, the interiors feature New Navona marble, wicker, and domestic wood, delivering a warm, distinctly Mexican aesthetic.
Rooftop Green Oasis
Tonalá 15’s roof garden offers a dual-purpose green public area, comprising a seated garden and an open terrace with sweeping city views. Beyond aesthetics, the rooftop includes a rainwater harvesting system, enhancing the building’s sustainability.
“This project embraces a passive design strategy with planters on different floors, a rooftop garden, and a public plaza, collectively forming a vertical oasis that contributes clean air to the city,” the architects explained.
A New Standard for Urban Architecture
By balancing form, function, and environmental responsibility, Tonalá 15 sets a benchmark for modern urban living. Its thoughtful design aligns with emerging trends in sustainable architecture, making it a standout feature of Mexico City’s evolving skyline.