This October, the iconic Cuadra San Cristóbal, famed for its vibrant pink walls crafted by the architect Luis Barragán, will open its doors to the public as the new home of the Fundación Fernando Romero.
Drawing inspiration from traditional ranch architecture, this residence stands as one of Barragán’s most celebrated works. Commissioned in 1968 by Folke Egerström, a prominent member of the Club Hípico Francés, it reflects a perfect blend of artistry and function.
Under the visionary leadership of architect and philanthropist Fernando Romero, Cuadra San Cristóbal is poised to transform into a space of continuous evolution and creativity. The upcoming installations include a wooden pavilion designed by Kengo Kuma and a site-specific installation by Marina Abramović, set to grace the house's courtyard.
Exterior courtyard at La Cuadra San Cristóbal, credit: Yannik Wegner, courtesy Fundación Fernando Romero.
Fernando Romero shared the vision behind the Fundación's ambitious new project:
“Our work is guided by the belief that architectural innovation and artistic production can help promote a more just and culturally vibrant world.”
Exterior courtyard at La Cuadra San Cristóbal, credit: Yannik Wegner, courtesy Fundación Fernando Romero.
With this philosophy in mind, La Cuadra is set to transform into a dynamic cultural hub, poised to rekindle the intersection of art and architecture.
The Fundación aims to celebrate the enduring legacy of the legendary architect Luis Barragán while introducing an array of programs designed to engage and inspire the visiting public. In doing so, they seek to harness the unique power of architecture as a medium for cultural connection. Over the next decade, a visionary multi-phased plan will breathe new life into the La Cuadra campus.
Fernando Romero at La Cuadra San Cristóbal, credit: Juan HDZ. Exterior courtyard at La Cuadra San Cristóbal, credit: Yannik Wegner, courtesy Fundación Fernando Romero.
The project, which honors architectural preservation, will also introduce contemporary pavilions crafted by internationally acclaimed architects, including a wooden structure designed by Kengo Kuma.
Exterior courtyard at La Cuadra San Cristóbal, credit: Yannik Wegner, courtesy Fundación Fernando Romero.
This thoughtful combination of old and new will create a vibrant destination that evolves alongside the ever-changing landscape of cultural and artistic expression. The vision for La Cuadra is not just about architectural aesthetics; it’s about fostering a space where creativity thrives and diverse cultural narratives intertwine.
Exterior courtyard at La Cuadra San Cristóbal, credit: Yannik Wegner, courtesy Fundación Fernando Romero.
As the plans unfold, expect to witness a transformation that not only preserves the rich history of this site but also champions new possibilities for artistic collaboration and community engagement.
Exterior courtyard at La Cuadra San Cristóbal, credit: Yannik Wegner, courtesy Fundación Fernando Romero.
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Cover image: Exterior courtyard at La Cuadra San Cristóbal, credit: Yannik Wegner, courtesy Fundación Fernando Romero.
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