The interior of the Plumbago restaurant features natural materials, an abundance of daylight and an array of green plants. © Ariadna Polo

Located in Cuauhtémoc, one of Mexico City's liveliest neighbourhoods, Plumbago is a restaurant and cultural centre designed by OPA – Oficina de Práctica Arquitectónica. 

The new venue is nestled between two high-rise buildings on a small plot in the city's financial district. The building comprises two main rooms that differ in size and materiality. The larger, transparent volume has a corrugated polycarbonate panel facade and gabled roof. The visible ochre-coloured steel roof structure and sliding entrance door emphasise the building's lightness. The smaller volume resembles a closed shed, with ochre-coloured galvanised steel adorning the building envelope and gabled roof. The form and materiality of the ensemble are reminiscent of an urban greenhouse complex. 

The interior design team drew inspiration from the cosiness of traditional Mexican suburban homes. The main dining area and a bar with seating for up to 70 guests are located in the large building. Natural materials, diffused daylight and an abundance of green plants create a cosy atmosphere. The brick walls' earthy tones harmonise with the light woods and ochre-coloured exposed steel structure. The furniture is also made of wood and steel, creating a consistent aesthetic throughout. The smaller building houses the kitchen and service area. 

The open floor plan encourages movement throughout the interior. A terrace in the rear courtyard connects to the dining area, ensuring cross ventilation. This allows the indoor and outdoor spaces to merge, which was important to the client who runs a cultural programme featuring exhibitions and live music performances alongside the restaurant. 

Architecture: OPA – Oficina de Práctica Arquitectónica Location: Cuauhtémoc, Mexico-City (MX)

Site management: RAmásRA EstudioStructural engineering: Suma