La Colecura is an architectural project located in the historic center of Pueblafor which, the preservation of historical heritage was sought. Its construction dates back to the 18th century and its background is located in the viceregal period, when used as a grain and seed center that were stored through ecclesiastical tithe. Therefore, It became a crucial headquarters for the local economy of the time.
The collection restoration process not only focused In the conservation of its original architectural elementssuch as stone walls and wooden structures; also in Its integration with new construction materials and techniques. This intervention allowed the reconfiguration of its spaces to design a cultural center that responded to current needs.
Cenital view of the vegetable garden.Courtesy The Collection.
Central courtyard and water mirror collection.Courtesy The Collection.
A restoration project in Puebla
The architectural program of the Collection retained and rehabilitated the elements from the hand of architects and artists who had the challenge of working in a preexistence. According to the real estate intervention guide in the Historic Center of Puebla, «restoration projects must prioritize the conservation of constructive, architectural, spatial and aesthetic integrity of the monument.»
In the case of The collection, their facades were restored and their imposing original arches were preserved. In addition, they adapted from interior spaces for new uses, which are a cafeteria, a gallery, a restaurant, a pair of orchards and a bar abroad, which has an area roofed with a ceiling, as there are spaces that only have exposed walls.
Now, among the collaborators is the architect Elias Adam, who proposed the installation of a water mirror in the central courtyard. This element connects visually and conceptually with the spaces of the collection, and helps to regulate the microclimate for urban gardens.
Thus, the plastic artist Raymundo Sesma was responsible for the design of the «Expanded Universe IV»a space protected by walls that allows the planting of fruit species that develop and nourish with each other.
IV expanded universe by Raymundo Sesma.Courtesy The Collection.
The collection as a cultural and gastronomic space
One of its outstanding areas is the cultural dining roomwhere a menu based on local and seasonal ingredients is offered. Next to this is The Fogatero, an outdoor space that operates as a bar and cultural forum. This area allows the presentation of live music and audiovisual projections, so, it is not surprising to see a projection of Videomapping on their walls in an interesting encounter with the preservation of material culture and the concerns of young creatives.