Locus uses recycled materials for Mexico City restaurant interior

Mexican design studio Locus has utilised 50 per cent recycled materials for the interiors of a Singaporean restaurant in Mexico City.

Combining the varied flavours of Southeast Asia typical of Singapore's cuisine, Makan serves customers within an industrial-style space in the Centro district of the Mexican capital.

Restaurant within an industrial-style space — Makan occupies an industrial-style space in Mexico City's Centro neighbourhood

Designers Jachen Schleich and Sana Frini of Locus aimed to prioritise environmental responsibility with the project, and so used recycled materials for half of the total fit-out.

"From the conception stage, the use of sustainable materials was prioritised, particularly the use of national white oak wood in much of the interior design," said the studio.

Open kitchen framed by exposed concrete structure — The restaurant's open kitchen is framed by the exposed concrete structure

"This choice not only highlights the natural beauty of the surroundings but also ensures proper management of natural resources, promoting environmental conservation and supporting the local industry sustainably," the team added.

The white oak forms counters, shelving and built-in seating throughout the space, contrasting the exposed concrete floors, columns and ceiling.

Circular banquette tucked into a corner — Wooden bench seating is built around the perimeter and a circular banquette is tucked into a corner

The restaurant has street frontage on two sides, allowing the dining area to be flooded with natural light from tall operable windows.

This minimises the need for artificial light and air conditioning during the day, reducing electricity usage.

Private dining room tucked behind sliding paper screen — Private dining rooms are concealed behind sliding paper screens

Freestanding tables and chairs supplement the booth seating around the perimeter, which includes a curved unit for large parties tucked into a corner.

Shelves above the banquettes are filled with wine bottles, glassware and other accessories, while open storage units are suspended above the two service counters.

Dining room with sunken floors and bench seats — The private rooms feature sunken floors and bench seats, and can be opened up to one another

Along one side is a series of private dining spaces behind paper screens, with sunken floors and wooden bench seating.

These rooms, which more closely reflect Asian dining traditions, can be opened up to one another via more screens,

Behind the bar and open kitchen and across the bathroom walls, vertical timber boards are charred to a black finish.

"This technique not only adds a visually appealing element but also ensures durability and resistance, eliminating the need for harmful chemical treatments to the environment and health," said Locus.

Bar with stools in front and open shelving suspended above — Open shelving is suspended above the bar counter as well as the open kitchen service area

Planters large and small are peppered throughout the restaurant, adding greenery to the interior.

Overall, the tall ceilings, large windows and open kitchen create a light and airy atmosphere, while the material add an industrial edge.

Charred wood lining bathroom walls — Charred wood lines the walls in the bathrooms

As Mexico City's food scene continues to grow, several gastro options with interesting interiors have opened over the past few months.

These range from a boba tea shop by Worc Studio to an industrial-style restaurant by MYT+GLVDK and a tiny taqueria by RA!.

The photography is by Rafael Gamo.

Project credits:

Locus team: Jachen Schleich, Sana Frini
Design team: Santiago Sitten, Ruy Berumen, Eduardo Silva
Lighting: Locus x Estudio Nuumbra
Sinks: Locus x Muebles de Concreto
Chairs: Locus x Taller Nacional
Art: It's A Living, Sindrome de Clerambault
Graphic design: Foreign Policy Design

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