SAMA Architects together with mob studio have designed Chapulín, a restaurant that features a variety of materials and fuses together characteristic elements of Mexico’s history. The main entrance welcomes us with a unique hallway, made up by a fixing of more than 11,000 custom clay tiles, made by hand in the state of Oaxaca by a group of Oaxacan women in “El Alacrán” ceramics workshop, run by Mexican artist and sculptor Adán Paredes. In the center of the room there is a special furniture set made up by a display cabinet and a hanging luminaire that descends from the ceiling, showcasing a selection of the most luxurious wines. Being the most spacious, the dining area is at a time divided in two different spaces: terrace and inner lounge, both having the magnificent sight of Chapultepec forest as landscape, through a large permeable window that allows for natural ventilation and sunlight access, thanks to its folding system.
Chapulín is a restaurant that brings together Mexican tradition and refined culinary taste, an experience meant to stimulate all senses. According to the owners: “Chapulín, a place inspired by our own history. In our architecture we merged black mud of Oaxaca with golden details of the colonial period. We mix elements of popular culture such as contemporary furniture lines to what’s on trend, an inspiration that came up with the idea of the famous arquitect Barragan. We are a place where we honor diversity and cultural richness providing our home touch. We are a timeless place that as Mexico, always will bring out the best moments and places where we are. Giving Chapulín a mix of the Old Mexico meets the New Mexico.”
Finishes in wood and wicker weaving, geometric accents and basketry elements are some of the details that dress up the diner lounge. The bar area can be easily reached from the lobby, and is characterized by the use of cold appearance materials such as marble, granite and glass; which in contrast with the wooden wall panels and suspended ceiling, bring back to life the elegance of old colonial times in Mexico. As mob specializes in interior architecture and furniture design, all pieces of furniture were made by master craftsmen to achieve a comprehensive and coherent look within the space.
