Founders Pavilion (Al Modar) is a restaurant created by transforming an existing building, establishing a relaxed and inviting space where visitors can enjoy a rich sensory experience through coffee, food, nature, architecture, and social interaction.
The original structure was a 50-square-meter rural cottage located in the square of Cholul, a community of Hispanic origin within the city of Mérida in southeastern Mexico.
About 25 years ago, the building was renovated, during which the original roof and some windows were removed.
For the current renovation, the goal was to remove the roof added during the previous renovation, restore the original structure and stone walls that supported the double-layered high arch in the main passage, and reopen the terrace above. This approach creates a new perspective to appreciate the public square.
A new north-facing window was introduced at the intersection of the floor slabs to aid with heat dissipation, bring in natural light, and provide views of the treetops.
The arches and murals on the facade are crafted from paint layers revealed during the scraping process, echoing the style of 16th-century church architecture.
To maintain hygiene standards, 85% of the seating is outdoors, distributed between the backyard and an elevated terrace.
The interior space benefits from cross ventilation and includes a dining area, service bar, restroom, and storage/support spaces.
The choice of materials reflects the practicality, warmth, and simplicity characteristic of rural Yucatan architecture.
The plaster murals on the walls have been carefully preserved and restored. The concrete structure beneath the dome is visible, matching the color scheme of the rest of the building, which is also reflected in the polished plaster exterior.
The interior flooring consists of rough white concrete with ecological joints designed to allow moisture release.
Anti-slip hammered concrete floors are installed on the terrace and stairs, while the backyard is paved with local gravel.
Additionally, forged elements with encapsulated oxides, stainless steel, exposed concrete lattice, local stone, clear glass, and yellow screen-printed glass are incorporated throughout the design.
Cedar hardwood is used for doors, while local Tzalam wood is chosen for tables, complemented by white plastic chairs.
The landscaping draws inspiration from the aesthetics of Maya plots, aiming to stimulate the senses while enhancing the surrounding environment.
Plants are used to complement the native vegetation, elevated through concrete planters, benches, and water gardens featuring circulating fountains planted with local species.
Technical Drawings
△ Original building axonometric drawing
△ Site plan
△ First floor plan
△ Second floor plan
△ West elevation view
△ Sectional elevation view
△ North sectional map
△ East sectional view
Project Information
Architectural Design: TACO Taller de Arquitectura Contextual
Area: 75m²
Project Year: 2021
Photographer: Leo Espinosa
Engineer: Emmanuel Solís
Design Team: Carlos Patrón Ibarra, Ana Patrón Ibarra, Alejandro Patrón Sansor, Karla Gómez Luna, Libia Aguilar Coronado, Blanca Cruz, Kristell Guillen
City: Mérida
Country: Mexico
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