Mexico City–based Roy Azar is both an architect and an interior designer whose eclectic style results from a passion for experimentation. With this project, located in one of the most sought-after areas of Mexico City, Azar knew immediately that he had to find a way to emphasize his client’s sublime contemporary art collection, so he decided to use clean architectural lines and neutral backdrops.
The sun-drenched interiors connect with an outdoor garden, terrace and swimming pool, and most of the floors are covered with gleaming Carrara marble. Showcased on the white walls and highlighted by the black metal frames of the doors and windows, artworks by Mexican and international masters — Cy Twombly, Jeff Koons, Andy Warhol, Roberto Matta and Jose Dávila, to name a few — add pops of color throughout the house. Bright, airy and bold, this family home is the perfect backdrop for a covetable collection.
Foyer
The sunny entryway features a sculptural staircase with an off-center beam that connects all the levels of the house. Above the Julian Chichester–designed table, a multi-panel piece by Mexican artist Jose Dávila adorns the wall. “Most of the areas in this house were thought of as a white canvas whose main purpose was to enhance the owners’ contemporary art,” says Azar.
Powder Room
“The double powder room is clad in textured mirror to give a sense of drama and sophistication,” the architect says. “I used black wood marble for the vanity top and marble floors to create contrast with the doors, which are made from oak with brass inserts.” The fittings are from Waterworks and the eye-catching ceiling pendant is by Kelly Wearstler.
Library
“The library was planned as a bold nook displaying drawings from Man Ray, Jeff Koons and Frank Gehry, among others,” Azar explains. “Adjacent to the side garden of the house, with its own terrace, the room is filled with natural light, which accentuates the red used in the bookcases and in the upholstered wing chair.” The bronze and marble coffee table is covered in Edelman Leather tiles.
Dining Room
“The indoor-outdoor dining room was planned as an area to entertain a large group of family members and friends. The glass doors open up and disappear completely inside or behind walls,” Azar says. “A black steel border separates the walls and ceilings of the entire ground level of this residence. This was made to give a second frame to the artworks, adding a touch of sophistication.”
The 2006 Lips photograph is by Martin Schoeller, and the stainless-steel wall sculpture on the opposite wall is by Aldo Chaparro. The sculpture on the far end is by Mexican artist Gonzalo Lebrija. A Lindsey Adelman chandelier complements the setting. The dining table was designed by Azar.
Office
“The home office’s focal point is a 27-foot-long curio cabinet displaying a collection of books and objects. This space can also be used as an additional guest room,” Azar notes. The 18-foot desk is made of gray parchment with bronze legs. The walls are upholstered in a dramatic black-and-white malachite print and the graphic pillow is by Pierre Frey.
Master Bedroom
Serving as a sanctuary where the owners can relax, with views overlooking the garden, the master bedroom was decorated with various textures in off-white and bone. The nightstands are from Made Goods and the table lamps are from Visual Comfort. The desk was custom-made in glass and bronze. An Andy Warhol print hangs near the entry.
Master Bath
“The master bathroom features a freestanding tub designed by Philippe Starck for Duravit, all enclosed in a recessed wall covered in texturized glass,” Azar says. The artwork above the bathtub is by Roberto Matta, and the chair is by Piero Fornasetti.
