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SPACE10 Launches Beyond Human-Centered Design Pop-up in Mexico City

03.31.22 | By
SPACE10 Launches Beyond Human-Centered Design Pop-up in Mexico City

SPACE10, the independent research and design lab of IKEA, launched a 14-day festival in the heart of Mexico City’s Roma Norte district. The pop-up ā€“ designed in collaboration between spatial design lead Kevin Curran and creative studio NiƱos Heroes ā€“ transformed LOOT, a gallery space that consists of two main configurations, into an exhibition area and an office space.

The Copalera and Pebble lamp by Tezontle combine with a serpent canvas puff to create a loungy vibe where guests can gather.

Taking place until April 9th, 2022, the collaborative platform explores how design and technology can be a powerful force to create a better everyday life for both people and the planet. The space was meant to echo the streets of Mexico City, which served as the schematic for the spatial design. Both object and material solutions are flexible, including a series of floor-to-ceiling curtains that divide the space into three separate configurations when needed.

Everything from the materials to processes were produced by craftsman local to Mexico City or surrounding areas. As described by NiƱos Heroes, “We used only a handful of materials and processes: pine wood, metal and soldering, nails to arm and easily disarm the functional pieces, fabric that creates synergies between the two main spaces. We tried to make everything so it can be deconstructed and reused.”

The spatial design at SPACE10 combines organic and industrial materials with a thought to everyday processes like those seen on the streets of Mexico City including mobile plant carts and simple soldering of metal.

SPACE10 and NiƱos Heroes combine the minimalist design sensibilities central to the Copenhagen based lab with color and local materials such as hand-crafted neon, volcanic stone, and pine that celebrate traditional Mexican design traditions.

Whole planks of pine wood were used in the design and production of the curved tables by NiƱos Heroes to eliminate waste and to extend the possibility of the materialsā€™ life beyond the pop-up.

The Copalera sculpture by Tezontle burns incense to cleanse and purify the space.

Curtains separate the space into three segments for flexibility

Curtains separate the space into three segments for flexibility

Volcanic stone anchors a small table, a design reference and nod to the practical approach of how raw materials are used to improvise solutions on the streets of Mexico City.

Photos by Alejandro RamiĢrez Orozco.

Leo Lei translates his passion for minimalism into his daily-updated blog Leibal. In addition, you can find uniquely designed minimalist objects and furniture at the Leibal Store.