Geometric abstraction meets vibrant color at Cuadra San Cristobal Los Clubes Luis Barragan. This is no ordinary stable. Cuadra San Cristobal stands as a testament to Luis Barragan’s unique vision. He blended modernism with the essence of rural Mexico. Imagine horses moving gracefully against a backdrop of pink walls. This estate was designed for the Egerstrom family. They were dedicated to equestrian pursuits.
Let’s delve into the story of this architectural marvel. Cuadra San Cristobal is located in Los Clubes. This is a residential area northeast of Mexico City. Barragan developed both Los Clubes and Las Arboledas. He transformed this formerly rural area. The project was commissioned by Folke Egerstrom. He was a member of the Club Hipico Frances. Cuadra San Cristobal helped establish an identity for Los Clubes. It projected an image of country-style living near the city. Barragan collaborated with Andres Casillas on the design.
Picture this: a vast walled courtyard. It contains a monumental fountain. The residence and horse stables are located at the edge. The first designs were developed between March and April 1966. The final layout was ready between May and July 1966.
The stables are near the north edge of the site. The residence is in the southern part. A paddock sits behind the stables. A smaller corral is placed to the west. A large area is reserved for a foal pasture. It includes a path to the Club Hipico Frances.
Barragan’s instructions detailed the landscaping. He specified the placement of new trees. These trees, mainly ash and alder, controlled key views. Construction occurred in two stages. The stables were built in 1967. The residence was completed by 1968.
A long pink wall defines the north-south axis. It divides the plot into two sections. The private spaces of the residence are to the west. The main residential spaces are east of the wall. Two large portals connect the different parts of the estate. At the center, a basin serves as a pool for the horses. A wall carries water to a large spout. This forms a monumental fountain.
The granary closes off the northern boundary. The large horizontal elevation is painted pink. It is flanked by a lower purple wall. Two slits provide ventilation to the hay. A small window illuminates a service room. The clean facade provides a backdrop to the courtyard. The thundering water and rough paving create a spectacular juxtaposition. The outdoor spaces become a staged setting. This elevates the experience of humans and horses.
The wall also defines the layout of the private residence. It separates the entrance and living areas from the bedroom wing. A staircase leads to a studio and roof terrace.
Cuadra San Cristobal embodies the principles of modernism. It evokes the ranches of rural Mexico. It is filtered through Barragan’s creative interpretation.
Armando Salas Portugal captured the project in photographs. He created two sets. One in black and white. The other capturing textures and colors. His images convey a tranquil scene. Equestrian rituals play out in a modern setting.
Cuadra San Cristobal quickly attracted visitors. Photographers documented its original appearance. The surroundings have changed dramatically. But the building complex has been preserved. The hayfields and racecourse have disappeared. New buildings have erased the serene surroundings. This was once part of Barragan’s vision.
Visiting Cuadra San Cristobal requires a bit of planning. Reservations are essential. The house itself is closed. But the stables, gardens, and exterior are worth the journey. The walls in pink and mauve create a restrained and colorful space. The large pool adds to the ambiance.
Cuadra San Cristobal stands as a testament to Barragan’s genius. It’s where architecture, landscape, and equestrian life converge.