“Mixed-use complex” might sound boring but the Torre Reforma 222 is anything but. Here we are at Paseo de la Reforma 222. This complex significantly changed Mexico City’s urban landscape.
Let’s dive into the story behind this iconic structure. The Torre Reforma 222 comprises three towers. Mexican architect Teodoro González de León designed them. He also designed the National Auditorium and Museo Rufino Tamayo. Construction began in 2004. The complex opened its doors in November 2007.
The Torre Reforma 222 boasts 173000 square meters of space. It includes a glass-covered shopping center. The towers’ heights vary. Tower 1 and Tower 2 both reach 125.8 meters. Tower 3 stands at 93.4 meters. Tower 1 has 31 stories and is used for offices. Tower 2 has 26 stories and is mainly residential. Tower 3 features 19 floors.
Fun fact: The construction of Torre Reforma 222 involved what was said to be the deepest foundation in Mexico City’s history. The excavation reached nearly 100 meters deep.
The facade features a tempered glass structure. It uses extra-clear 20mm glass. This supports a double-glass envelope. The first layer uses 4.10-meter-high by 1.60-meter-wide extra-clear glass. The second layer uses tempered glass of the same dimensions but with a “Low E” coating. This coating controls ultraviolet ray emission. This design makes the facade energy-efficient and provides acoustic control.
The materials used included glass steel and reinforced concrete. Torre 1 with its 31 floors is dedicated to offices. Tower 2 with 26 floors is primarily residential. Tower 3 is also residential. The structure was completed in March 2007. Interior finishes were done by May 2008. The inauguration took place in September 2008.
Notice the towers’ unique shapes and colors. These features have made them prominent landmarks on Paseo de la Reforma. The two tallest towers quickly became some of the avenue’s highest buildings.
As you look up consider the blend of form and function. The Torre Reforma 222 stands as a testament to modern Mexican architecture.