Formant Studio Designs Nota Tavern in Mexico City

Local design practice Formant Studio has completed the stunning interiors and custom furniture for Nota Tavern, a new Italian-American restaurant. Situated in Mexico City’s Escandón I neighborhood, the venue brings a unique international concept to the local culinary scene.

The restaurant occupies the preserved half of a former hacienda-style residence that was previously converted into apartments. This adaptive reuse project offers a fascinating glimpse into how historical structures can be reimagined for modern commercial use.

Architectural Translation and Context

The design concept serves as a contemporary architectural translation of classic neighborhood taverns found in Chicago. Instead of relying on over-the-top spectacle, the studio prioritized a sense of comfort and familiarity for all patrons.

Chicago Influences and Modern Masters

Formant Studio heavily incorporated stylistic influences from legendary Chicago architects Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Frank Lloyd Wright. These nods to 20th-century modernism help ground the space in a rich tradition of craftsmanship and structural honesty.

In true modernist fashion, the practice personally designed most of the interior’s furniture and custom fixtures. This meticulous attention to detail ensures a cohesive aesthetic that spans every corner of the dining establishment.

Interior Craftsmanship and Layout

The main dining space features walls meticulously clad in warm Mexican rosewood alongside custom banquettes upholstered in sleek black Kvadrat textiles. These rich materials set a sophisticated yet welcoming tone for guests enjoying a night out.

For professionals interested in exploring more about spatial transformations, checking out our comprehensive collection of architecture articles provides endless inspiration. Historic preservation often requires a delicate balance between old and new elements.

Preserved Elements and Custom Finishes

Ornate stone pillars from the original portico were carefully stripped of old paint to serve as a stunning central design feature. Near the entrance, a rich brown metal spiral staircase draws the eye upward to an exclusive upper-level private dining room.

The back of the restaurant houses a sophisticated bar outfitted with a mirror backsplash and matching rosewood millwork. Additional elements include polished grey terrazzo flooring, crisp sheer white tablecloths, and a curated selection of art and antiques provided by Galería Córdoba.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Formant Studio reinterprets the classic tavern at contemporary Mexico City restaurant