Cadena + Asociados

Ignacio Cadena studied architecture in Los Angeles, where he also founded his studio Cadena + Asociados. A while later he returned to his native Mexico, growing the multidisciplinary practice. Today they often work in collaboration with architectural practices, deeply involved in both the interior design and branding of projects.

Working with Rojkind Arquitectos they created branding for the bustling Mercado Roma food market. Bold black and orange provide the palette for both the interior and the graphic language unifying and defining over sixty vendors under a singular identity. In partnership with Landa & Martinex and Weyes Studio, they created Mercato Gentiloni a fusion Italian and Mexican cuisine with a number of restaurants, a cooking school and an events space, which are brought together through the interior design, each with a singular character. The exterior features raw brickwork celebrating the industry of the city of Saltillo and quirky collages by Don Emanuel.

In Mexico City, the partnership’s design for indoor cycling concept for Siclo places equal importance on the community space as it does on the classes. The social ‘arena’ which features a shop can flex to host events, classes or just provide a cool and inviting place to hang out.

Working with his brother, award-winning chef Ignacio Cadena he designed the restaurant Hueso (Bone). The intriguing interior, inspired by a Darwinian vision, is decorated with 10,000 bones carefully arranged by visual artists. Running down the centre of the restaurant, and ascending steps, is the fifty-four seater table which encourages a communal spirit in this fine dining restaurant.

Casa del Agua, Cielito Querido Café and Gelatoscopio are just three of the projects that Cadena have worked on in partnership with Hector Esrawe. In the playful Gelatoscopio, customers peek into funnels to experience other worldly visions through kaleidoscopes, mirrors and magnifying glasses extending the happy feelings experienced through enjoying their ice-creams.

Another project for Ignacio, CarbònCabròn, provides a stark contrast to Hueso. The restaurant uses monochromatic materials palette, 6,300 scorched logs, five communal tables, one open kitchen and a large wooden structure to create a rustic environment that pays homage to the charcoal grill and the restaurant’s cuisine.
Whether working alone or in partnership with other practices, Cadena + Asociados create exciting and sensorial design concepts, which have people and community at their heart.