In interior design, striking a balance between aesthetic style and the functional needs of a project is essential. In this regard, it is fascinating to see the diverse solutions that Colombian architects and designers have recently proposed. We have selected eight local projects that demonstrate a compelling balance between functionality and aesthetics in interior design.
Céntrico / Oficina Informal + Manuel Villa Arquitectos
Bogotá
Excerpt: Céntrico is a restaurant located on the 42nd floor of the iconic Police Pension Fund tower, which was designed by Fernando Martínez Sanabria in 1963 and later transformed into a hotel. The original purpose of this floor was to house the hotel's restaurant, which was initially envisioned as a French Baroque-style space. Years later, it was converted into a legendary electronic music nightclub that embraced the decaying aesthetic of the original design.
La Condesa / PLASMA NODO
Medellín
Excerpt: Designed far from the traditional standards of charcuteries, La Condesa aims to make its visitors feel special. From its highly detailed furniture to its food and drinks, the space is designed to evoke sensations, using shades of blue to create an atmosphere of relaxation and freshness. The establishment offers its guests a large bar, a fresh and comfortable dining room, and an outdoor terrace.
El Fabuloso / MEMA arquitectos + Colette Studio
Bogotá
Excerpt: El Fabuloso is one of Bogotá's most exclusive bars, located on one of the city's most upscale and busy streets. It features a wooden latticework structure designed to function entirely as an acoustic element.
The project's initial concept was inspired by the experience and atmosphere of a picnic—celebrating the daytime and enjoying a beautiful sunset. As a result, the venue was envisioned as a basket: one that contains various experiences and opens or closes depending on the acoustics and the views of the city.
Coca Cola Colombia / AEI Arquitectura e Interiores
Bogotá
Excerpt: This project aimed to improve the quality of life for its employees while reflecting the core essence of the brand. It was designed to be a fresh, pleasant, optimistic, and cheerful space. Spread across two floors, the project begins with an entrance hall featuring a handcrafted wooden ceiling that evokes the iconic Coca-Cola wave logo. The neutral palette utilizes white, black, beige, and natural wood tones, creating a perfect balance with the red accents distributed across other design elements.
9 ¾ Café + Librería / PLASMA NODO
Medellín
Excerpt: 9 ¾ is a cafe and bookstore specializing in children's literature, but where adults can also enjoy themselves. Believing that cities need warm, welcoming gathering places for learning and connection, the designers created a space that invites families and friends to learn while having fun together—a place where people can do more than just shop, but actually spend quality time. The children's areas feature small hiding spots and interactive elements where they can draw, lie down, and play while learning and enjoying a good book.
Proyecto Booking / AeI Arquitectura e Interiores
Bogotá
Excerpt: Named "The Land of the Thousand Shades," the project is inspired by Colombia, its culture, and its diverse facets, including textures, colors, handicrafts, and landscapes. Using various abstract concepts, the design seeks to depict Latin American cities like Bogotá, which are characterized by irregular urban layouts that generate asymmetry and organic spaces.
Oficinas Fundación de la Mujer / SDH Arquitectos
Bucaramanga
Excerpt: The open space of approximately 3,500 square meters was designed to house the new administrative headquarters of Fundación de la Mujer. Closed-office cubical typologies and open-office central courtyard layouts were implemented to direct movement throughout the project. Light-colored materials on both the floors and walls allow natural light to flood the interior, illuminating the central gardens. These green spaces are furnished with carefully selected seating and tables, chosen by the architects to add informal touches that reflect the company's brand identity.
AeI Headquarters / AeI Arquitectura e Interiores
Bogotá
Excerpt: This project is part of a pioneering group of buildings in Colombia registered for LEED certification in sustainable design and construction. Its design is based on sustainability parameters: core elements such as light quality, indoor air, water, and comfort create spaces that are not only energy-efficient but also healthy workplaces for the 90 employees, suppliers, and clients who interact with the building daily.
This article was written by Yamid Rivera. The translation is powered by AI.
