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First look at Esrawe Studio’s megalithic concept store and showroom for Grupo Arca
![](https://www.leisureopportunities.co.uk/images/imagesX/342199_887310_889523.jpg)
Mexican architecture practice Esrawe Studio have designed a minimalist warehouse and showroom for natural materials distributor Arca Grupo in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Called the “Design Center”, the 6,500 sq m building is inspired by ancient stone quarries and comprises a cafeteria, shop, library, multipurpose hall, and various interior and exterior exhibition spaces.
“A quarry is the evidence of man’s action on nature,” said Esrawe's principal, Héctor Esrawe.
“This is a 'manufactured landscape'," he added, “an organic architecture created by the trace of the search for raw materials, which brings us back to their origins.”
The focal point of the structure is a travertine-clad public area for speaking events termed the "Agora”.
According to the architects, the Agora, which connects visitors to the centre's retail and display areas, has a “museographic character”, serving primarily to educate customers about modern architecture.
Esrawe explained: “The Agora promotes learning and helps others to understand why and how architecture, design, art, and culture are generated in Mexico and worldwide.”
Other members of the project team included CDM Casas De México – the building contractor – and PAAR Paisaje Arquitectura.
![The materials showroom is home to a research library for architects and designers / Grupo Arca The materials showroom is home to a research library for architects and designers / Grupo Arca](https://www.leisureopportunities.co.uk/images/imagesX/HIGH342199_581469_436031.jpg)
![The showroom also has a coffee shop for customers / Grupo Arca The showroom also has a coffee shop for customers / Grupo Arca](https://www.leisureopportunities.co.uk/images/imagesX/HIGH342199_116003_135211.jpg)
![The 'Agora' space serves as a venue for public lectures / Jaime Navarro The 'Agora' space serves as a venue for public lectures / Jaime Navarro](https://www.leisureopportunities.co.uk/images/imagesX/HIGH342199_645681_604762.jpg)
![Grupo Arca also supplies bricks with a wide range of finishes / Grupo Arca Grupo Arca also supplies bricks with a wide range of finishes / Grupo Arca](https://www.leisureopportunities.co.uk/images/imagesX/HIGH342199_657209_120558.png)
![Products are on display to inspire creative applications / Grupo Arca Products are on display to inspire creative applications / Grupo Arca](https://www.leisureopportunities.co.uk/images/imagesX/HIGH342199_775826_949638.png)
![The attached warehouse holds a stock of natural stone / Grupo Arca The attached warehouse holds a stock of natural stone / Grupo Arca](https://www.leisureopportunities.co.uk/images/imagesX/HIGH342199_862188_350530.png)
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