Casa Jardín Ortega (1942) by Luis Barragán. This project started out as the first house the architect designed for himself. The property was part of a larger parcel he purchased and subdivided. There was a small existing structure when he purchased it. The Ortega house is special, not only because it's so early in his career but it was also initially designed for the architect to use himself. It showcases many ideas Barragán would use over and over again in other works.
Barragán said this about the house: “In 1941, I made my first garden in Mexico City. I acquired a piece of land with different levels, I complemented and leveled different platforms to create a garden in compartments, recalling the beauty of the patios and gardens of the Alhambra and the Generalife in Spain“
Barragán lived in the house until 1947. He then sold it to Alfredo Ortega, a master silversmith. Barragan did not go far. The second and final house he built for himself is just next door and now operates as the Luis Barragan House and Studio.
The two continued to collaborate on what is now referred to as the Ortega house. It's still owned by the Ortega family and Alfredo's nephew conducted the tour. The home is in incredible original condition. It's full of original furnishings by Clara Porset and Luis Barragan. The term is overused but it really is a time capsule.
The first of many Clara Porset pieces.
