la carreta
Sasaki Architects
ITESM Monterrey Campus, N.L. / México
steel structure
La Carreta is the central hub of the University TEC of Monterrey, serving as a gathering place for students, teachers, and
visitors. Originally a cafeteria, it has undergone a redesign by Sasaki Architects, transforming it into a versatile, open struc ture
multifunctional workspace and pavilion. The design of La Carreta emphasizes transparency, achieved by lightweight materials
such as glass and steel.
Our team was commissioned to develop the entire structure, including the louvers on the roof, as well as the crystal doors and windows. All elements were custom made, from the slim columns enclosing the MEP and rain drainage pipes to the louvers that cover the roof. The project was meticulously planned using a Lego like assembly method, with each element fabricated at Kinetica's workshop and subsequently installed on site by our team of experts. The implementation of the BIM methodology facilitated the engineering of the structure to ensure accurate installation and optimal functionality.
The design of the project features a single volume with a 6 meter (20 foot) cantilever on its periphery. Working closely with th e architects, we refined the overall structure to enhance its efficiency while preserving the original design concept. This inv olv ed adjusting the beam sections, transitioning from 80 cm (2' 7") near the columns to a mere 20 cm (8") at the edge of the canopy , creating an illusion of weightlessness.
Inside the beam structures also served as the plenum return air system for the HVAC. During installation, we designed and fabricated a temporary support system, eliminating the need for a general crane. This innovative approach allowed us to weld, paint, and maneuver the beam system efficiently, enabling us to work faster on site.
The crystal doors, with their non-standard dimensions, were manufactured with customized pivots for ease of handling. They can be operated conventionally or retracted, transforming the space into an informal and spontaneous environment capable of accommodating up to 500 people.
Our team was commissioned to develop the entire structure, including the louvers on the roof, as well as the crystal doors and windows. All elements were custom made, from the slim columns enclosing the MEP and rain drainage pipes to the louvers that cover the roof. The project was meticulously planned using a Lego like assembly method, with each element fabricated at Kinetica's workshop and subsequently installed on site by our team of experts. The implementation of the BIM methodology facilitated the engineering of the structure to ensure accurate installation and optimal functionality.
The design of the project features a single volume with a 6 meter (20 foot) cantilever on its periphery. Working closely with th e architects, we refined the overall structure to enhance its efficiency while preserving the original design concept. This inv olv ed adjusting the beam sections, transitioning from 80 cm (2' 7") near the columns to a mere 20 cm (8") at the edge of the canopy , creating an illusion of weightlessness.
Inside the beam structures also served as the plenum return air system for the HVAC. During installation, we designed and fabricated a temporary support system, eliminating the need for a general crane. This innovative approach allowed us to weld, paint, and maneuver the beam system efficiently, enabling us to work faster on site.
The crystal doors, with their non-standard dimensions, were manufactured with customized pivots for ease of handling. They can be operated conventionally or retracted, transforming the space into an informal and spontaneous environment capable of accommodating up to 500 people.
Architect: Sasaki Architects
Architect of record: GLR + RDLP
General contractor: GAYA
la carreta
Sasaki Architects
ITESM Monterrey Campus, N.L. / México
steel structure
La Carreta is the central hub of the University TEC of Monterrey, serving as a gathering place for students, teachers, and
visitors. Originally a cafeteria, it has undergone a redesign by Sasaki Architects, transforming it into a versatile, open struc ture
multifunctional workspace and pavilion. The design of La Carreta emphasizes transparency, achieved by lightweight materials
such as glass and steel.
Our team was commissioned to develop the entire structure, including the louvers on the roof, as well as the crystal doors and windows. All elements were custom made, from the slim columns enclosing the MEP and rain drainage pipes to the louvers that cover the roof. The project was meticulously planned using a Lego like assembly method, with each element fabricated at Kinetica's workshop and subsequently installed on site by our team of experts. The implementation of the BIM methodology facilitated the engineering of the structure to ensure accurate installation and optimal functionality.
The design of the project features a single volume with a 6 meter (20 foot) cantilever on its periphery. Working closely with th e architects, we refined the overall structure to enhance its efficiency while preserving the original design concept. This inv olv ed adjusting the beam sections, transitioning from 80 cm (2' 7") near the columns to a mere 20 cm (8") at the edge of the canopy , creating an illusion of weightlessness.
Inside the beam structures also served as the plenum return air system for the HVAC. During installation, we designed and fabricated a temporary support system, eliminating the need for a general crane. This innovative approach allowed us to weld, paint, and maneuver the beam system efficiently, enabling us to work faster on site.
The crystal doors, with their non-standard dimensions, were manufactured with customized pivots for ease of handling. They can be operated conventionally or retracted, transforming the space into an informal and spontaneous environment capable of accommodating up to 500 people.
Our team was commissioned to develop the entire structure, including the louvers on the roof, as well as the crystal doors and windows. All elements were custom made, from the slim columns enclosing the MEP and rain drainage pipes to the louvers that cover the roof. The project was meticulously planned using a Lego like assembly method, with each element fabricated at Kinetica's workshop and subsequently installed on site by our team of experts. The implementation of the BIM methodology facilitated the engineering of the structure to ensure accurate installation and optimal functionality.
The design of the project features a single volume with a 6 meter (20 foot) cantilever on its periphery. Working closely with th e architects, we refined the overall structure to enhance its efficiency while preserving the original design concept. This inv olv ed adjusting the beam sections, transitioning from 80 cm (2' 7") near the columns to a mere 20 cm (8") at the edge of the canopy , creating an illusion of weightlessness.
Inside the beam structures also served as the plenum return air system for the HVAC. During installation, we designed and fabricated a temporary support system, eliminating the need for a general crane. This innovative approach allowed us to weld, paint, and maneuver the beam system efficiently, enabling us to work faster on site.
The crystal doors, with their non-standard dimensions, were manufactured with customized pivots for ease of handling. They can be operated conventionally or retracted, transforming the space into an informal and spontaneous environment capable of accommodating up to 500 people.
