To innovate through a minimalist project, the architect must tread a thin and careful line between what is perceived to be the foundations of the aesthetic at hand, such as a penchant for amplitude, geometric compositions, and the much familiar white colour as the lead. But also, one needs to consider what it means to push its boundaries, such as employing a variety of colours with no fear. As expected, to push through such expectations comes with hefty challenges.

Located in the illustrious neighbourhood of Bosque de las Lomas, in México City, is the riveting Villa Rombo IV—named after the four volumes as one. The architect, Miguel Ángel Aragones, skilfully designed a love letter to old-school minimalism and a daring vision that transforms the dwelling when the sun goes down and night begins. It is blessed with plenty of symmetrical compositions in all rooms, making for a dynamic promenade between areas.

Each volume offers a series of bespoke features, from built-in furniture, geometrical cut-outs, unexpected stone spheres, and contemplative water mirrors. The social area is very much isolated from the ample social area, as the main floor acts a series of catwalks between the aforementioned water mirrors and lounges. The private area in the upper levels is clad with fewer openings and a private pool with carefully chosen vegetation.

When the sun bows out, the residence has the chance to reinvent itself. The lighting project offers vibrant neon-like colours throughout the house. It is not exclusive to a single room though, this breathes and dominates throughout all ambients. Adding an extra layer of geometry, each light offers new possibilities. The warmth of the orange haze, the calmness of the blue light, to the extravagant gaze of the purple and pink light. 

It is pure indulgence and a subversive act in architecture to unapologetically twist the minimalist prerogative at the flick of a switch.