Soul, Brazilian / Heart, Mexican-Chilean

Written by David Solís

(Translated) In the dynamic world of interior design, few projects manage to capture the essence of two cultures as distinct and vibrant as Mexican and Brazilian. This residence in Dallas, Texas, is a testament to how art and design can intertwine to create a unique and evocative space. This house, owned by a couple originally

from Mexico City, pays homage to Brazilian modernism and the Mexican roots of its owners.

The residence is a spacious, sprawling single-story home, originally designed and built in the late

1970s. The renovation, overseen by architect Marc McCollum & interior designer Joshua Rice, transformed the property into an almost entirely open plan, except for a few private areas such as the guest suite,

the office, three children's bedrooms, and also the master suite. The house extends in a linear design that

follows the course of a stream in the backyard, creating a harmonious connection with the surrounding nature.

The owners, now residents of the United States, lived for several years in Brazil before moving to Dallas.

During their time in the South American country, they developed a deep interest in Brazilian modernism and collecting art and design pieces. This passion is reflected in every corner of their home, where works by Joaquim Tenreiro and Sol LeWitt stand out against a neutral background, while the rich tones of rosewood and pietra greystone add striking accents.

The interior design of the house is characterized by a warm and neutral color palette that evokes elegance and tranquility. The natural pigments of the materials create a cozy and inviting atmosphere complemented by white oak floors. As Joshua Rice explains: “Because the clients had spent their lives in Mexico and Brazil before Dallas, they had developed a taste for the warmth and richness of the architecture of these countries.”

Rice wanted to expand and enhance the owners' collection of Brazilian modernist pieces. Characterized by bold forms, innovative design, and local cultural elements, these works complement the home's narrative and capture the vibrant identity of Brazil and its pursuit of modernity.

One of the most striking features of the house is the lower-level living room, which creates spatial dynamism and visual interest without the need for walls, adding a sense of spaciousness and fluidity to the residence.

The property is not only impressive on the inside. On the outside, it boasts a large swimming pool, an outdoor living space, a public-sized playground, and its own tennis court. These areas provide a perfect place for entertainment and leisure, seamlessly integrating with the home's interior design.

The renovation project took four and a half years from start to finish. "The scale of the project increased

once the owners saw the progress and recognized the potential of the house," says Rice. This lengthy process allowed the designers and owners to refine every detail and solidify the home as a sanctuary of art and design.

This Dallas residence is more than a house; it is a tribute to the cultural influences of its owners and a testament to the power of design to transform spaces. The combination of Brazilian art and design with 1970s modernist architecture creates an environment that is both sophisticated and welcoming, reflecting the rich history and passions of its inhabitants.

Photography: Robert Tsai, Pages: 68-75