Hotel Humano, the latest addition to Grupo Habita’s portfolio in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, offers a masterclass in contextual design. Located on a pedestrian street in the heart of La Punta Zicatela, a world-renowned surf destination, the hotel provides a haven for rest, relaxation, and connection with the local community. Designed by Plantea Estudio, the architecture seamlessly blends with the laid-back atmosphere of the Oaxacan coast, celebrating local craftsmanship and materials while offering a contemporary experience.
The design philosophy, inspired by the hotel’s proximity to the beach, manifests in a collection of buildings that exude a sense of effortless cool. Architect Jorge Hernandez de la Garza and his team prioritized natural materials, utilizing concrete for its thermal mass (crucial in the tropical climate), along with clay tiles, bricks, and tropical woods. This material palette not only grounds the hotel in its environment but also contributes to a sense of warmth and authenticity.
The lobby serves as a striking introduction to this design language. Double-height ceilings create a sense of spaciousness, while permeable latticed structures crafted by Adolfo Sánchez Rojas blur the lines between inside and out. This permeable quality is a recurring theme throughout the hotel, encouraging natural ventilation and fostering a connection with the surrounding environment.
The interior design further enhances the hotel’s connection to its locale. Custom textiles in dark orange, off-white, and wine tones, including exquisite quilts by Reina Silva of Dushill studio, add splashes of color and texture. These are complemented by bespoke furniture crafted from tropical woods by Javier Gómez, showcasing the region’s rich artisanal heritage. Indirect lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, further emphasizing the natural beauty of the materials.
This commitment to local craftsmanship extends to the hotel’s 39 rooms, including 8 suites. The layout of each room is designed to promote a sense of flow between sleeping, bathing, and relaxing areas. Freestanding walls and curtains provide varying degrees of privacy, while maintaining an open and airy feel. The use of handmade wine-colored tiles by San Pedro Ceramics, which line the shower, washbasin unit, and bed’s headboard, creates a unifying element throughout the rooms. Each room is further personalized with unique drawings by Mexico City artist Lucio Muniain, adding a touch of contemporary art to the artisanal setting.
Beyond the individual rooms, Hotel Humano offers a range of communal spaces designed for relaxation and socializing. The rooftop garden provides a tranquil escape with panoramic ocean views, perfect for enjoying sunsets or gathering around firepits. The central courtyard, featuring a pool, sun loungers, restaurant, and bar, serves as the social heart of the hotel. Lush tropical vegetation creates intimate nooks and a sense of privacy amidst the communal areas. The courtyard also houses an outdoor spa, complete with a sauna, cold plunges, and a massage room, offering guests a space for rejuvenation.
The culinary experience at Hotel Humano is equally rooted in the local context. Executive Chef Saúl Carranza oversees the al-fresco restaurant, showcasing fresh, regional dishes. Collaborations with renowned chefs, such as Marion Chateau of La Relève in Marseille, further elevate the dining experience.
Looking ahead, the forthcoming Beach Club, slated to open in summer 2025, promises to further enhance the hotel’s connection to the ocean. Featuring six private bungalows, an oceanfront pool, sun deck, and a grill-style restaurant, the Beach Club will offer guests an even more immersive coastal experience.
Hotel Humano stands as a testament to the power of contextual design. By embracing local materials, craftsmanship, and culture, Plantea Estudio has created a hotel that not only blends seamlessly with its surroundings but also offers a unique and authentic experience for its guests. It’s a place where surfing culture meets sophisticated design, creating a truly memorable destination on the Oaxacan coast.