Hotel Terrestre

A sustainable, off-grid and 100% solar-powered hotel in Oaxaca.

Located close to Casa Wabi, the Tadao Ando-designed cultural center with artist residencies, Hotel Terrestre is nestled between the mountains of Puerto Escondido, Mexico, and the ocean. Architect Alberto Kalach of Taller de Arquitectura X (TAX) designed the hotel as a tranquil oasis that immerses guests in nature with refined and simple spaces. Fernanda Romandia and Diana Backal completed the interior design of this Grupo Habita boutique hotel. Envisioned as a retreat that engages the senses, the complex also has a sustainable architectural design. This 100% solar-powered retreat features only locally sourced materials that give a rich tactility to both outdoor and indoor spaces. Encouraged to disconnect from their urban lives and from technology, guests can relax completely here as they take in the breathtaking views, then slow down and synchronize their days with the cycle of the sun.

Earthy materials that give a rich tactility to private villas.

The studio used earthy materials for the hotel and its 14 private villas. Rammed earth, brick, wood, clay and sand complement concrete floors that provide a cool surface to walk on barefoot. Plus, innovative building techniques allowed the team to cool the hotel naturally, without air conditioning. Custom-designed by Mexican architect and designer Oscar Hagerman, the bespoke furniture pieces enhance the materiality of the suites. Slatted wooden doors and windows open the villas to private terraces and gardens. Additionally, each villa has a private pool along with an outdoor shower, and lounge areas with hammocks.

Made locally, the furniture and decorative objects are infused with fragrant copal resin. The landscape becomes a part of the decor, from the lush vegetation to the water of the Pacific Ocean. While encouraged to disconnect from gadgets, guests do have access to free Wi-Fi and to wireless speakers. Hotel Terrestre also features an open-air restaurant that serves Mexican and Mediterranean dishes made with local ingredients. Guest can also use a communal circular pool, a long swimming lane, or visit the spa that features four chambers that offer hot, tepid, cold, and steam bathing. The hotel also provides access to a viewing platform where guests can admire views of the mountains and the ocean. Apart from the hotel’s amenities, they can also enjoy Puerto Escondido pristine beaches, surf, hike, or visit the area’s many archaeological sites, mezcalerias and restaurants. Photography © Fabian Martínez.