Casona Los Cedros: A Boutique Hotel That Revives Yucatán Heritage Through Sustainable Architecture and Local Craftsmanship

In the heart of Espita, Yucatán, a forgotten colonial house has been lovingly transformed into the Casona Los Cedros Hotel, an architectural dialogue between past and present, nature and design. Spearheaded by Laura Lecué – Collectif COMO, this project exemplifies how sensitive restoration, traditional materials, and local artisanship can converge to create an immersive, sustainable boutique hospitality experience.

Rebirth of a Historic Home

Once abandoned for over 30 years, the original structure of the house had deteriorated, with collapsed roofs and damaged interiors. The restoration began with a respectful architectural approach—removing invasive concrete additions, reinforcing damaged woodwork, and restoring stucco walls using natural materials such as chukum, pixoy, lime, and locally sourced cedar wood. Vibrant cement mosaic flooring, typical of the Yucatán region, was added to celebrate local culture and infuse color into the subdued natural palette.

The house now accommodates the reception area of the hotel and the Casona Restaurant, becoming a new cultural and social hub for Espita.

Architecture Within Nature

Set within a lush tropical garden, the hotel’s layout responds to its verdant environment, integrating eight guest rooms, a covered-terrace restaurant, and a central infinity pool into the existing landscape. Rather than imposing on the site, the architecture respects and celebrates mature trees, weaving them into the design to serve as natural dividers and visual elements.

Vegetation defines privacy and views throughout. Each bedroom features generous windows that frame the greenery, while the bathrooms open to private patios, creating quiet oases of light and air.

Material Authenticity and Craftsmanship

One of the most distinctive elements of Casona Los Cedros is its emphasis on handcrafted design. Local artisans contributed deeply to the project:

• Bejuco lamps were handwoven by Mango, a local craftsman.
• Embroidered textiles were created by Marta, a resident of Espita.
• All furniture and wooden detailing were crafted by village carpenters.

This commitment to local materials and techniques not only supports the regional economy but also strengthens the building’s cultural authenticity and sense of place.

Sustainability Through Design

The project achieves environmental and cultural sustainability by using natural, pre-industrial materials, applying bioclimatic design, and engaging local labor and knowledge. The architecture is shaped by passive cooling principles, natural light, and cross-ventilation, making the spaces comfortable and energy-efficient throughout the year.

At night, the infinity pool becomes a tranquil centerpiece, mirroring the branches of surrounding trees and dissolving the line between architecture and nature.

All the photographs are works of Manolo R Solís, Diafragmas