Enjoy 2 free articles a month. For unlimited access, get a membership now.

Atelier Playa Mujeres

Curioso

SAVE SUBMISSION
Silver

1 / 22

Comments
Innovation
Functionality
Creativity
Eco-Social Impact
Total
JURY VOTES
Hotel
6.55
7.45
7.27
7.82
7.27
Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes
Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes CEO at AKKA Architects
6
4
7
4
5.25
Hu Zhile
Hu Zhile Founding Partner and Design Director at WJ Studio
6
6.5
7.5
6
6.5
Bernardo Tribolet Tribolet
Bernardo Tribolet Tribolet Head of Trend Scouting at The Swatch Group
6
4
6.5
4
5.13
Edmond Huot
Edmond Huot Chief Creative Officer at Forward Media
5.57
3.35
3.9
4.11
4.23
Felipe Mora
Felipe Mora Founder and Creative Director at F05 Studio
7
3
8
5
5.75
Ellen Søhoel
Ellen Søhoel Interior Designer/CEO at XBD Collective
7.5
4
7.5
5
6
Gabriela Sanchez y Sanchez de la Barquera
Gabriela Sanchez y Sanchez de la Barquera Creative Chief Officer at Vlisco
5
5
5
4
4.75
Serge-Laurent Haelterman
Serge-Laurent Haelterman Creative Director at Creneau International
6
5
6
4
5.25
Tessa Duste
Tessa Duste Cofounder at Makers of Sustainable Spaces
6
6
6.5
4
5.63
Jason Steere
Jason Steere MD Brand & Experience at The Social Hub
6.5
4
7
4
5.38
Stephanie Crombie
Stephanie Crombie Architect / Head of Sustainability at Morrow + Lorraine Architects
6
4
6
4
5
Designer
Client
Atelier de Hoteles
Floor area
70000 ㎡
Completion
2019
Photography and Video
Guestroom Furnishings
Plumbing Fixtures
Public Area Seating
Outdoor Furnishings
Architect

Atelier Playa Mujeres redefines Cancun’s all-inclusive coastal experience by honoring the destination’s Mayan history and natural beauty. This is a new kind of luxury, informed by craftsmanship and contextual materials rather than extravagance. Surprisingly simple solutions using natural, humble resources with a focus on volume and space create an authentic Yucatan experience that is also ultra-luxurious. The design embraces the subdued energy intrinsic to the destination. It supports and reflects the calming, tranquil and understated atmosphere carefully, creatively preserved. A soothing palette of stone, wood and local chukum are a consistent pulse throughout myriad venues. The spa is a functional example of this contextual approach. In homage to Cenotes - deep, hidden sinkholes cherished by Mayans - natural limestone, organic foundations jut out from seemingly bottomless pools, reflecting deepest blue shades, evoking peace and revitalization. With a handmade hospitality mantra, sustaining and utilizing local resources was foremost. Priceless native mangroves were honored and central to the spa experience. Community masters of their trade crafted local stone and chukum stucco. Millwork and custom furnishings were sourced from the Yucatan. A sense of place and community reflecting distinctly Mexican values and qualities were key to creating an immersive experience. This design celebrates Mexican ideals and Yucatecan culture. The majority of the work to create this new-construction property was done by local artisans. The lasting impact is one that benefits the community just as much as guests.