The Historic Center of Chihuahua city has been included in the national list of Barrios Mágicos (Magical Neighborhoods). In January 2024, the state launched its own Traditional Towns program, with the first edition recognizing and five municipalities: Guerrero, Jiménez, Riva Palacio, Rosales and Allende

Statistics suggest that Chihuahua is one of the fastest-growing regions for nearshoring, along with Coahuila and Nuevo León. For this reason, Chihuahua will host the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals’ (AMPI) national convention next year, which is expected to attract more than 1,200 national and international real estate consultants.

Real estate opportunities in Chihuahua to look out for in 2025

Downtown Chihuahua city

On the corner of Avenida Independencia and Calle Morelos stands the historic building known as La Nacional, constructed in 1940. In its early years, it housed an insurance company. Recognizable by its quarry facade and foyer featuring onyx stone details, this building has been restored while preserving its original design. Some of the building’s apartments are currently for sale, and they are true gems, both for their historical value and modern touches.

Creel

Nestled in the enchanting woods of Creel, Chihuahua — a Pueblo Mágico located in the Sierra Tarahumara, home to the Rarámuri people — this cabin sits on a plot totaling 3,043 square meters. The home spans 91 square meters, is completely new and offers water and electric services. Undoubtedly, the added value of this property lies in its natural setting.

Cuauhtémoc

This classic rustic Mexican home is situated on a single floor. With a total area of 645 square meters and an equal area of construction, this space is filled with light, green areas, wooden floors, skylights and numerous windows. Among other amenities, it features five bedrooms, a foyer with a fireplace and a half bath, a bar, a wine cellar, a laundry room, a garage for three cars, solar panels, a hydropneumatic system and an alarm system. It is located in the third most important city in Chihuahua, known as the land of the three cultures for being the cradle of the Rarámuri, mestizo and Mennonite cultures.

San Felipe

Located in one of the most important neighborhoods of Chihuahua city, the state’s capital, this house is built on a single floor and features a beautiful terrace. It has a construction area of 279 square meters and a total area of 420 square meters and includes three bedrooms, three parking spaces and stunning wood floors. One of its greatest points is an apartment in the back, which is available for remodeling.

Saucito, Chihuahua city

Located in the “commercial, culinary and social heart of Chihuahua,” this loft boasts an attractive design and offers amenities such as a pool on its terrace and a dining room with a view. The space is filled with natural light due to its numerous windows. The building also features a gym and private security, among other facilities.

Villa Valle de Allende

Located Allende, in one of the municipalities recently designated as a Traditional Town by Chihuahua’s tourism authority, this house-apartment is situated in the heart of downtown, which is a gem in itself. The construction spans 193 square meters, with a total area of 229 square meters thanks to its small garden. It features two bedrooms, one and a half bathrooms and a well-thought-out layout.

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In addition to Sonora’s natural beauty, its rich history also serves as a profound source of inspiration for architectural creation. Old factories, disused warehouses and former prisons provide a canvas on which architects can freely express their creativity.

Follow along for our selection of some of the most original examples of new architecture in Sonora.

Architecture in Sonora: a conversation between the Colonial and the Contemporary 

Sonora House

This residence resembles something out of a fantasy world, showing off a Tim Burton-esque flair while also paying homage to the styles of Mexican architects Luis Barragán and Ricardo Legorreta. The house has gained fame for its originality and its story is equally extraordinary. 

Commissioned by a Mexican family, Russian architects Davit and Mary Jilavyan crafted this creation in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. Over time, the family stepped back from the project, allowing the architects to pursue their vision freely. Its garden, featuring cacti and biznagas, along with irregular windows and enchanting nighttime illumination, creates a perfect blend of surrealism and a lucid dream come to life.

Colegio San José 

A pair of 1950s warehouses pay homage to the grandeur of ancient cellars while intelligently integrating modernity and its technology. Designed by Carte Architects, this space houses the Colegio San José, an educational institution that champions architecture and innovation in Sonora. 

Sustainability is central to the Colegio San José’s design, which includes solar panels for generating electricity, a greywater treatment system for irrigating the school’s gardens and strategically placed roofing for solar protection.

Bar del Parque La Ruina

This establishment has rapidly become an architectural landmark in Sonora. Located in Hermosillo, the state capital, an old textile factory has been revitalized and transformed into a contemporary bar that serves as a hub for events, nightlife and gastronomy. 

A standout feature of La Ruina is its open spaces, which provide views of the sky while preserving the original walls. The design is unique, featuring a marble roof that stretches from wall to wall and aged mirrors framed in wood salvaged from the old factory.

Museo Regional de Sonora

A former prison inaugurated in 1908 now houses the Museo de Sonora, one of the state’s most significant cultural institutions. The building underwent careful restoration in 1982 by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), which has preserved much of the original architecture while providing contemporary restoration elsewhere. 

Today, the museum boasts 18 permanent exhibition rooms, five temporary exhibition rooms and a 130-seat auditorium with 130. Its beautiful stone facade and main hall, which features a glass ceiling, harmoniously blend modern additions with the original architecture.

Museo de Arte de Sonora

Inaugurated in 2009, the 5,000-square-meter building that houses the Sonora Museum of Art (MUSAS) stands as one of the state’s most complete cultural spaces. It includes spacious circulation areas, courtyards, warehouses, workshops, as well as office and residential spaces and six impressive exhibition halls. 

One of its main aesthetic features is the facade, adorned with polymer concrete panels and large transparent windows that create a striking contrast; its curvilinear shape is yet another distinctive element.

Museum and Library of the University of Sonora

Though this Hermosillo building dates back to 1948, its design is as fresh now as it ever was. It is currently the most photographed monument in the city, thanks to its Soviet-inspired architectural style, which also incorporates elements of traditional Arabic-Spanish design. One side of the building reflects functionalist architecture, while the interiors are elegant, showcasing touches of Art Nouveau. This structure is truly a gem.

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and collaborator for various outlets including Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

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Márquez asked Pedro Cab to modify the traditional Colombian outfit known as the liquiliqui into a guayabera. Prior to the ceremony, the writer announced that he would wear the “Caribbean national costume” to the event: the guayabera.

Pedro Cab was also responsible for creating guayaberas for celebrities such as Prince Harry of England and King Juan Carlos I of Spain. His legacy is undeniable; today, Ricardo Rosado Cab represents the third generation continuing the personalized creation of this beautiful garment.

What makes the guayabera special

The guayabera’s origins can be traced to the Caribbean, specifically Cuba, at the end of the 18th century. The story goes that a woman designed a garment for her husband to collect and store guavas, which is why the classic guayabera features four pockets. Interestingly, over time, Yucatán, Mexico, emerged as the capital of guayabera production, while the state of Veracruz adopted it as part of its traditional attire.

So, what makes a guayabera so special? In Ricardo’s words, “The guayabera is the quintessential etiquette garment in a tropical environment. The quality of the fabric, the aesthetics of the design, its elegance, and its freshness make it one of the finest pieces of clothing.”. This is why it is renowned worldwide. “It is very breathable, protects you from the sun, and is incredibly presentable,”, adds Rodrigo Rosado, Ricardo’s 27-year-old son and the fourth generation in his family to craft guayaberas. “Moreover, a good guayabera can last for decades,” he continues.

“Today, the variety of designs includes the Classic (featuring the four front pockets), the Presidential (so named because many Mexican presidents wear it, characterized by the folds on the chest), the Gala (used for formal occasions such as weddings), and the Industrial series with embroidery,”, explains Rosado Cab.

Originally, guayaberas were made from 100% cotton, but now industrial versions are primarily crafted from polyester. However, Guayaberas Cab offers handmade, personalized options in Irish linen, Italian linen, or 100% Swiss cotton.

The legacy of Pedro Cab Paas

There is no doubt that Pedro Cab Paas is a legend in the world of guayaberas. Ricardo recounts how his grandfather started the business: “He moved from Hocabá to Mérida and began making guayaberas himself. His initiative was extraordinary, especially for a specific quality: Each piece is personalized and handmade to this day.”

“A single piece takes at least 15 days to complete and is crafted by skilled tailors. In the case of the design known as Deshilado, it can take up to three weeks to finish. The Deshilado design is one of the most intricate because it includes handmade unraveling designs in the cuffs, collar, or chest,” says Rodrigo.

“My grandfather was self-taught; he possessed a natural talent and learned through observation, acquiring the empirical knowledge necessary to create personalized guayaberas for various body types — short, medium, and tall — rather than producing them in bulk,”, argues Ricardo.

The fine guayaberas are handmade. As for prices, a personalized one in Italian linen costs around 7,000 pesos, one in Irish linen around 3,000 pesos, one in 100% Swiss cotton costs about 5,000 pesos, and the industrial versions (a mixture of cotton and polyester) are around 700 pesos.

“The purer the fabric, the higher the quality. The more polyester you find in your guayabera, the lower the quality,” Ricardo explains.

A good guayabera is an investment for life. A personalized piece, crafted with tradition and high-quality fabric, is a timeless, flattering, and fashionable garment that will never go out of style.

What else do you know about Guayaberas?

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and collaborator for various outlets including Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

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Among its cultural wealth, the state’s architecture is a standout.  Cities like Veracruz, Tlacotalpan, Xalapa, Coatzacoalcos and Córdoba are architectural treasure troves. Between the 16th century and 1925, architecture in Veracruz was influenced by the Spanish colonial style, with Baroque and Neoclassicism being the most prominent architectural movements of the colonial period. Following the Mexican Revolution, 20th-century architects incorporated influences from styles such as Art Deco, Brutalism, Organicism, and Functionalism.

The 21st century is ushering in a fresh wave of architectural approaches in Veracruz too. Since the turn of the millennium, the state has been home to iconic architects like Enrique Murillo and Danilo Veras Godoy. Firms including Rafael Pardo Ramos, RP Architects, Open Arquitectura, Taller DIEZ 05, Taller ADC and Taller Multidisciplinar contribute to a new architectural identity in Veracruz. 

Foro Boca

One of the most remarkable public buildings in Mexico in recent decades is Foro Boca, designed by Rojkind Arquitectos. This venue, dedicated to music and the arts, features large volumes of concrete arranged dynamically. It houses a concert hall with a capacity for 966 spectators, accommodating classical, traditional and popular music performances, as well as theater, dance and film presentations. Located in Boca del Río, one of its primary objectives is to revitalize the city and create a place for encounter and creativity.

Toks restaurant

The Legorreta firm, continuing the legacy of the renowned architect Ricardo Legorreta, has transformed the 17th-century ex-convent of Santo Domingo into a charming restaurant.

Located in the historic center of Veracruz, this building is one of the oldest in the city, founded by the Dominicans in 1651. Over the years, it has served various purposes and the recent restoration aimed to keep its structural essence while introducing a refreshing touch of modernity.

Situated in the port of Veracruz, the Veracruz Business Center is an office building notable for its distinctive facade, which takes center stage. The designers employed innovative and cost-effective materials to create a unique facade pattern that blends elements of Brutalism and Functionalism. Inside, the sense of airiness and space is enhanced by natural light and high ceilings. Materia Arquitectónica, known for its emphasis on light, geometric patterns and open spaces, is the creative force behind this project.

Casa Iguana and del Árbol

Casa Iguana, designed by Obra Blanca, evokes a sense of being outdoors through its intelligent spatial distribution. The interplay of light, open space and the arrangement of the structures is remarkably creative. The house is essentially divided into three independent volumes connected by a bridge, delineated by three lattice walls made of adobe sills, which reinterpret the wall and balcony finials found in some traditional constructions of the region. The finish of the adobe walls is both elegant and minimalist.

Casa del Árbol, also designed by Obra Blanca, was conceived around a 9-meter-diameter ceiba tree, with some of its branches integrated into the interior elements. Full of light, glass and vibrant Mexican colors, yet maintaining a sense of sobriety, this house has become a new classic in Veracruz. The space is divided into three blocks, featuring interior courtyards in various areas of the residence, large windows overlooking the garden and protection from the sun’s rays provided by the expansive canopy of trees. The design encourages a gradual discovery of the ceiba trees and their elements.

Casa del Abuelo

Casa del Abuelo, created by Taller DIEZ 05 and located in the city of Córdoba, serves as a public care center for the elderly. Designed on a single level to facilitate mobility for its users, the space encourages engagement with the surrounding trees and is intended to promote communal activities and a sense of community. Its elegant and dynamic design enhances the overall experience.

The design of Plaza Marina Mercante by Taller DIEZ 05 is delightful. Overlooking the port of Veracruz, it was created to foster community interactions while inspiring contemplation and creating pauses within a cohesive space. Visitors are invited to walk through the area, while also finding spots to sit and appreciate the surroundings. Its concrete cubicles frame ocean views in an elegant manner. This public square is part of a larger urban regeneration project in the area and is now recognized as a valuable heritage site for the city.

The now-iconic Zoncuantla Apartments, designed by renowned architect Rafael Pardo Ramos and RP Arquitectos, emphasize views and nature, incorporating over 60 percent green space within the mesophilic forest along the old Xalapa-Coatepec highway. The design encourages contemplation of the environment, featuring four light-filled apartments with a facade that evokes materials such as wood, adobe and earth tones. This project is characterized by an abundance of terraces and a sense of openness.

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and collaborator for various outlets including Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

The post The new architecture revitalizing the state of Veracruz appeared first on Mexico News Daily

The Historic Center of Villahermosa, known as Zona Luz, was recently selected as a Barrio Mágico. Covering 143 hectares, this special area includes five fully pedestrianized cobblestone streets and is home to some of the oldest buildings in the city, along with shops, restaurants and cafes. 

The beauty of downtown Villahermosa has also been enhanced by factors that increase its value. According to the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI), real estate in Villahermosa has risen by between 20% and 40% in recent years. This, of course, makes it an attractive location for people looking for affordable real estate and a chance to savor life in the real Mexico.

What is special about downtown Villahermosa?

First and foremost, its history. The fact that the traditional neighborhoods of Villahermosa still stand today is largely a miracle. Founded between 1540 and 1557 by a group of Spaniards, the city endured systematic pirate sieges from 1557 to 1795. This was followed by the American invasion in 1846 and 1847, the French occupation from 1863 to 1864 and the Mexican revolution during the first half of the 20th century. 

In Zona Luz, you will find El Playón, where Tabasco’s first airstrip was located, as well as the traditional neighborhoods of Santa Cruz, Esquipulas, La Concepción and La Punta. The charm of this zone is accentuated by colorful buildings with an eclectic blend of neoclassical and baroque architecture. If you’re sightseeing in town, you cannot miss these iconic landmarks, complemented by the famous streets of Narciso Sáenz and Juárez: 

• Casa de los Azulejos, now home to the Tabasco History Museum
• The Juárez Institute
• The National Bank of Mexico Building
• The Tabasco Government Palace

The beauty of Villahermosa’s downtown is further enhanced by the recently restored Carlos Madrazo promenade overlooking the Grijalva River, which features seven hectares of restored sports facilities, 18,000 square meters of parks, and a nearly six-kilometer bicycle path, along with the restoration of Parque Los Pajaritos. Additionally, more than 150 shops located on Paseo Tabasco Avenue will preserve buildings of historical value as part of efforts to revitalize the area.

The rise of real estate in Downtown Villahermosa

The inclusion of downtown Villahermosa in the list of Barrios Mágicos has been a significant factor in the increase of real estate investments in the city. Earlier this year, former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador visited Villahermosa to inaugurate infrastructure projects as part of an urban improvement program, with an investment of at least 3 billion pesos.

Villahermosa experienced a boom in the 1960s due to the expansion of the oil industry in the area. Today, this sector continues to grow, contributing to the demand for rental and purchase of real estate in the city.

Villahermosa’s “warm climate, lush nature, and rich culture, with gastronomic options, outdoor activities, and a welcoming atmosphere,” make the city an ideal place to visit, according to a report by Coldwell Banker Real Estate.

The same document highlights the economy and opportunities associated with the energy sector, sustainable urban development with modern infrastructure, shopping centers, and amenities that enhance quality of life. It also emphasizes ongoing improvements in urban infrastructure, including roads, public transportation, and basic services. 

Additionally, the tropical climate supports an outdoor lifestyle, featuring abundant green spaces and terraces, as well as lush vegetation surrounding the city, including parks, lagoons, and ecological reserves such as La Venta, the incredible archaeological site featuring the famous Olmec heads.

If you’ve visited or invested in Villahermosa recently, why not let us know in the comments?

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and collaborator for various outlets including Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

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Projections for real estate in Mexico, both residential and commercial, for the period from 2024 to 2029 are optimistic. According to an analysis by Mordor Intelligence, the residential real estate sector in Mexico is expected to grow by 4.14% during this period. But what does investing in property here actually get you?

Well, look no further, because here is our selection of some of the best real estate deals currently available in Mexico.

Nature melds with modern architecture in Oaxaca

With a delicate and elegant design by architect Juan José Rivera Río, this construction blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces as its simple lines harmonize with the surrounding nature. Located in Huatulco, along the beautiful Pacific coast, this area is experiencing growth while maintaining a low profile compared to other Mexican beaches. Here, you will experience spaciousness and breathtaking views of the ocean. Amenities include saltwater swimming pools, a hydro-massage pool, a wellness center and a gym. The development offers houses ranging from 180 to 435 square meters in size, with two to four bedrooms and two to five bathrooms, depending on your preference.

Colonial elegance in the heart of Mérida

This colonial home in the Historic Center of Yucatán’s capital features beautiful architecture, with high ceilings, large windows and skylights that create a sense of open space and light throughout the property. The walls and ceilings preserve some of the original materials, adding a special charm with a modern touch. The ceramic floors, rustic doors, ironwork and expansive garden filled with amate, the sacred Maya tree, along with the original facade.

The property’s charms are only enhanced by its proximity to major landmarks like Parque La Ermita de Santa Isabel.

An eco-abode on the Oaxaca Riviera

This stunning architectural project is situated on one of the most beautiful beaches in Oaxaca, Santa Elena del Tule. The views from the property are spectacular, with the Pacific Ocean in front and the rock formations of the Sierra Madre del Sur surrounding it. The renowned architect behind this project is Bernardo Quinzaños of firm CCA.

The location provides a sense of intimacy and pristine nature, as it is only 40 minutes from Puerto Escondido. The property offers amenities such as massages, an outdoor jungle gym, a bar, an organic vegetable garden, meditation and yoga sessions and the option of a personal chef who can prepare dinners in the comfort of your home or provide cooking classes to help you learn new culinary skills. The construction size is 125 m², with 1-2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom.

An original gem in San Miguel de Allende

Casa Palikao is truly a gem in a town renowned for its quality of life. Located in the heart of San Miguel, the house dates back to 1764, with its iconic central courtyard and high ceilings reminiscent of the classic 18th-century haciendas. The renovation was overseen by internationally acclaimed interior designer Anne-Marie Midy and local landscape designer Timoteo Wachter. The property features seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms and a total area of 1,157 square meters. One of its main attractions is the beautiful pool at the center of the house.

The perfect house for entertaining in Valle de Bravo

Situated in a privileged setting with stunning views of a private lake and just a couple of hours from Mexico City, Cardo Santo was designed by the renowned architect Manuel Cervantes Céspedes. It is part of a collection of farmhouses following the farm-to-table concept. Each house features its own garden, and the community was envisioned as a gastronomic hub surrounded by trails, orchards, gardens and water features. The property offers four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms and 406 square meters of construction.

The quintessential Cuernavaca home

This property embodies a beautiful Mexican rustic design, reminiscent of ex-haciendas, yet with a distinct 1950s Cuernavacan style. The property features a spacious layout, a central pool surrounded by a lovely garden, adobe floors and talavera tiles. The house has a total area of nearly 660 square meters with 151 square meters of construction, and includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

A Puebla hideaway

This property spans 1,487 square meters and exemplifies the classical rustic style of Mexico. The house is all on one level, featuring high ceilings and mud floors that showcase its stunning beauty. It includes four bathrooms, three bedrooms, a beautiful pool, a garden and terraces.

Rustic sophistication in Tlalpan

Filled with light, this house features high ceilings and represents the rustic classical Mexican construction style that is both elegant and simple. Featuring wood and stone elements, the property includes three bedrooms and three bathrooms, with a total area of 660 square meters and 327 square meters of construction. Situated in one of the most beautiful areas in Mexico City, near the southern forest, the garden and layout of the spaces in this property are major highlights.

A turn-of the century palace in Santa María la Ribera

This area of Mexico City is undergoing growth and revitalization. Filled with colonial houses, the potential of this zone is remarkable. Cedro 328 is a prime example. Built in 1900, this property is currently undergoing restoration and transformation to create 14 apartments within a Porfiriato-era building with a central garden. The space is stunning, and the structure is awe-inspiring with its high ceilings, halls and patios. Each apartment features either one or two bedrooms and one or one and a half bathrooms, along with a kitchen, living room and dining room.

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and collaborator for various outlets including Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

The post 9 of Mexico’s coolest real estate offerings and where to find them appeared first on Mexico News Daily

In general terms, colonial architecture in Mexico developed during Spanish colonization, which began in 1519 and lasted until the first decade of the 19th century. Spanish Colonial houses feature unique construction elements such as high ceilings and rooms arranged around an inner courtyard, typically surrounded by columns. Gabled roofs provided ventilation, while balconies allowed residents to enjoy fresh air while maintaining their privacy and serving as a sign of social status. Baroque and Neoclassicism were this period’s most influential architectural movements.

During the 19th century, Mexican architecture was strongly influenced by European trends, both in building styles and materials, as the national elite worked to construct an image of a modern country. Neoclassicism remained strong, although there was a mix of styles being worked with. The Mexican Revolution opened a new chapter in Mexican architecture, with postrevolutionary modernization changing the face of the country’s cities. 

What’s referred to as traditional architecture mostly encompasses the periods before the Revolution. When exactly the newer movement of restoring traditional houses began is unclear, but what’s undeniable is that architects are creating breathtaking modern spaces while maintaining local and national heritage. Follow along for some of the most impressive examples of this movement — almost all of which you can book a stay in yourself.

Finca El Fortin 

This is amazing 16th-century building located within Hacienda Santa Cruz in Morelos. Its main house is an adaptation of the old town’s cathedral. The surrounding sugar cane fields and old ruins, combined with modern elements, create a dreamy composition.

The pool, library, and wooden staircase are beautiful. You can now rent it through an Airbnb experience that allows you to enjoy this historical setting while relaxing on an unforgettable holiday.

Tixnuc

Literally situated in the middle of the jungle, Tixnuc is a restored 17th-century hacienda located in the town of Samahil, 45 minutes outside of Mérida, Yucatán. The site lay in ruins for more than a century until a team of six star architects worked their magic: Jorge Carlos Zoreda, Mario Peniche López, Alejandro Vales García, Augusto Quijano, and the firm Muñoz Arquitectos. 

It is a very special place because the architects preserved the ruins with minimal interventions, such as a modern ceiling, doors, and floors and a small swimming pool. Nowadays, this place can be rented for events or vacations.

Casa Vagantes San Sebastián

This house in Mérida was built in the early 20th century, but you wouldn’t know it from the outside, as its designers have given it a delightful makeover. With a beautiful ceramic floor in shades of yellow and soft brown, the atmosphere will transport you back to the classic homes of the Mérida bourgeoisie. The design is both simple and refined. You can stay here through Airbnb, a delightful experience for your senses, while the pool in the central courtyard provides a refreshing escape.

Casa Escuela

A former school transformed into a residence for artists in the heart of Mérida, this building preserves most of its original walls, now worn by time. These interact with modern elements such as the furniture, floors, carpentry, a beautiful pool in the central courtyard, and some ceramics incorporated into the structure.

One of Casa Escuela’s unique features is that the facades have been preserved in their original state. You can stay in this house as a guest, use it for events, but its main purpose is to serve as an inspiring place for artists to develop their work through residencies. You will also find workshops, wellness events, and culinary experiences.

Casa Serena

In the heart of downtown Oaxaca, with a beautiful facade of wooden doors, you’ll find Casa Serena. Discreet from the outside, this house is a stunningly renovated space that combines the layout of colonial houses — such as the central courtyard with an included tree — high ceilings, and open spaces with modern handcrafted furniture and exquisite details like futuristic lamps. 

The colors of the walls, the outdoor bathtubs, the private patio, and the wooden paneling of the rooms create a perfect atmosphere of luxury and history. You can rent it through Airbnb, and it can accommodate up to 12 guests.

Casa Mezcla

Mérida’s Casa Mezcla is a 19th-century house that has become famous among lovers of Mexican architecture for being a perfect example of the balance between tradition and modernity. The pool area is inspired by the blend of the old wall and a rustic fountain that leads to a modern pool. 

The design of the central courtyard features a terrace with the classic arch of colonial houses, resulting in a beautiful aesthetic. The furniture is rustic, while the details of the house are very modern. The roof is adorned with plants, and you can enjoy delightful hammocks. You can rent this bed and breakfast through Airbnb or directly on their website.

Casa Moro

This 19th-century neoclassical house preserves the essence of the colonial homes in the old town of Guadalajara. The original floors, high ceilings, two courtyards, a large entrance hall, and some pieces of old furniture, mixed with modern details, create an experience that allows you to feel the atmosphere of the high-class homes of past centuries in Mexico. The house’s design is a great example of how the central courtyard can bring abundant light and air to the rooms. The interventions in Casa Moro are minimal, and this perhaps is its main charm. You can rent it on Airbnb.

Casa Sirena

A classic in downtown Mazatlán. With its eccentric pink facade, this house has been renovated into a delightful mix of pinks inside, creating a surprisingly peaceful atmosphere. EPArquitectos designed a small swimming pool in the central courtyard that resembles a beautiful fountain from inside the house. The design of the staircase is also an aesthetic jewel made of cement.

Casa Tepeji

Casa Tepeji, in Mexico City’s Roma Sur, is outwarly discreet. On the inside, it’s a work of art thanks to architectural designer Ombeline de Laage. This house lies steps from the house where Alfonso Cuarón filmed his 2018 hit ”Roma.” The ceramic interventions in the patio are astonishing for the contrast of colors they create. The kitchen, roof terrace, spacious bedrooms and handmade furniture designed by Javier Reyes and Chuch Studio are truly remarkable. You can rent it on Airbnb here.

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and contributor for Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily. 

The post The stunning traditional houses transformed into modern spaces appeared first on Mexico News Daily

In Oaxaca alone, there are  70 active communities engaged in the art of pottery, “preserving about 3,000 years of unbroken lineage shared through oral traditions and maintained through the practice of trueque, an exchange of goods as an economic system”, Aruna explained to Mexico News Daily. The state is home to the Sierra Mixteca and Sierra Sur, often compared to a “crumpled sheet of paper” due to its orography. This topography is one reason why the region’s rich cultural diversity, including its exquisite clay traditions, is preserved.

“I refer to it as the resistance of the clay, it has been so for thousands of years. The farther you travel from the capital in Oaxaca, the more you will encounter different types of clay, such as the mud from the Sierra Mixe, which is very special. At first, it may seem quite rustic, but once you start to touch and work with it, you notice the color and texture. You realize the mastery in the use of the earth and a sophisticated technique: they polish the pieces with river stones, which gives them a shine, closes the pores, and enhances the durability of the pieces from their land, for example”.

Learning to design together

When Aruna began visiting these communities — there are a total of six: four in Oaxaca, one in Chiapas, and one in Morelos — he realized that a genuine design proposal would require co-designing with artisans. This journey has fostered beautiful surprises, including “a deep and lasting bond with the families and a profound respect for the traditional clay and the cultural and ritual identity behind it,” he shared.

Aruna adopted collaborative design methods that resulted in unique creations, such as a lamp that also serves as a flower stand. One of the most poignant stories of this venture occurred after the 2017 earthquake in the Zapotec community of San Marcos Tlapazola, when a family unearthed ancient objects shaped like faces. Inspired by this aesthetic, the Faces series was born and has since become a hallmark of Oaxacan ceramics.

“I understood that I needed to delve deeper into the design and move beyond the designer’s desire for personal recognition in the pieces. I realized that the community members were interested in understanding and participating in the design process. This created a fascinating partnership, as they are the masters of their technique, while I bring a contemporary vision, respecting various boundaries and fostering a participatory design approach.”

Today, Sustancia collaborates with the community of Amatenango del Valle in Chiapas, Los Reyes Metzontla in Puebla, Ayala in Morelos, and in Oaxaca, with the Sierra Mixe communities of Las Flores and Tamazulapam del Espíritu Santo to create original designs. In the Valles Centrales, they work with San Marcos Tlapazola and Santa María Atzompa. Sustancia employs various techniques, including “burnished clay,” “red clay,” “glazed clay” and another known as “churro.” This technique involves making “churro” shaped rollers and using them to create the finished piece. At the end, it is smoothed with a cob or an olote and given another shape. They have their own polishing technique,” Aruna explains. 

The contemporary and the millenary

Sustancia is an artisanal interior design company that intertwines research, knowledge, traditions, techniques and identity with contemporary creativity to the forefront of the current scene. 43% of sales go directly to the families, 30% cover operating expenses, and the remaining 20% is allocated to research, combining social design principles with solutions to specific community needs.

Regarding the Mexican interior design landscape and its connection to ceramic traditions, Aruna believes a revaluation of this millenary jewel is taking shape. This movement began with academic and research initiatives reflected in iconic publications such as Great Masters of Oaxacan Folk Art and Clay and Fire, leading to a growing market that embraces this knowledge and the ritual energy embodied in clay.

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and contributor for Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily. 

The post How one interior designer is using ancient pottery techniques to create modern art appeared first on Mexico News Daily

In Mexico, there are at least two significant rankings that focus on the quality of hospitals. One is compiled by Newsweek in collaboration with market and opinion research company Statista, based on parameters such as hygiene, doctor-patient ratios and user opinions. The other is a collaboration between the Mexican Health Foundation (Funsalud), which represents health industry interests, and consulting firm Blutitude, along with news outlet Expansion.

Based on these studies as well as Google user ratings, we present the best hospitals in Mexico City, taking into account aspects such as specialties, technology and upgrades.

Hospital Médica Sur

Located in one of Mexico City’s most renowned medical districts, this hospital is a classic in the city. Founded 43 years ago, Médica Sur was the Mayo Clinic’s first partner outside of the United States and is the only one of its kind in Mexico. The hospital’s facilities are spread out across three towers with beautiful lighting.

One of Médica Sur’s advantages is that it accepts most major medical insurance plans and offers discounts on parking and meals for those who enter through an insurance company. The hospital rooms are similar to private suites, and if you don’t want to pay for an additional room, a companion can access a free sofa bed.

For foreigners or those visiting Mexico for medical reasons, the hospital has a Department of International Medicine that provides support, transportation services and even accommodations in a hotel. Additionally, the hospital houses highly specialized clinics and offers a robotic surgery program.

IMSS – Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI

Siglo XXI is one of the most historic and influential institutions in Mexican medicine. Located next to the Centro Médico Metro station in Roma Sur, its facilities are adorned with beautiful murals and artwork by the renowned David Alfaro Siqueiros.

This medical center receives patients from all over Mexico who require specialized care for complex diseases, such as cancer, and has served 12 million people. The complex’s Specialties Hospital is 60 years old and holds the rank of High Specialty Medical Unit (UMAE).

Siglo XXI is known for the quality of its staff and its specialization in areas such as oncology, cardiology and pediatrics. Known for its excellence and vast facilities, it also offers libraries, computer areas, cafeterias, restaurants, banks and an Oxxo.

Centro Médico ABC Campus Santa Fe

Also known as the American British Cowdray Medical Center, it was the first hospital in Mexico to achieve Magnet status, a prestigious recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. ABC, whose main campus is located in Santa Fe, is known for its highly specialized centers and its emphasis on preventive medicine programs.

ABC’s facilities include insurance modules, bank branches and restaurants. Its technology is first class, and one of its unique features is a robot that will guide you to the office or area of the hospital that you need.

IMSS – Centro Médico Nacional La Raza

Located in the neighborhood of the same name in Azcapotzalco, this medical complex is characterized by its highly specialized units that offer medical procedures exclusive to this center: its heart transplantation program, for example, has become the most successful and productive in the country and Latin America. The research and pioneering work in Mexican medicine conducted here make La Raza an extremely important institution.

Among its advantages, La Raza is the only hospital in the country with a Clinical Toxicology Department and the only one with a Corneal Tissue Bank. Additionally, it offers 47 specialties and is a pioneer and leader in the treatment of rare diseases, such as spinal dystrophy, with multidisciplinary care from various specialties. The facilities offer state-of-the-art technology and house murals of historic value by renowned Mexican artists David Alfaro Siqueiros and Diego Rivera.

Hospital San Ángel Inn

This five-campus hospital network is known for offering “surgical packages” for procedures such as general surgery, laparoscopy, obstetrics and gynecology and oncology, among many others. In addition, they run promotions each year for services such as ultrasounds, cardiac physiology assessments, endoscopies and CT and MRI scans.

This hospital network offers 50 specialties and is also known for its advanced technology used in its surgical, imaging, intensive care, emergency and inpatient departments and the modernness of its facilities. It offers first-class facilities, highly sanitized, modern and first-class technological equipment, in addition to comfortable bedrooms.

Hospitales Ángeles

The network is known for its surgical specialties, which include cardiovascular, plastic and reconstructive surgery, as well as pediatric specialties such as neonatology, pediatric oncology and pediatric surgery. Of the 27 Ángeles hospitals nationwide, 10 are located in Mexico City.

The network stands out as one of the few facilities with robotic surgery centers and is famous for its Mexican Institute of Neurosciences, located at the Hospital Ángeles de las Lomas. This hospital is a place of excellence worldwide with great neurologists and psychiatrists. With state-of-the-art technology and modern installations, its rooms are very pleasant and full of light.

Hospital Español de México 

With historical roots dating back to 1842, this hospital in Polanco was originally established to help “truly needy” Spaniards. It has high-quality certifications and employs doctors with distinguished careers. The Hospital Español offers services ranging from a maternity ward to a nursing home for the elderly. With nearly 500 beds, it is one of the largest hospitals in Mexico. There is also ample space for visitors, who can request a room or stay in the patient’s room.

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and collaborator for various outlets including Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

The post A guide to the best hospitals in Mexico City appeared first on Mexico News Daily

Bacanora packs a stronger punch than these more famous agave spirits (a list which also includes raicilla), with an alcohol content ranging from 38% to 55%. Perhaps it’s this potency that led to bacanora being banned for 77 years until it was finally legalized in 1992 and granted the prestigious Denomination of Origin label in 2000.

This distinctive spirit is made from the Agave angustifolia pacifica, commonly known as espadín or yaquiana, in the town of Bacanora in Sonora. While production began around 300 years ago, bacanora’s roots stretch back much further. Historians believe its ancestor was a fermented agave drink called tehuimas, crafted by the Opata tribe for ritual celebrations.

Bacanora, as we know it today, began to take shape with the arrival of the Spanish, who introduced the alembic still, transforming the production process through distillation.

What makes bacanora truly special?

Bacanora isn’t just another agave spirit. Unlike tequila and mezcal, which can be mixed with cane sugar or other sweeteners, it is made from 100% agave. It also boasts a unique smoky flavor, derived from the use of underground ovens to roast the agave stalks — unlike the steam ovens typically used for other agave spirits. The result is a spirit that combines smokiness with a surprisingly sweet taste.

True bacanora is only made from Agave pacifica, unlike tequila, which is made from blue agave, and mezcal, which can be produced from 12 different species of agave.

But perhaps the most memorable aspect of bacanora is its artisanal production process. What sets it apart from other mezcals is the second distillation of the liquid. The first distillates, known as “The heads,” are collected with a very high alcohol content. This liquid, with clusters of small bubbles called pearlites, becomes bacanora when it reaches between 20 and 30 degrees of alcoholic purity. 

When the bubbles quickly disappear, the container is changed, and the final part of the distillation called the tails, is collected, consisting mostly of water. The final step is to blend the bacanora with the heads to adjust its alcohol content, a process known locally as compounding.

Another remarkable feature of the drink is its exclusivity — it can only be produced in 35 municipalities in Sonora. In contrast, tequila is made in several states, including Jalisco and Nayarit, and mezcal in regions across south and central Mexico.

Where can you find bacanora in Mexico?

Bacanora is enjoying a resurgence in popularity, especially since receiving its Denomination of Origin in 2000. Today, annual production is estimated at 250,000 to 300,000 liters. However, according to the Regulatory Board, more than half of this comes from unregistered brands, highlighting the spirit’s enduring artisanal nature. To give you a sense of its rapid growth, between 15 and 20 new bacanora brands have been launched in just the past five years.

You can find bacanora in stores across Mexico, including La Europea, La Castellana, and even Sears. Many brands also have websites where you can purchase directly from the producer. For those interested in smaller, artisanal producers, social media platforms like Facebook are excellent resources for discovering new options.

¡Salud!

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and collaborator for various outlets including Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

The post Bacanora: Agave’s lesser known (and much stronger) spirit appeared first on Mexico News Daily