The Plan:
To develop a low-density multidisciplinary hospitality project at a large site with a unique ecosystem that we can take care of. Combine that environmental philosophy with an inspiring built environment while implementing sustainable design principles and materials.
To create staffing and collaborative programs to serve local small businesses and emerging professionals from underrepresented groups.
The Actions:
The Boca de Agua site consists of 82 acres with 260 meters of lagoon frontage, 90%+ of the land remains untouched and will be part of a conservation and regeneration program.
The treehouses are built using locally sourced, tropical hardwoods from nearby tree farms with felling programs certified by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).
The treehouses are elevated from the ground to minimize their impact and footprint on the site.
Waste waters go to a MBR (membrane bioreactor) water treatment plant. The treated water is then used for WCs and irrigation. No waste will ever end up in the lagoon.
Every mangrove specimen on site was properly mapped and the elevated wooden walkway was built around them. Not a single mangrove plant was removed or damaged.
One hectare of nearby mangrove ecosystem that had been previously impacted by human activity was replanted.
Furniture and amenities are mostly made with recycled materials by local artisans.
We work with NGO Con Mono Araña to study the behavior of spider monkeys that live in the Boca de Agua site and work with CMA on protecting and expanding the natural conditions that allow them to thrive.
Electricity is provided by Ammper, Mexico-based renewable energy supplier.
Amenities and consumables are custom made with natural and biodegradable materials by Laguna Cyprien.
For every single one of these decisions, there was a quicker, more affordable alternative. We could’ve skipped many studies and mapping. We could’ve overdeveloped and overbuilt. We could’ve used more affordable construction materials from abroad. We could’ve taken down trees for easier access. There are infinite “we could’ve”, and traditional “business” values will tell you that we’re not very bright. But we, as a project, believe that the traditional model for tourism in emerging destinations must change. We are obsessed about it, and hopefully, other hospitality projects will see what we’ve done here and try to take a similar route. We believe that regenerative hospitality does not have to be uncomfortable nor ugly, that regenerative hospitality is valued by travelers, and therefore, that projects like ours can become self-sustaining ventures.
Rodrigo Juárez
Founder Boca de Agua
