Nestled in the arid, boulder-strewn terrain of the Valle de Guadalupe in Baja California, Mexico, the Hotel Encuentro Guadalupe is an "antiresort" that seeks to connect guests with the rugged landscape rather than separate them from it. Designed by Tijuana-based architect Jorge Gracia of Graciastudio, the hotel comprises 20 individual, elevated "eco-lofts" that appear to hover over the hillside, offering both privacy and panoramic views of the wine valley. The project was completed in 2011 and is part of a larger, 99-hectare development that includes a winery and a residential area.

From its inception, the design philosophy prioritized environmental preservation. To minimize interference with the land, the individual rooms were constructed as steel-framed pods and elevated on stilts, avoiding direct contact with the soil and allowing the local flora and fauna to continue thriving underneath. This "deluxe camping" concept provides guests with modern comforts while maintaining an immersive connection to the natural surroundings.

The exterior cladding of the eco-lofts is made of Corten steel, a material chosen for its rust-like appearance, which weathers over time to achieve a color palette that blends harmoniously with the desert environment.

The hotel's design embraces minimalism and simplicity, both in its materials and its layout. The interiors are clean and sober, focusing the guest's attention on the dramatic views framed by large windows. Outside, cantilevered decks and strategically placed pools are integrated into the rocky landscape, providing spaces for relaxation and contemplation. The approach to construction was also influenced by local economic and material conditions, with Graciastudio leveraging prefabricated construction techniques and locally available materials to realize the project efficiently.

For architect Jorge Gracia, the Hotel Encuentro Guadalupe reflects a commitment to sustainable, region-specific design that responds to the unique character of its location. The project has been recognized internationally for its innovative approach, which successfully balances high-end hospitality with ecological sensitivity.

Credits

Architecture: Graciastudio Jorge Gracia

Photography: Luis García

Operator: Grupo Habita