Puerto Escondido Architecture: La Flia Phase 2 Marks New Chapter in Architectural Renaissance

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Along the pristine coastline of Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, a remarkable architectural evolution is taking place. Puerto Escondido architecture has entered a new era as the area known as La Barra has emerged as a magnet for some of the world’s most innovative architects, each contributing to a stunning collection of sustainable luxury developments that respect and celebrate the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

 

Puerto Escondido Architecture Transforms La Barra

At the forefront of this architectural renaissance is Michel Rojkind, whose latest project, La Flia Phase 2, exemplifies his visionary approach to contemporary design. Since founding Rojkind Arquitectos in Mexico City in 2002, Rojkind has earned international recognition for his outside-the-box mentality and unwavering focus on the human experience. His collaboration with Chris Luce in Rojkind + Luce brings together their shared commitment to innovation, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Rojkind’s background in both engineering and architecture informs his approach to creating visually stunning, structurally efficient, and sustainable buildings that push the boundaries of conventional design through the exploration of uncharted geometries.

 

La Barra: An Architectural Hot Spot

The area has attracted an impressive roster of world-renowned architects, each contributing their unique vision to this evolving landscape. Casa Sforza, conceived by entrepreneur Ezequiel Ayarza Sforza and designed by celebrated architect Alberto Kalach of TAX Architects in collaboration with Nicolas Schuybroek and Moisés Micha, stands as a testament to innovative design. Its distinctive stone arches and vaults not only provide earthquake resistance but also create natural airflow throughout its 11 loft-style suites.

Adding to the area’s prestige is the upcoming Kymaia Hotel, set to open in January 2025. This nature-centric retreat, another project by Ezequiel Ayarza Sforza in collaboration with the renowned Mexican studio Productora, features twenty-two suites thoughtfully integrated into the terrain. The development’s pyramid-inspired structures and careful material selection of stucco, clay, and local wood demonstrate the region’s commitment to blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.

The recent completion of Toro House by Estudio Carroll further showcases the area’s architectural diversity. This private residence responds to rising global temperatures with energy-efficient design principles while maximizing its elevated position to capture panoramic views of both ocean and mountains. The ongoing construction of a new hotel project by internationally acclaimed architect Frida Escobedo, situated between Casa Mona and Sforza, adds another layer of architectural excellence to this already impressive collection.

 

The Power of Synergy in Coastal Development

The concentration of architectural masterpieces in La Barra is no coincidence – it represents a new pinnacle for Puerto Escondido architecture and demonstrates a fundamental principle in hospitality and real estate development: the power of synergy. Successful destinations are rarely built in isolation; they thrive through the careful orchestration of complementary establishments that create a complete experience for visitors and residents alike. Each new development in La Barra strengthens the area’s appeal, creating a virtuous cycle that benefits all stakeholders.

This synergistic approach has proven particularly effective along the Oaxacan coast, where individual hotels and residential projects gain value from their proximity to other high-quality establishments. When guests at Casa Sforza can walk to dinner at La Flia’s FAUNA restaurant, or residents of Toro House can enjoy the wellness facilities at Kymaia Hotel, the entire community becomes more attractive to discerning travelers and potential homeowners. This network of premium amenities, each with its own architectural significance, creates a destination that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

The success of this model extends beyond La Barra to other areas of Puerto Escondido and the broader Oaxacan coast, where thoughtfully planned developments are creating new nodes of activity and interest. These clusters of complementary establishments not only enhance the visitor experience but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of the region by supporting local businesses, creating employment opportunities, and attracting continued investment in quality infrastructure and services.

Read more: Exploring the Architectural Projects of Puerto Escondido: A Design Lover’s Guide

 

La Flia: A Vision of Sustainable Luxury

Within this context of architectural innovation, La Flia emerges as a standout development that perfectly encapsulates the region’s commitment to sustainable luxury. The name “Flia,” a casual abbreviation of “familia” in Argentina, reflects the project’s emphasis on community and togetherness. Conceived by two Argentine nationals, the development represents a thoughtful response to post-COVID demands for meaningful connections and sustainable living, while contributing to the local community’s economic revival through eco-tourism.

 

The Evolution of La Flia

The story of La Flia began with Phase 1, a collection of six meticulously designed eco-villas that established the project’s commitment to sustainable living. These initial villas, each featuring an open-style main palapa, private plunge pool, and stunning ocean views, created a self-sustaining community that harmoniously blends with its natural surroundings. The success of Phase 1, with its emphasis on eco-friendly materials and traditional Pacific coastal architecture, laid the groundwork for an even more ambitious second phase.

 

Phase 2: Expanding the Vision

La Flia Phase 2 dramatically expands upon the original concept, transforming a 2,772 m² property in Barra Colotepec into a stunning complex that pushes the boundaries of sustainable luxury. Just steps from the beach, the development is designed as an open, permeable structure that maximizes its connection to the surrounding environment.

 

Residential Spaces

The development features 12 sophisticated apartments, each offering 118 m² of living space complemented by 38 m² of private terraces with jacuzzis. These thoughtfully designed condos are made up of the entire floor with ocean-view kitchen and living areas, the master bedroom on the back has mountain views oriented to capture the mountain breeze. In addition, each condo has 2 terraces with private plunge pools.  The layout ensures that each unit benefits from natural light and optimal airflow, creating comfortable living spaces that minimize energy consumption.

Hotel and Dining

The project’s hospitality component comprises 12 luxurious hotel suites, each spanning 50 m² with private terraces ranging from 13 to 25 m², some featuring private jacuzzis. The upper levels house panoramic terraces and the development’s signature restaurant, ‘FAUNA,’ alongside reception areas. This 73 m² culinary space promises to become a destination in itself, offering dining experiences that match the stunning views.

 

Comprehensive Amenities

La Flia Phase 2 goes beyond traditional development amenities, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of facilities that promote wellness, creativity, and community connection. These include:

• A striking 50-meter pool with a poolside bar
• Fauna Restaurant
• Juice/smoothie bar
• 2 Rooftop bars
• A state-of-the-art yoga studio and gym
• A comprehensive wellness center
• A dynamic co-working space
• An art gallery showcasing up-and-coming Oaxacan artists
• A holistic spa
• A 479 m² covered terrace designed for gatherings, reading, and relaxation

 

Architectural Innovation and Reciprocity

The architectural design, characterized by its elevated stilt-like construction, demonstrates remarkable innovation in tropical building practices. This approach offers multiple advantages:

• Natural temperature regulation
• Simplified maintenance
• Creation of valuable shaded community spaces perfect for sports, cultural events, and recreational activities

The terraced layout follows the natural contours of the hill, maximizing sunlight while maintaining harmony with the landscape. This thoughtful design allows the complex to serve as a respectful backdrop to the Phase 1 villas while preserving views of both the Pacific coastline and the Sierra Oaxaqueña.

 

Construction and Materials

The building’s structure employs exposed reinforced concrete with warm terracotta tones, prefabricated on-site to minimize environmental impact. Integrated grooves provide soft indirect lighting, enhancing the minimalist aesthetic while reducing energy consumption. The interior spaces feature handcrafted plaster on walls, floors, and ceilings, adding warmth and authenticity while supporting local artisanal traditions.

 

Environmental Considerations

The development incorporates several key sustainable features:

• Sliding PVC panels with double glazing for optimal cooling and insulation
• Integrated mosquito screens for natural ventilation
• Living green walls with lightweight concrete planters that adapt to sunlight patterns
• Strategic design that maximizes natural airflow and minimizes energy requirements

 

The Minds Behind the Vision

La Flia’s remarkable design is the work of Rojkind + Luce, a collaboration between Rojkind Arquitectos and Chris Luce. Michel Rojkind, known for his innovative approach to architecture, brings his signature style of blending bold contemporary forms with sustainable practices to the project. Since founding Rojkind Arquitectos in Mexico City in 2002, Rojkind has consistently pushed the boundaries of architectural design, creating structures that prioritize human experience while incorporating green technologies.

 

Puerto Escondido Architecture: A Sustainable Future

As Puerto Escondido architecture continues to gain international recognition, La Flia Phase 2 represents more than just a development project; it’s a visionary model of how thoughtful architecture can revive communities, respect tradition, and embrace modernity. By seamlessly integrating Oaxacan craftsmanship with modern building technologies, it creates a space where community, sustainability, and sophisticated design converge. As Puerto Escondido continues to evolve as a destination for architectural innovation, La Flia Phase 2 stands as a shining example of how thoughtful design can create spaces that honor tradition, embrace modernity, and protect the natural environment for future generations.