December 8, 2025 | VOL 15
HUMANO TOUCH
words Laura Cottrell
photos Edward Sumner
As a pioneer of lifestyle hospitality in Mexico, Grupo Habita quickly captured the attention of design hotel enthusiasts with its first openings in the late '90s—starting with HABITA Hotel. The group’s architecture-enthusiast founders, Carlos Couturier and Moisés Micha, infused Mexico City’s vibrant chaos with a bold design vision. Through their boutique hotels—our favorite being Condesa DF—they played a key role in transforming the city into a must-visit destination for design lovers.
Lately, their focus has shifted to Oaxaca, where they’ve unveiled a series of breathtaking hotels, including Escondido, Otro Oaxaca, and Hotel Terrestre. Now, they’re making waves once again with a brand-new addition to the region: Hotel Humano, set in the world-renowned surf destination of La Punta Zicatela.
Located on a pedestrian-friendly street just steps from the beach, Humano—like all Grupo Habita properties—is deeply inspired by and created in collaboration with its surrounding community.
A COLOR PALETTE TO FALL IN LOVE WITH
Designed by Jorge Hernandez de la Garza, the hotel’s architecture stays true to Grupo Habita’s signature aesthetic: raw concrete, clay tiles, exposed brick, and tropical wood. The interiors by Plantea Estudio are equally striking, with a captivating palette of deep wine reds, burnt oranges, and soft whites that radiate warmth and character.
The common areas and rooms strike a seamless balance between simplicity and comfort, blending elements of mid-century modernism with Scandinavian interiors. At the same time, the region’s surf culture is deeply embedded in the hotel’s aesthetic and overall atmosphere.
Adding to its authenticity, Javier Gómez’s handcrafted wooden partitions, doors, and furniture reflect the essence of Oaxaca, effortlessly blending local craftsmanship with contemporary design. Meanwhile, the hotel’s 39 rooms are transformed into unique, art-filled sanctuaries with one-of-a-kind drawings by Mexico City-based architect and artist Lucio Muniain.
For breathtaking ocean sunsets, the rooftop terrace is the place to be. Another highlight? Dinners curated by chef Marion Chateau of Marseille’s famed La Relève, turning every evening into a gastronomic delight.
The nearest airport, Puerto Escondido International Airport, is just a 20-minute drive from Hotel Humano—making this design-forward surf retreat as accessible as it is stunning.
- The full story is featured in Vol.15 -
