chain + siman and modomanera revive modernist landmark hotel avándaro in mexico’s forest

chain + siman and modomanera utilize timber, stone, and clay bricks to form a cohesive material language across the site.

Chain + Siman edited by christina vergopoulou April 19, 2025 4 min

Hotel Avándaro sits within forested landscape in Valle de Bravo

Hotel Avándaro, located in Valle de Bravo, Mexico, is the result of a comprehensive renovation and masterplan by architecture studios Chain + Siman and modomanera. Originally built in 1958 by Mexican modernist Francisco Artigas and later modified in the 1990s by architect Noldi Schreck, the property has undergone a redesign that maintains key architectural features while introducing updated spatial and material strategies. The 3,000 sqm hotel complex includes 81 guest suites, a convention center, two restaurants, a boutique, deli, golf course, clubhouse, and multiple communal areas. The site, situated within a forested area approximately 90 minutes from Mexico City, remains a venue for corporate gatherings and recreational stays.

The design reorganized circulation to separate and clarify pathways for hotel guests, club members, and event participants, improving spatial flow throughout the complex. While contemporary interventions were added, original architectural elements, such as sloped roofs and timber structures, were retained and adapted through new geometries and detailing. Materials including wood, stone, brick, and neutral-toned finishes were selected in response to the natural surroundings.

chain + siman and modomanera revive modernist landmark hotel avándaro in mexico's forest - 1 — all images by Rafael Gamo and Celia Rojo

Chain + Siman and modomanera update hotel’s interior layouts

The collaborative design teams by Chain + Siman and modomanera studio renovated the guest suites with a focus on updated interior layouts. Original wooden ceiling beams were preserved, and new features, such as suspended fireplaces and outdoor balconies, were introduced to extend interior space toward the surrounding landscape. Sustainability was a central component of the project. Emphasis was placed on restoration over demolition to reduce waste and preserve embodied energy. A former dividing wall facade was adapted as a load-bearing element within a newly developed sequence of shared spaces. Additional environmental strategies included the installation of solar panels, a rainwater harvesting system, passive climate controls, and adaptive lighting.

Material sourcing and construction labor were largely local. The use of regional materials minimized transportation impact and supported local production. Employment generated through construction and operations was prioritized for members of the local community. The renovated complex includes new features such as JOSĒ Restaurant and La Acuarima, a circular pavilion adjacent to a natural canal, as well as a deli, café, and gym facilities. The project integrates architectural conservation with contemporary spatial needs, establishing a balance between heritage, environmental considerations, and operational functionality.

chain + siman and modomanera revive modernist landmark hotel avándaro in mexico's forest - 2 — Hotel Avándaro sits within a forested landscape near Valle de Bravo, Mexico

chain + siman and modomanera revive modernist landmark hotel avándaro in mexico's forest - 3 — neutral-toned materials complement the surrounding forest environment

chain + siman and modomanera revive modernist landmark hotel avándaro in mexico's forest - 4 — JOSĒ Restaurant adds new culinary programming to the complex

hotel-avandaro-valle-de-bravo-mexico-renovation-masterplan-chain-siman-modomanera-designboom-1800-2 — timber, stone, and clay bricks form a cohesive material language across the site

chain + siman and modomanera revive modernist landmark hotel avándaro in mexico's forest - 5 — the project features artwork by Mexican sculptress Charlotte Yazbek

chain + siman and modomanera revive modernist landmark hotel avándaro in mexico's forest - 6 — a combination of vegetation and artisanal clay plates decorate the restaurant’s walls

chain + siman and modomanera revive modernist landmark hotel avándaro in mexico's forest - 7 — the wooden beams are left uncovered to filter natural light, creating an interplay of light and shadow

chain + siman and modomanera revive modernist landmark hotel avándaro in mexico's forest - 8 — Hotel Avándaro’s common areas integrate responsive lighting that illuminates beams and sloped roofs

chain + siman and modomanera revive modernist landmark hotel avándaro in mexico's forest - 9 — the renovation includes two restaurants, a boutique, deli, golf course, clubhouse, and multiple communal areas

chain + siman and modomanera revive modernist landmark hotel avándaro in mexico's forest - 10 — extensive views of the forested landscape turn the deli into an iconic viewpoint

chain + siman and modomanera revive modernist landmark hotel avándaro in mexico's forest - 11 — a new spatial layout improves circulation between guests, members, and event attendees

chain + siman and modomanera revive modernist landmark hotel avándaro in mexico's forest - 12 — Chain + Siman and modomanera led the comprehensive design overhaul

hotel-avandaro-valle-de-bravo-mexico-renovation-masterplan-chain-siman-modomanera-designboom-1800-3 — the project merges architectural continuity with updated hospitality design

suspended fireplaces introduce contemporary comfort into private lounges the clubhouse features bathing spaces fully covered in marble stone masterplan elevation elevation elevation elevation elevation elevation

project info:

name: Hotel Avándaro
architects: Chain + Siman | @chainsiman, modomanera | @modomanera
location: Valle de Bravo, Mexico

photographer: Rafael Gamo | @rafael_gamo, Celia Rojo | @celiarojo.fotografia

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