HACIENDA EL AGUACATE

A project by Architecture Studio GOMA Taller, Queretaro, Mexico

In the semi-desert landscape, nestled in a ravine that carries rainfall from the Bajío to the Gulf of Mexico, turning the site into an oasis, stands the original hacienda structure: a 19th-century mill.

GOMA Taller found a ruined construction, severely eroded land, and overgrown vegetation. Goma’s mission was to leave the place better than it was found in every aspect. A permaculture project was established on the expansive land, defining the site’s purpose: a sanctuary for flora and fauna and a place for people to enjoy.

With a limited budget, the hacienda was restored to include six bedrooms with bathrooms, a kitchen, and a living area. Part of the ruins was left untouched, integrating a swimming pool and jacuzzi within a courtyard, ensuring that modern elements did not overshadow the historical essence.

Elsewhere in the landscape, a second 25-meter pool was built at the top of a ravine, offering a 360-degree view. This pool connects to the agricultural area through a tunnel constructed using recycled formwork from Casa Tejocote. In this way, the abandoned and eroded regions were reconnected, transforming them into productive and accessible spaces.

GOMA Taller is restoring the riparian system (the river and its banks) through reforesting with new generations of ash and willow trees, restricting livestock access to specific areas, and creating waterfalls with small dams.

El Aguacate is a lifelong project, and GOMA is just getting started. Goma’s vision aims to be the catalyst for something even more ambitious—both ecologically and experientially.