The DNA: Mexican studios Taller Lu’um and At-te designed this boutique hotel in Oaxaca to showcase local craft with earthen walls, doors made from local wood and a thatched roof. Called Monte Uzulu, the hotel is located in San Agustinillo, a small fishing village and beach in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico. Its name comes from the word gusulú, which means the start or beginning in the language of the Zapotec people indigenous to the region. Located on a sandy, hillside with the Pacific Ocean a short walk away, it is surrounded by trees that were kept in order to make the least environmental impact as possible.

Seen: archdaily, dezeen, The Spaces

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 12 rooms & suites (35-57m2) (377-614 sq ft) • hotel opened: 2019 • architecture & interior design: taller LU’UM • street parking • pets allowed on request