2024 - TIZAL

Tizal: A Fusion of Nature and Luxury in the Gypsum Desert

In the midst of the vast and undulating white expanse of the gypsum desert, a meticulously designed sanctuary emerges: the Resort Tizal. This hotel is the result of our effort to blend the majestic nature of the desert environment with luxury and sustainability. The genesis of this oasis begins with a deep immersion into the culture, climate, and ecology of the desert. We delved into the history of the place, honoring the local aesthetics and traditions in every corner of the hotel. Inspired by the harmony between the natural and built environments, the structures rise in unison with the dunes, using earthy materials that integrate perfectly with the landscape. The architectural design of smooth, sinuous lines invites the natural movement of the wind, providing shade in open spaces and cross-ventilation in the rooms. The common areas are interwoven with gardens of cacti and native plants, inviting guests to explore and connect with the desert flora and fauna.

The “Sutul,” which means tornado or hurricane in Mayan, majestically rises above the lobby, becoming the most prominent element of the entire project with its impressive height of 30 meters. This unique six-story structure defines the conceptual heart of the boutique hotel. Inspired by the shape of desert mounds and gypsum dunes, the circular structure, with a diameter of 35 meters on each floor, leans northward, subtly guiding visitors’ gaze towards the gypsum dunes on the horizon.

The residences, known as “Las Dunas,” are designed to emulate the shape of the gypsum dunes. Viewed from the front, they adopt the form of paraboloids, giving them a smooth and elegant appearance. This form is not only aesthetically pleasing but also harmoniously integrates with the desert environment. The residences are strategically located to offer panoramic views of the surrounding dunes. Each has a private English patio, connected by underground corridors, and its entrance reflects the softness of the dunes. Additionally, the design sustainably integrates with the environment, using large windows approximately 3.5 meters high and materials that blend with the desert landscape.

In the most secluded area of the hotel, we find the heart of Tizal: the lobby. Submerged 5 meters underground, this central space is accessed through two broad ramps, each over 40 meters long, converging in a majestic rotunda in front of the main entrance. Just above the lobby, at ground level, is the “Sutul,” an impressive museum and observatory. Its descending columns, strategically inclined, not only distribute the weight towards the lobby but also provide a unique visual element. The lobby’s rotunda, adorned with a reflective pond, mirrors the rings of the tornado and its columns, creating an impressive visual display at the entrance.

The main facade of the lobby, entirely made of glass with glass doors, bathes the space in natural light. Upon entering, the columns and parametric wooden ceilings envelop the entire lobby, surrounding an interior garden illuminated by a skylight connected to the tornado’s light wells. Design elements evoking the rings of a tornado add a unique touch to the atmosphere. Additionally, the lobby houses the reception, a cozy lounge/bar, and a circular restaurant to the left, equipped to serve 40 guests. The latter features a central column with illuminated arches and skylights between each arch.

The first floor of the “Sutul,” unpaved and covered with desert sand, offers panoramic views thanks to its glass facade. The “Sutul” features a facade of stainless steel rings representing the lines of the mounds in the gypsum dunes.

Moreover, the Resort Tizal boasts a spacious spa with distinctive architecture inspired by the dunes. Buried 2.2 meters underground, it features emerging forms that reach up to 3.5 meters in height. There are also parking structures with solar panels: three metal structures providing shade with arches that support solar panels, combining energy functionality with sustainable aesthetics.

The Resort Tizal is not just a hotel; it is an experience that invites its visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the desert while enjoying responsible and environmentally conscious luxury.