Hidden in the hills of the Yucatán landscape is Hacienda Subín, a restored 17th-century hacienda that carries the weight of five centuries of history.
Purchased in 2008 by designer Laura Kirar and Richard Frazier, the duo began restoration works on this property in a way that has not removed the history of the ruins, but instead polished the marks of time that give this home an undeniably unique charm.
Haciendas were large estates developed during the 16th-18th centuries, and serve as a reminder of the Spanish colonisation of Mexico. They are characterised by their whitewashed stucco walls, heavy wooden beams and clay-tiled roofs. Whereas many of these haciendas have surrendered to the jungle after centuries of decay, the historic soul of Hacienda Subín has been preserved within its restoration, honouring Merida’s historic architecture whilst becoming a family home and community space.
"Restoring is an art of listening. At Subín, we didn't want to erase the 300 years of history; we wanted to weave them together. It’s a fusion of Morocco, India, and the Yucatán, filtered through a modern Mexican lens." - Laura Kirar (Yucatán Magazine)
The materials chosen by Kirar and Frazier, allowed them to reflect both the original construction of the building and their personal approach to modern, minimalist design. The reconstruction honours original elements of the hacienda, such as the vaulted ceilings, archways and the open courtyards which mirror the traditional layout of Yucatán haciendas.
This design approach clearly influenced the new additions to the property, with the coral pink pool house matching the shades of colour found on the walls of the ruin, weathered over time.
Many of the pieces found in the property are from local artisans or Kirar’s own brand partnerships. The cohesive use of mid-century modern furniture, combined with organic, textured details reveals the intentional design of each room, creating a dialogue between eras.
There is a clear international influence throughout the property, with one room dedicated to Morocco, including a floor design inspired by the mosaic flooring often found in riads.
The specific choice in decoration enhances the original features. For example, the intentional choice of low-profile furniture creates the illusion that the tall walls could stretch into eternity. Most of the walls are left empty - allowing the stucco walls to remain a key feature of the space. There is clear and deliberate intention in how Kirar and Frazier have decorated the space.
The restoration of Hacienda Subín is a reminder of how we can enjoy the comforts of the present without disregarding the heritage of the spaces we inherit.
Images: Hacienda Subin
