Nestled just a few minutes away from downtown Oaxaca, Moza’be Restaurant breathes new life into an old painting factory, transforming it into a culinary haven that celebrates the rich gastronomic heritage of the region. Designed by Espacio 18 Arquitectura, this architectural intervention pays homage to Oaxacan colonial architecture while creating vibrant and inviting spaces for diners.

Architectural Transformation: Preserving the Essence

The project involved the meticulous intervention of the existing structure, employing what the architects describe as “architectural acupuncture” to enhance the preexisting elements and create new spaces. The central patio, reminiscent of Oaxacan colonial architecture, serves as the heart of the project, around which routes and connections flow seamlessly, fostering a sense of fluidity and openness.

Sustainable Design: Embracing Recycled and Reinterpreted Spaces

Moza’be Restaurant embraces sustainability by repurposing and reinterpreting existing spaces, ensuring functionality while minimizing environmental impact. Recycled and reused materials are integrated throughout the design, from earth paints to polished concrete, steel structural interventions, and clay outdoors. Open spaces facilitate cross ventilation, responding to the need for air circulation in the current global climate.

Innovative Features: A Steel Roof and Indigenous Landscape

One of the most striking features of the project is the steel roof enveloping a majestic olive tree, providing protection from the elements while offering a visual focal point towards the street. The landscape design mirrors the ethos of sustainability, incorporating low-water plants like cacti and utilizing locally sourced materials such as quarries and green quarry columns repurposed as benches.

Culinary Experience: A Sensorial Journey

Moza’be Restaurant aspires to showcase the best of Oaxacan cuisine and culture through a sensorial experience that transcends trends. From its humble earthy palette to its thoughtful layout and sustainable ethos, every aspect of the restaurant is designed to immerse diners in the essence of Oaxaca. Moza’be is not just a dining destination but a cultural landmark, poised to leave a lasting legacy in the vibrant cityscape of Oaxaca.