Trends in landscaping and interior design in heritage Interventions

Discover, through an inspiring interview with the Trasmuro team, the latest Trends in landscaping and interior design for heritage interventions. These remarkable projects, located in the heart of Mérida’s historic center, have become benchmarks for their impressive aesthetic value and commitment to ecological sustainability.

What materials are dominating the houses you have recently visited? Is there any texture, finish, or artisanal technique gaining prominence?

From the more than 80 homes we’ve been able to document, with the eye of architecture and interior design enthusiasts, most of them are remodels in the center of Mérida. These are characterized by the use of regional materials and finishes, such as piedra laja (in its different variations), pasta tiles, hardwoods that can withstand humidity and termites, as well as finishes like chukum and its derivatives.
We’ve noticed that the choice of materials is directly linked to the extreme climatic conditions of the region and the easy access to them. For example, with laja (which is an excellent thermal insulator), you only need to dig about a meter, and you’ll find large stone slabs that, once transformed, become walls and cover facades.

Interior usando pisos de pasta y paredes con acabado tipo chukum / Interior with pasta tiles and chukum-finished walls
Fotografía / Photography: Fernando Morandi de Trasmuro

Detalles de baño / Bathroom details
Fotografía / Photography: Fernando Morandi de Trasmuro

What ecological options have you observed in terms of finishes and textures?

For chukum, there are now industrialized pastes that achieve the same finish in a more sustainable way, without relying on the tree. This industrial process also ensures a more consistent finish and makes it easier to access and apply. Similarly, just like with materials, a well-planned space layout helps create cooler interiors, reducing the need for air conditioning by taking advantage of natural orientation and airflow. Among the materials that serve as thermal insulators, we’ve noticed pasta tiles, stone coverings, and walls finished with pasta, among others.

Diseño de exteriores y paisajismo / Exterior and landscape design
Fotografía / Photography: Fernando Morandi de Trasmuro

In terms of landscaping, what natural elements or features are most in demand by homeowners in today’s gardens?

The outdoor spaces in Mérida are wonderful but can be a bit challenging to maintain due to the humid and hot climate. Without a doubt, one trend we’ve seen quite a lot is the use of gravel as a “substitute” for grass. In areas where grass would have been the only consideration just a few years ago, the demanding maintenance and low ecological benefit of grass have led to its replacement with gravel. Not only does gravel require less upkeep, but it also allows water to permeate the ground more effectively.
Similarly, in properties that operate as Airbnb, we have found low-maintenance plants such as cow’s tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata), bougainvillea (Bougainvillea), various types of cacti, and green acorus (Acorus calamus).

Espacio exterior con suelo de gravilla y escalera de piedra de la región / Exterior space with gravel flooring and a regional stone staircase
Fotografía / Photography: Fernando Morandi de Trasmuro

What kind of integration do you see between interior and exterior spaces in the current design of homes?

The integration between interior and exterior spaces is becoming increasingly noticeable, with barriers between them being eliminated through the use of sliding doors and, in some cases, removing sills and enclosures to avoid blocking views.
Due to Mérida’s climate, we’ve found that covered terraces are often included as intermediate and transitional spaces between the interior and exterior. These terraces help buffer and protect from the region’s extreme heat, providing a comfortable and functional space that connects the indoors with the outdoors.