In 2011, Scott and Angela Damman made a bold move that would change the course of their lives. They bought a crumbling hacienda on the outskirts of Mérida, Mexico, a property that had been left to the jungle for decades. Rather than tearing it down and starting from scratch, the couple chose to honor the building’s history by reusing what they could and tapping into local craftsmanship. The result was not only a stunning home but also the foundation of a thriving design business that celebrates Yucatán’s rich material heritage.
Finding a Forgotten Gem
The Damman’s search led them to a sprawling estate hidden behind overgrown vines and weathered stone walls. Though the roof had caved in in places and the once‑vibrant courtyards were choked with weeds, the bones of the hacienda were still solid. Original timber beams, hand‑carved stone columns, and traditional piso de cemento floors whispered stories of a bygone era. Seeing potential where others saw ruin, the couple signed the papers and began a meticulous restoration process.
Why the Yucatán?
Beyond the romantic allure of colonial architecture, the Yucatán offers a wealth of sustainable building materials. Limestone quarried nearby, locally sourced timber, and traditional lime‑based plasters are not only eco‑friendly but also perfectly suited to the region’s humid climate. By leaning on these resources, Scott and Angela could reduce transportation costs, support nearby artisans, and ensure the home would age gracefully.
Rehabbing with Respect
The couple approached the project as a conversation between past and present. Rather than stripping away every trace of the hacienda’s history, they preserved original features where possible and integrated new elements that complemented the old.
Materials and Methods
- Reclaimed wood: Beams and doors salvaged from the property were cleaned, reinforced, and reused in interior ceilings and custom furniture.
- Local stone: Damaged walls were repaired using limestone cut from a nearby quarry, matching the original texture and color.
- Traditional plaster: A lime‑based finish was applied to interior surfaces, allowing the walls to breathe and resist mold in the tropical humidity.
- Salvaged tiles: Broken azulejos were pieced together to create vibrant mosaic accents in bathrooms and patio areas.
“We didn’t want to build a new house on an old foundation; we wanted to let the old house tell its story while we added our own chapters.” – Angela Damman
From Ruins to Business
As the hacienda transformed, so did the Damman’s vision. Friends and visitors began asking where they could find the same handcrafted details, and the couple realized there was a market for authentic, locally made design pieces. What started as a personal restoration project evolved into a full‑service design studio that sources materials directly from Yucatán artisans and creates custom furnishings for clients across North America.
The Design Studio Takes Shape
Today, the studio operates out of a renovated wing of the hacienda, showcasing the very techniques that saved the property. Projects range from boutique hotel interiors to private residences, each piece reflecting a blend of modern functionality and traditional craftsmanship. By staying true to their roots—reuse, local sourcing, and respect for the land—Scott and Angela have turned a forgotten jungle estate into a living example of sustainable, beautiful design.
