Interview with Luis Enrique Macedo Ramirez
Luis Enrique Macedo Ramírez is an architect dedicated to designing spaces that integrate sustainability, functionality, and cultural heritage.
Designer Interview
26 May 2025
I've always been drawn to the relationship between people and space. My background began in architecture, but over time, I realized that what truly moved me was the emotional response that design can evoke. It wasn’t about building structures—it was about building experiences.
MAAR Arquitectura Humana is a studio that goes beyond architecture. We design with empathy, with nature, and with purpose. Our work focuses on creating spaces that resonate with the human spirit—spaces that heal, inspire, and connect.
Design is a bridge between intention and experience. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about meaning, context, and transformation.
I love designing spaces where people reconnect with themselves and with the natural world—hotels, retreat centers, houses and public spaces that invite introspection and joy.
One of my favorite designs is Secrets Moxché & Impression Moxché. It was a challenge to balance luxury, sustainability, and emotional impact—but we created a sanctuary that honors both place and person.
My first design was a house in Puerto Cancun at 17 years old
Natural materials—stone, wood, light, and shadow. I also value the use of silence, vegetation and space as part of the design language.
Late at nights or when I’m immersed in nature. Stillness often brings the clearest ideas.
detail. feasibility because without designing within the constraints its only dreaming
A deep sense of connection—joy, responsibility, reverence for the process, and respect for the plot.
Humility and gratitude. Seeing an idea materialize and touch lives is a powerful moment.
When it serves it purpose correctly and makes you feel something
Functionality, efficiency, experience and aesthetics in that order
We are stewards. Our work must protect, regenerate, and elevate both the environment and human experience.
Design is becoming more practical, emotional, grounded, and regenerative. The future lies in reconnection—with earth, community, and self.
It was a couple of months ago, in a congress of alumni at the Anahuac Mayab in Merida
inspiration comes from analysis, every line is a responsibility and if there's no analysis behind it, you are only making something aesthetic
Ethereal yet grounded and adaptative. We use raw textures, organic forms, and sensory design to connect people to place.
I live in Mexico. The cultural richness here deeply influences our work and that is something we try to bring to every project
Through collaboration, listening, and immersion. Our process is never transactional—it’s a shared vision.
Choose designers who listen, who ask meaningful questions, and who prioritize soul and functionality over style and trends.
It begins with deep listening. Then we explore, sketch, walk the land, research, dream, iterate, and then repeat al over again —always rooted in emotion.
A handmade clay cup (made by myself), a carved stone bench, my pentax film camera, landscape photography of iceland and a chaise lounge sofa
I start with silence and meditation, followed by design sessions, team meetings, and nature time. Balance is key.
Be patient and curious. Design is about depth, not just aesthetics. Lead with intention and listen more than you speak.
The positive: creating meaningful change. The challenge: staying true to your essence in a world driven by speed and trends. and the negative is the immense responsibility towards society
Architecture without function creates art, architecture with function creates soul
Empathy, storytelling, critical thinking, adaptability, and listening.
Sketchbook, AutoCAD, Rhino, Enscape, physical models, and inspiration from books and nature.
Architecture is a team work, it's vital to have the right people and it its important to trust the right people in order to manage time correctly.
It depends—from weeks for small elements to years for full-scale developments.
“How do you design spaces that feel so alive?” I always answer: “By listening.”
Designing Secrets & Impression Moxché. It tested every part of me as a designer and a leader.
Luxury hotel brands, eco-resorts, private developers, and communities focused on transformation and sustainability.
Spaces meant for deep connection—like spas, homes and retreats. They invite stillness and healing.
We’re expanding internationally, bringing our philosophy to new landscapes while staying true to our roots.
Always as a team. MAAR’s essence is collective—we design together.
We’re working on a jungle wellness sanctuary and a coastal residential project that reimagines modern luxury.
Through our website: maar.mx or via Instagram @maar.mx
Just one: design is a form of care. It’s how we leave something better than we found it—and that’s a legacy worth building.