Description

CASA BANANTO

Historic Designer Residence | La Ermita de Santa Isabel | Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico

EXCLUSIVE LISTING – A HISTORIC RESIDENCE

A livable work of art. An architectural legacy in the heart of Mérida’s Historic Center.

Located in the emblematic Barrio Mágico of La Ermita, along a traditional cobblestone street and just steps from the historic Parque e Iglesia de Santa Isabel, Casa Bananto is one of the most distinctive and extraordinary residences in Mérida’s Historic Center.

More than a property, Casa Bananto is a remarkable expression of architecture, art, and design. This exceptional historic residence was restored and reimagined by acclaimed architect, interior designer, and artist Bruce Thomas Bananto, whose distinguished professional career began in New York before he relocated to Mexico.

His multidisciplinary practice encompassed architecture, interior design, furniture, lighting, landscape design, and decorative arts. In 2002, his firm was recognized by New York Magazine among its Top 100 Architects & Decorators. His work was also featured in prestigious international publications including Architectural Digest, ELLE DECOR, House & Garden, and Metropolitan Home.

At La Ermita de Santa Isabel, Bananto undertook an extensive restoration of a historic property, carefully preserving its original architectural character while introducing his distinctive artistic vision. The result is a residence where history, architecture, nature, and design come together in extraordinary harmony.

Original architectural elements, richly textured surfaces, antique furnishings, decorative details, and hand-painted murals give the property its unmistakable identity. Every space reflects Bananto’s sophisticated approach to color, history, and craftsmanship.

ARCHITECTURE AND ARTISTIC VISION

The principal living room is one of the residence’s most impressive spaces. Conceived as a monumental gallery, it features an extraordinary tribute to the sacred Mayan ceiba tree, depicted directly on the walls through hand-painted murals inspired by Renaissance art.

The architecture makes thoughtful use of natural light, carefully framed views toward the gardens, and the preservation of original elements, creating interiors that feel fresh, elegant, and deeply connected to their surroundings.

The combination of historic architectural features, antiques, original artwork, and traditional materials gives Casa Bananto a character that is truly unique and impossible to replicate.

INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED

Bruce Bananto’s work and the distinctive character of this residence have reached far beyond Mérida.

Casa Bananto has been featured internationally, including in Attitude Interior Design Magazine and the books Inside Yucatán and Mérida: A Puertas Abiertas, where the property received special distinction by also appearing on a book cover.

More than a beautifully restored historic home, Casa Bananto represents a significant expression of its creator’s artistic legacy and an exceptional opportunity to become the next steward of a truly distinctive architectural property.

OUTDOOR LIVING: A PRIVATE TROPICAL OASIS

The residence opens onto a lush tropical garden, creating a genuine oasis of privacy and tranquility.

An elegant loggia connects the interior living spaces with a spacious outdoor terrace, providing an ideal setting for entertaining, relaxation, and enjoying Mérida’s tropical lifestyle.

Surrounded by mature vegetation and majestic royal palms, the garden creates a natural microclimate that provides shade, freshness, and serenity throughout the year.

The swimming pool blends harmoniously into the landscape, complemented by the shade of the trees and the soothing sound of water.

BEDROOMS AND VERSATILE LIVING SPACES

Principal Bedroom

Located near the main entrance, the principal bedroom enjoys pleasant views of an interior courtyard framed by a pergola covered in bougainvillea. Natural light and surrounding greenery create an intimate, peaceful atmosphere.

Second Bedroom | Flexible Living Space

Situated next to the kitchen, this versatile room can serve as an additional bedroom, private study, library, reading room, or home office, adapting easily to the needs of its future owner.

Third Bedroom | Independent Mayan-Inspired Guest Villa

At the rear of the property, a separate structure inspired by traditional Mayan architecture offers a distinctive and private retreat. Featuring an authentic palapa-style roof, a full private bathroom, and direct views of the swimming pool, this independent space is ideal as a guest suite, private studio, personal retreat, or accommodation for extended stays.

A RARE ARCHITECTURAL AND CULTURAL LEGACY

Casa Bananto represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire a historic designer residence, restored and conceived with extraordinary artistic sensitivity.

Its value extends beyond the real estate market, bringing together architecture, design, art, history, and cultural heritage in a single property.

An ideal residence for those seeking a private home with character, a second home in one of Mexico’s most culturally vibrant cities, or a distinctive property worthy of an architectural and artistic collection.

POTENTIAL USES

• Private luxury residence.
• Second home or vacation residence.
• Long-term heritage and architectural investment.
• Private residence with creative studio or professional office.
• Private art gallery or showroom for art, design, and collectible furniture.
• Boutique hospitality or luxury extended-stay accommodation, subject to applicable permits and regulations.

PROPERTY DETAILS

• Location: La Ermita, Historic Center of Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico.
• Land: 560.78 m².
• Construction: 284.68 m².
• Bedrooms: 3.
• Bathrooms: 2 (according to the current property specifications).
• Swimming pool.
• Tropical garden.
• Outdoor terrace and loggia.
• Independent Mayan-inspired guest villa.
• Traditional pasta tile flooring.
• Furnished.
• Air conditioning.
• City water, electricity, and internet.

ASKING PRICE: MXN $19,000,000

Indoor amenities

•   Electricity  
•   City Water  
•   Internet  
•   Air conditioning  
•   Water Filter  
•   Cable TV  
•   Ceiling Fans  
•   Furniture  
•   Pasta Floors  

Outdoor amenities

•   Pool  
•   Garden  
•   Terrace  
•   Fenced Yard  

Property location

Health Park ATM/Bank Petrol pump Restourant Store

Multimedia

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