Oaxaca's Mezcal Cultural Center Wins 2025 DNA Paris Design Award
The Mezcal Cultural Center (CCM) in Oaxaca has been recognised for its exceptional design, winning the 2025 DNA Paris Design Awards in the Interior Design/Renovation category. Opened in October 2023, this unique space celebrates Oaxaca's mezcal culture and history, combining traditional and modern elements inspired by the maguey plant.
The CCM's design team, led by Alonso de la Fuente Obregón, restored a 17th-century building in Oaxaca city, incorporating traditional materials such as black clay, artisanal textiles, and locally treated tropical woods. The venue is not just a museum; it also houses a bar, a restaurant, and a mezcal shop stocking over 320 Oaxacan mezcal labels. Visitors can explore an interactive museum, learn about the 95 endemic plant species from Oaxaca, and even purchase mezcal directly from producers.
The CCM's mission goes beyond showcasing Oaxaca's rich culture. It aims to promote and preserve mezcal production and its cultural significance. The centre purchases mezcal directly from producers, who in turn commit to planting an agave for every mezcal sold. This initiative not only supports local communities but also celebrates mezcal's community roots and raises awareness about its cultural importance.
The CCM's innovative design, which blends traditional and modern elements, has earned it a prestigious international award. By preserving Oaxaca's mezcal culture and supporting local producers, the centre stands as a testament to the power of cultural preservation and community engagement.
