
A landscape view of a coastal area with a small, dome-shaped structure partially visible among dense greenery. The scene includes a sandy beach in the foreground and a backdrop of rolling hills under a clear sky.
Story
An Elliptical Ode to Fungi and Community The Casa Wabi Mushroom Pavilion, designed by OMA, is a striking architectural intervention nestled in the natural landscape of Puerto Escondido. Its primary function is to cultivate fungi while fostering an exchange of knowledge between the local community and the foundation. The pavilion's design is a simple yet profound ellipsoid form, reminiscent of an incubating egg, optimized for the interior organization necessary for mushroom growth. Inside, the pavilion is divided into three distinct chambers: the fruiting room, incubation room, and storage, all of which encircle a central gathering space. This arrangement creates an amphitheater-like setting with stepped shelves for terra cotta pots crafted by local artisans. The design's panopticon quality allows visitors to observe the entire mushroom growing process. The pavilion's concrete shell, stamped with burlap, interacts with the site's high iron content water, allowing it to rust and evolve over time. An oculus at the top and additional openings around the base ensure natural light and ventilation, while the structure's minimal ground contact preserves the surrounding guayacan vegetation.
## Design Highlights
Ellipsoid form optimized for mushroom cultivation Interior divided into fruiting, incubation, and storage chambers Amphitheater-like stepped shelves for terra cotta pots Oculus and perimeter openings for natural light and ventilation Burlap-stamped concrete shell designed to rust over time
## Key Facts
| Key Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Architect | OMA |
| Location | Puerto Escondido, Mexico |
| Year | 2025 |
| Status | Built |
| Primary Function | Mushroom cultivation pavilion |
Technical Summary
Finishes
- Exterior Finish: Burlap stamped concrete with high iron content water, designed to rust and change appearance over time.
Materials
- Concrete — Used for the structure's shell and interior surfaces.
- Terracotta — Used for handmade mushroom pots placed on tiered seating.
Construction / Systems
- Structural System: Self-supporting ellipsoid structure with a concrete shell.
Products
- Not specified
Palette / Lighting
- Colors: Not specified
- Lighting: Natural lighting through an oculus and additional openings for ventilation.
Similar projects
More agricultural buildingsVertical Oasis: A New Urban Paradigm
H&P Architects
A Vietnamese home integrates agriculture into urban living with a dynamic facade of ceramic pots, creating a living screen that evolves over time.
From Sky to Table . Lisbon
Atelier Parto
A transformative project in Lisbon, blending permaculture with urban community engagement.
Grain Store at the Marbach State Stud
a + r Architekten
The Grain Store at Marbach State Stud by a + r Architekten embodies contemporary agricultural architecture with its precise and calm design, integrating seamles…
Casa Eva
S-AR
Casa Eva in Puerto Escondido is a sanctuary that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, featuring open spaces and sustainable materials.
Hospitalfield Arts Studios
Caruso St John
A thoughtful integration of contemporary studios within a historic arts estate in Arbroath.
Projects by the architect
View OMAPrismatic Urban Oasis
OMA
A striking urban landmark in Hangzhou, the Xinhu Prism by OMA integrates a dynamic mix of residential, hotel, and retail spaces within a bold geometric form.
DCC | Cultural Centre
OMA
The Dalby Cultural Centre by OMA Australia redefines the cultural landscape of Queensland’s Western Downs, integrating a library, gallery, cinema, and visitor i…
The Metropolitan Village
OMA
A vertical village in Taipei's Xinyi district, blending living and working spaces.
New Museum Extension
OMA
OMA's New Museum extension in New York doubles gallery space and integrates seamlessly with the existing SANAA building, enhancing visitor experience and cultur…








