Introducing Nicolas Kendall, the visionary co-founder of Mira Earth Studios. Nestled in the scenic Valle de Guadalupe, these studios exemplify the harmonious blend of innovation and sustainability. Discover the details behind this groundbreaking project and get to know the daily life of one of its founders by exploring his inspirations, routines, and the unique elements that make Mira Earth Studios stand out. Learn how Nicolas and his team have crafted a space that not only offers luxury and comfort but also respects and integrates with its natural surroundings.
Name: Nicolas Kendall
Instagram: @nicolaskendall
Website: www.miraearthstudios.com
Title: Co-founder
City you live in: Ensenada, BC
Most recent city visited… Guadalajara
A typical day in my life includes… making a pour-over coffee first thing in the morning and enjoying it before starting work. I generally open my laptop and work from home for a while. I do a lot of hosting, so my days often involve showing people around the region, taking them to restaurants and wineries. Many of my friends are in the industry, so hosting usually turns into a fun and enjoyable experience with them.
I was born… November 13th, 1990
When I was younger, I wanted to be… a professional musician or chef
My first job was… bartender
My favorite thing about traveling is… learning about different culture, history and cuisine. I generally love getting out and exploring, rather than lounging around or relaxing.
I’m currently listening to… my tastes vary greatly and change frequently; however, I do enjoy Midnight Generation, L’Impératrice and Franc Moody
If I could have dinner with anyone, it would be… with close friends and family. While I meet many new people, what I enjoy most is dining with those I love and cooking together.
One thing I cannot travel without… is my phone. I rely on Google Maps constantly to navigate, save, and star hundreds of places, using it as a reference to plan my days.
I’m inspired by… creativity and quality
If I could change anything in the world, it would be: uninspiring food and poor design. There’s no reason today for food, whether street food or fine dining, to lack flavor and execution. Quality doesn’t need to be expensive. Additionally, many unattractive aspects of our environment are man-made. Focusing more on detail and thoughtful design could greatly enhance our surroundings.
The perfect day would be… waking up in a beautiful location, making coffee, and relaxing for a while before opening amazing wines. I would spend the afternoon cooking with close friends, discussing interesting ideas.
My favorite place I’ve visited is: Australia. Although I was born there, I feel it’s often an underrated destination. The quality of life is incredible—everything is clean, systems work efficiently, and the design is excellent. Australia has an amazing wine, restaurant, and coffee scene. Nature is perfectly integrated into the cities, providing easy access to trails and parks.
My top 3 bucket list destinations: Have not been: Korea, Morocco and Iceland. Have been: Japan, Australia, Denmark.
My life… is pretty awesome, and I can’t complain. I’ve been fortunate to travel extensively and pursue what I love. I’m constantly surrounded by amazing and talented people.
I’m currently working on… I’m currently working on the next phases of Mira Earth Studios and growing my spirit brand, Atávica. Additionally, I’m opening a cocktail bar called Mecenas in Guadalajara with some friends.
What was the main purpose of creating Mira Earth Studios?
The main purpose of creating Mira Earth Studios was to develop a family project with my sister, Hannah Kendall. Initially, we began designing a project in Nicaragua, but due to a political situation, we decided to return to Mexico and ended up in Valle de Guadalupe. We continued to work with our Nicaraguan architect, Juniette Bermudez, and together, the three of us collaborated on all aspects of the project.
What makes the 10 luxurious Mira Earth Studios stand out from other accommodations in Valle de Guadalupe?
The 10 luxurious Mira Earth Studios stand out in Valle de Guadalupe due to their thoughtful design, seamlessly blending into the rocky landscape of Rancho Sordo Mudo with rammed earth and native plant green roofs. The incredible views of the vineyards below are beautifully framed, and every room is designed with acute attention to detail to ensure all comforts and needs are met, even in this remote location. Additionally, each room offers exceptional amenities that enhance the overall experience.
What is your favorite part of the studios?
My favorite part of the studios is the feeling of being inside the rooms, surrounded by the rammed earth walls. There’s a special energy to these spaces, and nothing beats waking up within those walls, opening the curtains, and enjoying the incredible view with a perfectly brewed cup of coffee. It feels as though time slows down, with no rush or need to go anywhere—just to be, contemplate, and enjoy.
What design features and amenities do the luxury studios at MIRA Earth Studios in Valle de Guadalupe offer?
Nestled in a natural landscape, the studios are built with native plant green roofs and rammed earth walls. Each studio includes a private jacuzzi, infrared sauna, fire pit with a s’mores kit, and a modern kitchenette. Guests can enjoy additional amenities such as a projector for movie nights, breakfast baskets, Baja-politan pizzas from Tanto Santo, a pour-over coffee and tea ceremony, and a well-stocked mini bar with snacks, pre-bottled cocktails, and local wines.
What sustainability initiatives are implemented at MIRA Earth Studios
GREEN ROOFS
We collaborated with specialists to install green roofs and landscapes with native plants. We collected and propagated seeds on the ranch to blend the rooms with the surrounding environment.
RAMMED EARTH WALLS
The room walls are constructed using an ancient technique called rammed earth. Soil collected from the site is compacted in a formwork. The result is a thick wall with thermal and fire-resistant properties.
WATER TREATMENT
We’ve implemented an aerobic system that injects oxygen into blackwater tanks, where it mixes with natural bacteria to obtain clean water. We then treat this water with UV light and ozone for use in toilets, green roofs, and landscaping.
Pictures by John Lok @johnlokphoto