Mas Maya, a company based in the Cadiz province, is drawing the attention of architects, designers, and creatives worldwide with a unique material developed and produced in the region. This venture, born from the founders' personal journey from the UK to southern Spain, has evolved into a sector benchmark.
The inspiration for Mas Maya stemmed from renovating a property and subsequently creating the Mas Maya House in Conil. The goal was to merge local architectural heritage with contemporary design, emphasizing simplicity, texture, and natural flow, using a durable material suited to the Andalusian climate. Discovering traditional Mayan plaster in Mexico proved pivotal, especially due to the positive response from their daughter Alma, who found calm in its soft, seamless finish.
Adapting this ancient technique for a European context, and unable to source the chukum tree extract sustainably at scale, the company developed an improved formulation in Andalusia. Collaborating with a specialist Mexican chemist, they combined a limestone base with natural plant extracts, drawing on biomimicry principles to create a breathable coating that responds to its environment.
Established less than two years ago, Mas Maya has experienced rapid growth, transforming from a local startup into a business exporting to over 30 countries. The company has expanded its team to more than 25 people, with operations firmly rooted in Andalusia. Its headquarters, production warehouse, and showroom in Conil attract professionals from across Europe and beyond, many travelling to experience the material and receive hands-on training.
This growing interest not only strengthens Mas Maya's presence in the global design landscape, with participation in fairs in cities like London, Lisbon, Amsterdam, and Marbella, but also boosts the local economy of Conil and the wider Cadiz region by attracting visitors and professionals.
“"What’s been most exciting is building something here in Andalucía from the ground up. It started as a personal project, but it’s grown into something much more, working with a mix of local people and international clients, all bringing different perspectives. There’s a real energy around it. Seeing people travel to Conil to experience the material, learn, and be part of it has been incredibly rewarding. It feels like we’re creating something that connects people as much as it creates spaces."
With a continued focus on strengthening its presence in Andalusia and attracting talent to the region, Mas Maya aligns with the increasing demand for natural materials and traditional techniques. The company represents a new generation of businesses combining craftsmanship, sustainability, and positive local economic impact, creating spaces that are calmer, more balanced, and comfortable.
