A Look Under the Palapa

By Maura Taylor. Photo by Catherine Krantz

Think Palapa and suddenly visions are evoked of tropical places, white sandy beaches, cool ocean breezes and deliciously refreshing fruity alcoholic beverages. The actual word palapa has several different meanings, depending on which culture it is being used in. The Indonesians define it as fruits of labor, the Mayans use it to refer to a home, a place where daily rituals and celebrations are performed, and in general use, the word palapa refers to any of the thatched roof covered structures, we see today.

And while palapas may seem exotic to us extranjeros, they’ve actually been in Mexico for about 2,000 years now. Simple versions of the palapa can be found in coastal regions anywhere from Bali to Brazil, although the palapa rooftops that dot the scenery above La Ropa beach are a bit more refined. These palapas are typically made from a specific type of palm called the Mexican Fan, a heavily armed species of palm native to canyons and wet marshes throughout North Western Mexico. The palm frond of this species is sought because of it’s durability against the natural elements.

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Palapas are fairly easily constructed; the fronds are cut from the palm trees and are either already dried (they dry up when the palm no longer needs them) or they are laid out to dry in the sun. Then the dried fronds are woven snugly through a wooden support structure and even if the palapa comes apart, it can usually be reassembled. When constructed correctly, palapas are particularly effective in resisting heavy winds by letting the air flow through the fronds, and are effective in resisting the salt spray and significant rainfall common to tropical areas like Zihuatanejo. In most cases, the fronds are not chemically treated, though a coat of varnish can be used underneath, which makes the woven fronds look more attractive from the inside. Some palaperos (a person who builds palapas) will also use what is called a petate or woven mat that covers the underside of the palapa and acts as an additional waterproofing layer.

Though easily constructed, palapa roofs are not always the most economical choice. Palm fronds are often priced per frond, so depending on the size of the palapa you want to build; you may be looking at a pretty hefty price tag. Some less expensive palm fronds can be found, however they are usually of a lesser quality and will have to be replaced more often than the Mexican Fan Frond, which generally has a life span of about five years.

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Palapas can be formed to any size, from a small poolside umbrella to the impressive rooftop palapa and open sided construction found at La Casa Que Canta hotel, which keeps its guests cool, even on the hottest and most humid summer days. Simply constructed and elegant to look at, from outside or in, palapas are a mainstay of coastal architectural design and a palpable choice for those who decide to construct their dream home or business here in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Maura Taylor lives in Zihua and serves as intermediary and design consultant for home remodeling, restoration and condo finishing projects in Zihua and the surrounds. She can be reached by phone or email: zihua cell# (755) 556-2624 or destinozihua@gmail.com