Tucked away on Calle Aldama just two blocks behind the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, is the art-filled home of two creative souls – Hagar and Martin Fletcher.   

The 250-year-old home was originally part of a large family compound called the Posada Corazón owned by the Arias family.  

Almost 10 years ago, the Fletchers bought the building and did as much remodeling as was allowed by the Historic Society of San Miguel. 

So come into their cozy home filled with art, city views, plants and joy.  

At the entry there is the “Tiniest Gallery” (per the artist Hagar) in San Miguel.  A colorful tile and mirror coffee table by Californian artist Anado and a 9-foot-tall glass mirror brighten the room. 

Walls are hung with her new series of foldable fabric creations. Bronze and papier maché pieces are on display. 

Moving out to the plant-filled terrace, you’ll find an outdoor “sala” space for relaxation.  Further out is a cozy casita.  Be sure to see the bathroom with its marble sink and brass fish water faucets. 

Back across the sala, go through a kitchen with interesting zamal cabinetry and on to the dining room. 

An ancient Chinese buffet fills one wall. On either side are woodcuts by Peter Leventhal.  Several other art pieces displayed are by Hagar. 

Going upstairs (please use the handrail), you’ll find a guest room with quirky bedside lamps that must make their guests smile. 

On the small terrace outside this room is a table for two where owner Martin Fletcher has sat to write two of his nine-odd books.  

Was he inspired by a second, large circular piece on the terrace, also by Anado? 

The master bedroom has seating, a lovely old desk for Martin’s use in rainy weather and two Turkish, flat weave rugs. 

Following along the exterior terrace and down a few steps brings us to Hagar’s studio where she creates and displays her current pieces. 

Peeking into the creative space of an artist is always such a treat. 

On the roof terrace, there are 360 degree views to the west over Colonia San Antonio, north to the rooftop of the Parroquia  and up the hillside to the east. 

Often during the day, a local musician, Pepe, will be on the street below playing his guitar. Acoustic music floats up from below and we’re told the moon rises directly above that eastern hillside. 

The enchantment of this creative home closes with this rooftop garden terrace.

“ It is behind the walls you see how we live”

This should really be called a Garden and House Tour because today the gardens are the mainattraction.  

The original name of the property was “apple heart”; It is surprising to see such extensive gardens – full of fruit trees, flowers and ornamental plants – in the heart of San Miguel.  As you might expect, it is a sanctuary for birds.  

It has been owned for decades by the same family, who also gave the property comprising the botanical gardens; El Charco; to the city.  

The owners have preserved the property as a garden and orchard, producing organic food, herbs and flowers for local non-profit projects.

The main posada is an excellent example of 1960’s Mexican architecture and was designed by a member of the Canal family.  

It has a warm family atmosphere reminiscent of a Maine cottage. 

It houses an interesting collection of books, especially Mexican and international art.

“ It is behind the walls you see how we live”