Casa Pueblo by M Studio is Ready Made for Global Nomads in Tulum

Villa Petricor, a 300-square-meter home designed by Mexican studio CO-LAB Design Office, is located in Tulum on an angled property surrounded by tropical vegetation. The design emphasizes an intimate connection between residents and nature, drawing inspiration from the "earthy scent produced when rain falls on dry soil." The home is strategically placed among numerous trees, with windows specifically positioned to offer captivating views of the surrounding flora. The design team highlighted that the shadows cast by the vegetation extend nature's presence into every room. The entrance features a concrete block brise-soleil, offering glimpses into the interior while maintaining privacy. Upon entering, residents encounter interiors characterized by arched openings and cozy niches, fostering a seamless indoor-outdoor flow and a sense of openness throughout the home. The ground floor accommodates two bedrooms, an open lounge area, and a combined cooking and dining space. Large doors on this level provide access to a terrace and a swimming pool. CO-LAB describes the home's interiors as "sculpted and monolithic." The upper level is dedicated to a split-level main suite, which includes a sleeping area, a lounge, a bathroom, and a terrace. A notable feature of this suite is its vaulted ceiling. The suite also incorporates built-in furniture, such as a platform bed and wall-integrated benches, contributing to the cohesive design. Custom finishes and pivoting windows, constructed from rolled, stainless-steel tube frames, further reinforce the monolithic aesthetic. The walls are finished with polished cement, and the floors feature terrazzo, both colored with a mineral pigment. Four skylights are incorporated into the design to maximize natural light entry. The studio explained that the washed light on the walls and floors accentuates the texture of the polished cement interiors, showcasing the unique handiwork of local artisans. These design elements collectively enhance the home's sculptural quality, creating an environment that balances fluidity with stillness and deeply integrates with its natural surroundings. #VillaPetricor #TulumArchitecture #COLABDesignOffice #ConcreteHome #TropicalLiving #IndoorOutdoorLiving #RusticModernDesign #SustainableDesign #MexicanArchitecture

The article describes the transformation of an old Mexican house into an artist's retreat for financial adviser Dorsey Gardner, located in San Miguel de Allende. Gardner initially sought a small studio but acquired a significantly larger 19th-century cottage, which was later expanded to 12,000 square feet. The property, built in the late 1700s, was surrounded by high walls and presented several challenges. Upon acquiring the property, Gardner faced initial issues, including a dense "cactus farm" on the premises. Hundreds of cacti, including a large candelabra cactus, were carefully relocated. The house also featured numerous false ceilings installed in the 1950s in its oldest section, which architect Sebastian Zavala removed to restore the original height and appearance of the rooms. Zavala also enhanced some ceilings with grand wooden crossbeams and refinished existing 1950s wood doors and windows with a light whitewash. During the renovation, a hand-painted frieze in the primary bedroom was uncovered and preserved. Gardner, who had previously undertaken remodeling projects on his own homes in Boston, entrusted the design of this Mexican property to Zavala and Paris-born, San Miguel–based designer Anne-Marie Midy. Gardner expressed a preference for a neutral aesthetic, distinct from traditional Mexican decor. He provided the designers with inspiration from magazines and gave them "carta blanca" for the project before embarking on an extended trip. Midy, along with her partner Jorge Almada, founded Casa Midy, a design firm specializing in furniture and accessories. Gardner's house became their first major interior design project. He had discovered Midy and Almada at their former bistro, Plum, known for its distinctive all-purple decor, which Midy noted was an effective way to attract clients. Zavala converted the original structure into a three-bedroom, five-bathroom artist's retreat, maintaining the house's Spanish Colonial architectural elements, stone walls, and archways. He added a spacious studio and installed robust columns on the patio, using locally quarried stone. A new second-floor guest room was also added, offering views of the 17th-century parish church's Gothic-style tower, an 1880 addition inspired by European postcards. Midy and Almada adhered to Gardner's request for a more understated Mexican interior design. They avoided extensive use of decorative elements like talavera tiles, except for a minimal application in the kitchen, and chose muted colors. However, they integrated rich local decorative resources, using jute from Yucatán for curtains, linens from local cotton mills, and furniture sourced from regional antiques shops. Even the traditional lime-and-pigment paint was mixed with San Miguel dirt to achieve a warmer tone. Midy and Almada also designed furniture and accessories for the house, such as iron sconces, a leather cocktail table, and bed linens. They collaborated with Zavala to create trench-like fountains inspired by hacienda horse troughs. The project concluded after a year, with Gardner expressing immense satisfaction, declaring the house fit for a king. #MexicanDesign #ArtistStudio #SanMiguelDeAllende #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SpanishColonial #ArchitecturalRestoration #CasaMidy #LuxuryHome

Stellah De Ville, a designer and ceramicist, found her calling in working with her hands, starting with ceramics classes in San Francisco in 2014. Her career, which began in fashion in Australia, evolved into interior and product design. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, De Ville relocated to Mexico, first to Oaxaca, where she opened Stellah Gallery and undertook a home renovation. During this period, frequent trips to Mexico City exposed her to the city's dynamic design and fine art scene, leading her to seek a more permanent residence there. Her search for a rental home led her to a 1930s Casona in La Roma, Mexico City, the second listing she encountered. Despite being back in Oaxaca at the time, her friends toured the property on her behalf, with one friend's enthusiastic reaction to the checkerboard flooring in an upstairs sunroom sealing De Ville's decision. She secured a five-year lease on the property, which had previously served as an office for a film production company for 12 years. The Casona required extensive work to transform it into a functional home and event space. Key challenges included the absence of hot water and gas, significant bathroom repairs, a full exterior paint job, and stucco damage. Her landlord provided funds for essential renovations, while De Ville personally oversaw additional improvements, such as cultivating a tropical garden. The house, named Casa de Reunión, has since become a venue for various events, including dinner parties for 25 guests, pop-up art shows, and even opera performances. De Ville emphasizes the humbling lessons learned from ceramics, particularly in embracing failure and imperfection. She describes the house as having a unique character, with almost every floor featuring a different pattern and color, including green, pink, and red. This diverse flooring, unusual in her native Australia, influenced her approach to incorporating color into her designs. The entryway floor, split by an earthquake, was partially re-tiled, and De Ville commissioned replacement tiles for existing holes, highlighting her commitment to preserving the home's original elements while addressing necessary repairs. Respecting the house's materiality was a central theme in her renovation. Original terrazzo elements, including the stairs and a previously damaged foyer shelf, were restored or recreated. For the kitchen terrazzo, De Ville selected pink, yellow, and green tones to integrate the house's existing color palette. This work was executed by women from a local factory found by architect Alberto Franco, involving a four-day installation. The original stained glass window was also partially restored using pieces discovered on-site. The age of the house meant there were no straight lines, adding to its unique charm. The casual dining area, designed to accommodate her cookbook collection, provided functional space. A cabinet found in the house mirrored the floor pattern, and a rug from her previous California home complemented the grid of the windows, creating a cohesive aesthetic. The bathroom featured original wall tiles and tub, with new, locally custom-made basket-weave flooring designed to appear aged. A saffron paint color, initially considered for the exterior courtyard, was instead used in the guest bedroom/office, demonstrating adaptability in design choices. Her creative workspace, accessible through the primary closet, allows her to engage in ceramics for three hours each morning before dedicating time to her custom furniture, lighting, and art collaboration business. The article concludes by showcasing De Ville's dedication to her craft and her integrated approach to living and working within her unique Mexico City home, which she hopes to activate as an artist residency. #MexicoCityHome #DesignerHomeTour #CeramicsStudio #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArtResidency #LaRoma #TileDesign #Terrazzo

Designer Jules Moore undertook a comprehensive renovation of a Pueblo-style home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, which had been vacant and in disrepair for a decade. Despite the extensive damage, the property's prime location on a canyon ridge, offering panoramic views of piñon pines, cypress trees, and daily sunrises and sunsets, captivated Moore and inspired her to take on the project. The existing structure, while dilapidated, featured the traditional adobe construction characteristic of Pueblo architecture, a sustainable building method that appealed to Moore's design philosophy. This ancient technique provides natural thermal regulation, keeping the interior cool in summer and warm in winter. The renovation aimed to honor the historic Pueblo architecture while integrating sleek, contemporary details, creating a dynamic interplay between past and present. The home’s original elements, such as organic forms, heavy doors, large timber features, prominent timber ceiling beams, and smooth plaster walls, were preserved and highlighted. Traditional kiva fireplaces with hand-tooled plaster benches were retained throughout the house, adding to its authentic charm. Moore, having moved to Santa Fe on a whim, found solace and a unique connection to the adobe walls, describing their soothing and calming effect. The interior color palette was inspired by the natural surroundings, featuring earth tones. Timber rafters were stained to echo the surrounding trees, the kitchen island's soft gray matched the bark of piñon pines, and snowy white walls were contrasted with deep bronze window frames. This neutral base serves as a backdrop for textures, weaves, and claywork from local artisans, reflecting Moore's eclectic design sensibilities developed through her travels. One of the most significant changes involved expanding the windows to maximize the 360-degree views. The small original windows were replaced with much larger Marvin Ultimate Narrow Frame windows and doors, quadrupling their size. This alteration brought an abundance of natural light into the 3,800-square-foot home, which comprises three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a spacious living area, a formal dining room, and a large kitchen. Moore chose Marvin’s elegant Ultimate line in a dark bronze finish, which creates a striking contrast with the organic plastered walls and makes the wilderness an unobstructed painting in every room. A particularly innovative addition is the glass-enclosed Marvin Skycove in the primary bedroom, offering a unique space to experience the surrounding landscape, whether during a lightning show, a monsoon, or snowfall. The home now serves as a gallery for Moore's extensive collection of objets d’art from around the world and new acquisitions from local artisans. These pieces are strategically arranged within the home's niches and ledges, with items like ladders repurposed as hanging storage and rugs transformed into wall hangings. Moore describes her daily routine of opening the large windows to the mountain air, enjoying gatherings in the living area with views of the Jemez mountain range, and falling asleep under the New Mexico stars. The project successfully transformed a neglected property into a vibrant, modern home that respects its historical roots and integrates seamlessly with its breathtaking natural environment. #PuebloStyle #HomeRenovation #SantaFeArchitecture #ModernDesign #SustainableDesign #AdobeConstruction #JulesMooreStudio #MarvinWindows #InteriorDesign

Patrón, the premium spirits company, has created a luxury guest house, La Casona Guest House, at its Hacienda Patrón Distillery in Jalisco, Mexico. This exclusive facility serves as a first-hand brand experience for VIPs, media partners, and customers, allowing them to immerse themselves in the history and craft of Patrón tequilas. The guest house integrates art, architecture, local design, and Hispanic heritage, reflecting the brand's creation process. The project was a collaborative effort between Patrón’s architectural department and three local firms: Joaquin Homs Studio for interior design and interior landscaping, GVA architects for general landscape, and Grupo CASGO for construction management. The 20-room guest house, not open to the public, features dining and entertainment areas, a full-service bar, and conference facilities, offering world-class hospitality. Designed in a traditional Spanish Colonial style, La Casona incorporates architectural details from 1800s Spanish, French, and Italian designs to acknowledge their historical influence on Mexico. These traditional elements are seamlessly blended with modern design to achieve a cohesive, updated aesthetic. Joaquin Homs, who was deeply involved in the project, noted the correlation between the historical hacienda economic systems and the labor-intensive tequila distillation process. He emphasized the importance of community involvement, engaging over 2,000 local townspeople in creating almost all interior and exterior design elements. The design team implemented bioclimatic architectural processes to suit the local climate and pay homage to historical hacienda design principles. Features such as 16’ 6” high ceilings and strategically angled windows ensure optimal natural lighting and ventilation. Custom lighting systems compensate for variations in natural light throughout the day. The main building’s statement chandelier, crafted by local artisan Ernesto Cruz, features recycled glass and reclaimed wood with working bees on agave plants, symbolizing the importance of agave bees in tequila production. Other lamps and sconces are handmade from forged iron, metal, copper, hand-blown glass, and ceramic tile by local Mexican artisans. Attention to detail extends to the furnishings and fabrics, which are custom-made. Mattresses are custom-sized, and linens are locally sourced. All furniture is custom-designed, echoing early 1900s Mexican character while being modernized with various textiles. Wallpapers from Italy and France, textiles from Mexico and the U.S., French linens, and sustainable silk and grass fiber wallpapers are used throughout. Peter Leder, Patrón’s head of hospitality operations, highlighted the intention to convey Patrón’s legacy as a modern company rooted in heritage. Sustainability is a key aspect, with features like water recycling, rain absorption and well replenishment, red clay walls for climate and acoustic protection, LED lighting, and the use of cacti and semi-desert vegetation for reduced water consumption. Local materials such as Cantera (limestone), marble, onyx, clay tiles, and red bricks are utilized for their natural, reusable, durable, and biodegradable qualities. La Casona exemplifies a growing trend in design, where modern elements harmonize with old-world styles to create warm, inviting, and livable spaces, making commercial hospitality venues feel more like homes. #SpanishColonialDesign #ModernFlair #GuestHouse #MexicanArchitecture #LuxuryTravel #SustainableDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship #BioclimaticArchitecture #InteriorDesign #PatronTequila

This Malibu home, constructed in 2014 in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, prioritizes indoor-outdoor living, reflecting the coastal Southern California lifestyle. The design and build were a collaborative effort between Evens Architects, Alana Homesley Interior Design, and the homeowners. The property is situated on a gently sloping site overlooking Santa Monica Bay. Central to the home's design is the loggia, an outdoor room equipped with a fireplace and underfloor heating, offering comfort on cooler days and evenings while providing shelter from the sun and ocean breeze. The loggia features an exquisite vaulted ceiling, a prominent design element. The entry foyer sets the aesthetic tone with a blend of casual sophistication and an old-world vibe. Glazed Moroccan zellige tile risers on the staircase pay homage to traditional Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, and integral colored plaster walls contribute to an organic and earthy feel. Furnishings in the foyer include a hand-carved frame, an antiqued mirror, and a Spanish console table, complemented by sconces from Revival Antiques and an antique Khotan rug. The gallery, serving as a transitional space, connects the entry to the loggia. It features broad steel French doors, emphasizing the indoor-outdoor theme. Light-colored stone floors and walls balance the visual weight of dark wood beams and ceilings, with walls in a warm cream-colored integral plaster and French limestone floors from Exquisite Surfaces. The kitchen is designed with a European farmhouse aesthetic, characterized by an earthy and casual sensibility. The interior designer balanced the heavy hand-carved beams by painting upper cabinets in a creamy color to match the plaster walls, incorporating glass fronts and limestone counters to visually lighten the space. Design details include a small window under the range hood for full backsplash tiling, vintage kilim-covered barstools, a farmhouse-style upper island, a soapstone-topped lower island, and walnut lower cabinets. The kitchen's direct access to the loggia integrates it into the family's daily outdoor living. The primary bedroom suite is oriented to maximize ocean views, featuring a chaise and chair facing the Pacific Ocean and a window seat for reading. A rounded corner fireplace with an intricately carved stone surround serves as a focal point. An early 19th-century French cherrywood armoire complements the rich wood tones of the ceiling beams and oak flooring, while pale plaster walls and upholstery lighten the room. The primary bathroom draws inspiration from Moroccan riads, employing a warm, monotone palette. A freestanding copper bathtub is a key feature, framed by a chamfered niche with French doors opening to the ocean view. Limestone floors and plaster walls continue the home's cohesive design, and the doorway alcove is tiled with Moroccan zellige field tiles. Dark wood vanities are designed to appear visually light with open shelves, and gently rounded mirrors complement carved plaster niches. A vintage rug introduces soft color. The exterior features a pleasingly symmetrical approach with a hand-hewn wooden gate, an allée of olive trees, and decorative bronze gates leading to a lushly planted entry courtyard. The courtyard walls are constructed from Santa Barbara sandstone rubble. Terraces cascade down the gently sloping site beyond the loggia, providing spaces for dining, lounging, and swimming in a resort-like Mediterranean landscape. A large lap pool is positioned at the edge of the slope, drawing the eye towards the bay view. The design reflects the homeowners' preference for an outdoor lifestyle, creating a blueprint for comfortable and gracious indoor-outdoor living in Southern California. #MalibuHome #SpanishColonialRevival #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #Loggia #KitchenDesign #BedroomDesign #BathroomDesign #OutdoorLivingSpaces

The "Tierra Tulum Project," a newly finished four-bedroom residence in Holmes Beach, combines coastal comfort with an earthy, boho-modern aesthetic. The home was designed by Emily Moss Designs for a couple with a growing real estate portfolio who enjoy travel. It was inspired by their recent trip to Tulum and was built with the flexibility to serve as a primary residence, a vacation getaway, or a rental property. The design incorporates limewashed walls, arched ceilings, and various layered textures to evoke a boutique hotel atmosphere. Engineered hardwood floors provide both durability and warmth throughout the interior. Natural materials are prominently featured in the home's design to ground its airy color scheme. Walnut beams add a touch of organic warmth, and Ulite rock formations surround the resort-style pool, seamlessly integrating the outdoor and indoor aesthetics. The primary suite is a focal point, with double sliders that open to expansive views of the pool and the adjacent beach. An air vent, which initially posed a design challenge, was ingeniously transformed into a built-in feature, mirroring the custom millwork found in the living room and enhancing design coherence. The primary bathroom further showcases sophisticated design with a floating vanity and a freestanding tub encased in stone, reflecting a meticulous attention to detail and material selection. Among the home's various distinctive spaces, the office stands out due to its rich color palette and architectural ceiling. This area is distinguished by a pre-lit niche wall that features arched alcoves of differing shapes and sizes, adding visual depth and character. The use of blue limewash walls and artwork from Uttermost contributes to the office's striking and cohesive tonal drenching. This space exemplifies the thoughtful layering of design elements that makes each part of the home unique and memorable. The kitchen is designed with visual continuity, featuring a subtly paint-dipped island that echoes the hue used in the adjacent laundry room. A handcrafted blue Zellige tile backsplash provides additional depth and ties into the island’s color, creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing environment. The living room on the first floor incorporates a soft pale blue limewash accent wall, contributing a coastal touch, while an arrangement of rattan pendant lights overhead introduces a natural, earthy feel and serves as a striking focal point. The dining room, which overlooks the living room, maintains consistency with neutral tones in its flooring, table, and chairs. The pool area, designed by Tom Sanger Pools, is characterized by Miami Pebble and Ulite rock formations, with nearby rocks subtly repeating the stone details from the primary bath, reinforcing a cohesive design narrative throughout the property. #EmilyMossDesigns #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #BohoModern #CoastalLiving #TulumInspired #LuxuryHome #ArchitecturalDesign

The Patio House, designed by Solum Studio, is a residential project located in Sicily, Italy, specifically in the province of Syracuse. The house is positioned on a narrow strip of land that extends towards the sea, concluding on a cliff, and is designed to fully occupy the buildable area of the plot. Its architectural concept focuses on creating an introverted oasis that strategically opens up to embrace the seascape through its living areas. The design of the Patio House is characterized by its longitudinal development, running from the access road towards the sea. This layout allows for a sequential experience, starting from an enclosed, private arrival point and gradually transitioning to expansive views of the sea. The introverted nature of the initial spaces provides a sense of seclusion and privacy, which then gives way to an open and airy living area that acts as a direct interface with the natural coastal environment. Key architectural elements and materials used in the project include concrete, which contributes to the structural integrity and aesthetic of the building. The choice of materials and the overall design aim to create a harmonious balance between robust construction and a connection to the surrounding landscape. The project's emphasis on a patio or courtyard structure suggests an interior-focused design that likely incorporates natural light and ventilation, enhancing the living experience while maintaining privacy from external views, except for the deliberate openings towards the sea. The project was completed in 2025 and covers an area of 400 square meters. The architectural team involved Mattia Agates, Lorenzo Campagna, Filippo Gismondi, and Alessandro Loda from Solum Studio, with Gian Mario Vecchiato as a collaborator. Nicolò Panzeri is credited for the photography, capturing the essence of the house and its relationship with the Sicilian landscape. Manufacturers such as Carl Hansen, Fornace Sant'Anselmo, Ideal Work, Sicilianagessi, and dnd contributed to various aspects of the house, indicating a selection of quality materials and furnishings. This residential architecture project is categorized under houses and highlights contemporary design principles tailored to its unique coastal site. The strategic placement and orientation of the house demonstrate an understanding of both environmental factors and the desire to create a private yet visually connected living space. The use of a patio and the intentional opening towards the sea suggest a thoughtful approach to balancing indoor and outdoor living, privacy, and engagement with the natural surroundings. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #Avola #Italy #SolumStudio #Concrete #CoastalDesign #PatioHouse

Musician and producer Bobby Diggs, famously known as RZA from the Wu-Tang Clan, and his wife Talani, enlisted designer Maya Williams to transform their sprawling 12,900-square-foot oceanfront Malibu residence into a soulful and playful sanctuary. This marks their third collaboration with Williams, who they trust to actualize their design visions. The primary objective was to infuse warmth and intimacy into the large space, balancing expansive areas with cozy, private nooks, all while capitalizing on the sweeping ocean views and high ceilings. Williams aimed to create a home that fosters creativity for Bobby, while providing a sense of peace and positive energy for both. The couple was particularly drawn to the creative energy of Malibu, a feeling Bobby attributes to the ocean winds, which he believes enhance his songwriting process. Williams approached the design of each room as a distinct composition, leading the couple to affectionately name their home “The Temple.” The grand salon, which serves as the entry point, embodies a Zen atmosphere with bamboo-clad walls and a sculptural light fixture reminiscent of piano keys, suspended over sound wave-patterned rugs. Music is a central theme throughout the home. A dedicated record room, located beneath the stairwell, was designed to house Bobby’s extensive vinyl collection and function as a relaxed listening lounge, ideal for entertaining. The adjacent elevator features a custom gold wallpaper by Phillip Jeffries, incorporating the iconic Wu-Tang Clan logo, effectively turning it into a unique selfie room. The design team also created a luxurious hair salon, drawing inspiration from Talani’s past as a successful fashion model in the 1990s. This space showcases a refined elegance with black-and-white stonework, custom-fabricated from two types of marble, subtly referencing the Chanel camellia and maintaining a monochromatic, glamorous aesthetic. The Pacific Ocean plays a significant role in the home's design, with Williams ensuring that furniture heights were kept low to preserve uninterrupted sightlines. The primary suite, offering views on three sides, utilizes a restrained color palette of neutrals, champagnes, and subtle blues to complement the serene coastal landscape. Outdoors, the material language of the interior extends to durable wood finishes, adding warmth to the pool area and lending a Mediterranean touch. Each of the six guest rooms is uniquely themed and named after a specific gemstone, providing a playful and individualized experience for visitors. Additional amenities include an intimate bar and a cozy home theater. Through Williams’s careful use of color and texture, these elements combine to create a welcoming and comfortable retreat that guests often liken to a “speakeasy resort,” and are reluctant to leave. #MalibuHome #CelebrityHome #InteriorDesign #MayaWilliamsDesign #WuTangClan #LuxuryLiving #OceanfrontProperty #MusicInspiredDesign #ZenDesign #CustomInteriors

The Litibú Bungalow, designed by PALMA architects Ilse Cáredenas, Regina de Hoyos, Diego Escamilla, and Juan Luis Rivera, is a 50 square meter structure located in Litibu, a coastal town in the Mexican Pacific. Completed in 2020, the bungalow is characterized by its separation into two distinct volumes: one housing the bedroom and the other containing the living space, connected by a central covered terrace. This design strategically integrates the surrounding natural environment by allowing the breeze and jungle views to permeate the central axis of the house. The terrace serves as a transitional space, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior living, and offering an open-air area for relaxation and connection with nature. The architectural approach emphasizes simplicity and respect for the local climate and materials. The bungalow's structure is predominantly concrete, a material choice that contributes to its durability and blends with the rugged landscape. The use of concrete also provides thermal mass, helping to regulate indoor temperatures in the tropical climate. The design incorporates large openings and an open layout to facilitate natural ventilation and maximize daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting and cooling. This thoughtful consideration of passive design strategies enhances the living experience while minimizing environmental impact. The interior spaces are designed to be functional and minimalist, reflecting a contemporary aesthetic that prioritizes comfort and connection to the outdoors. The bedroom volume offers a private sanctuary, while the living volume, with its expansive views, functions as a versatile space for daily activities. The modest footprint of the bungalow aligns with principles of sustainable living and efficient space utilization. The project's location in Litibu, a region known for its natural beauty, further underscores the design's intention to create a dwelling that harmonizes with its surroundings rather than imposing upon them. The project was documented by photographers Luis Young and María Rivera, whose images capture the bungalow's seamless integration with its site and its interplay of light and shadow. The curation by Clara Ott highlights the bungalow's design merits, emphasizing its innovative use of space and materials in a challenging tropical context. The architectural firm PALMA, with this project, demonstrates an understanding of regional architectural traditions while introducing modern design sensibilities. The Litibú Bungalow stands as an example of how small-scale residential architecture can achieve both aesthetic appeal and environmental responsiveness. #ResidentialArchitecture #Concrete #TropicalArchitecture #SmallHouseDesign #MexicanArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalPhotography #MinimalistDesign

The Rio Cedro House, designed by Plan:b arquitectos and completed in 2011, is situated in Moñitos, Colombia, on the Caribbean Sea coastline. This architectural project integrates with a tropical dry forest ecosystem, emphasizing a design approach that respects and responds to its natural surroundings. The house's location allows it to interact closely with both the forest and the sea, informing its material choices, spatial organization, and environmental strategies. Sergio Gomez provided the photography for the project. The design of the Rio Cedro House is characterized by its open structure and use of locally available materials. Wood, in particular, is a prominent material, selected for its aesthetic qualities, sustainability, and ability to blend with the natural environment. The house features elevated platforms and permeable enclosures that facilitate natural ventilation and offer panoramic views of the landscape. This open-plan approach helps to blur the boundaries between the interior and exterior spaces, promoting a continuous interaction with nature. The strategic placement of windows and openings maximizes natural light and minimizes the need for artificial cooling, contributing to the building's energy efficiency. Environmental considerations are central to the Rio Cedro House's design. The architects focused on creating a structure that is both resilient to the tropical climate and minimally impactful on the delicate ecosystem. The elevated design helps protect the house from potential flooding and allows the natural ground cover to thrive beneath. The use of natural materials and passive design techniques reflects a commitment to sustainable architecture. The house acts as a model for integrating modern living with environmental preservation, demonstrating how structures can coexist harmoniously with diverse natural habitats. The house's program includes various living spaces tailored to its coastal forest setting. These spaces are designed to be flexible and adaptable, catering to different activities while maintaining a strong connection to the outdoors. The layout promotes a fluid movement between rooms and encourages occupants to engage with the surrounding environment. This project exemplifies how thoughtful architectural design can enhance the human experience by immersing residents in a natural setting while adhering to principles of sustainability and ecological sensitivity. The integration of the house with its site in Moñitos, Colombia, showcases a balanced approach to development in sensitive ecological zones. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #Colombia #Moñitos #WoodConstruction #TropicalArchitecture #SustainableDesign

Tulum, once a quiet fishing village characterized by rustic cabanas, has evolved into a prominent destination within the Riviera Maya, attracting diverse age groups to its holistic lifestyle and numerous exquisite properties. The region, situated south of Cancun and Playa del Carmen, offers a range of accommodations from luxurious bungalows directly on the sand to wellness retreats featuring sunrise yoga with ocean views. While some large luxury hotels, such as Conrad Tulum, have emerged with extensive amenities like five pools and eleven restaurants, Tulum continues to offer a variety of boutique, intimate respites. Examples include Chablé, a ten-suite retreat in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, and Xela Tulum, a twelve-room property with an open-air living room and a rooftop ideal for sunset cocktails. This transformation has positioned Tulum as a design-forward hub, where architecture harmoniously integrates with the surrounding jungle. Accessibility to this part of Mexico's Caribbean coast has improved with the introduction of the new Tulum International Airport, offering direct flights from major US cities such as Miami, Atlanta, and Dallas-Fort Worth. This enhanced connectivity supports a broad spectrum of travel preferences, whether visitors seek a luxury experience, an all-inclusive resort, or a budget-friendly boutique hotel focused on wellness. Tulum is characterized by its white-sand beaches, lush natural environment, and a vibrant coastal energy that distinguishes it from its northern counterparts. The article highlights several notable hotels, each offering distinct features. Mezzanine Tulum, an adults-only property located on a rocky bluff within Parque del Jaguar, provides a secluded experience with ocean views, a cliffside pool, and a Thai restaurant. Siwa Tulum, behind an intricately carved wooden door, features private villas, plunge pools, and jungle-framed serenity, blending residential comfort with boutique luxury. It includes a cenote-style restaurant with a subterranean bar and wellness facilities like Inhala Spa and rooftop yoga. Radhoo Tulum, part of Namron Hospitality, offers a jungle camp ambiance with open-air reception areas and rooms designed with safari-lodge aesthetics. Its facilities include a pool and access to the Michelin-recognized Nü Tulum restaurant. Casa Chablé, echoing an earlier era of Tulum, is located within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and offers a private home atmosphere with five guest rooms and five oceanfront suites, an on-site Yucatecan menu, and sunset cocktails. The Beach Tulum is an intimate, adults-only retreat with 28 rooms, private plunge pools, and hot tubs, positioned between the beach and the hotel zone. Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya is a sprawling luxury resort with 349 guest rooms, five pools, and eleven restaurants, providing a comprehensive resort experience. Be Tulum offers a smaller, character-rich environment popular with honeymooners and food enthusiasts, featuring outdoor showers and a jungle-nestled feel. Hotel Bardo, an adults-only hotel, focuses on wellness with sound healing and yoga classes, offering loft-style villas with private plunge pools and outdoor gardens. Olas Tulum is a secluded beach bungalow at the end of the Beach Road, emphasizing a personal, communal experience with organic meals and few amenities. Our Habitas provides ultra-luxe rooms with canvas walls and palapa roofs, designed for guests seeking a blend of vibrant nightlife and morning wellness activities. Casa Maya Kaan, located in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, offers an escape centered on wellness with organic menus and extensive spa treatments. Nômade, a seaside hotel with nearly 100 rooms, maintains intimacy through bungalows, suites, and treehouses, emphasizing wellness programs and a diverse culinary offering. Holistika, a boutique hotel and holistic center, provides a respite rooted in transformation through wellness programming and minimalist accommodations. Hotel Panamera, rebranded from Casa Pueblo, features a distinctive terra-cotta-and-cream-checkered pool and sunlit rooms with sea views. Hotel Esencia, a luxurious hideaway north of Tulum, boasts three restaurants, two pools, and a spa overlooking a cenote. Hotel Muaré is an adults-only retreat with 26 thatch-roofed villas, recognized for its architecture and nature-integrated design. Lula Seaside Boutique Hotel offers understated luxury with whitewashed facades and cobalt accents, blending wellness with design-forward aesthetics. La Valise Tulum features A-frame, palapa-style structures with beachfront or jungle-facing suites, multiple pools, and organic meals. Trobbu Luxury Villas is a collection of all-inclusive villas suitable for groups, offering extensive amenities and curated activities. #TulumHotels #LuxuryTravel #BoutiqueHotels #WellnessRetreats #MexicoTravel #BeachDestinations #HotelDesign #CaribbeanCoast #RivieraMaya

The author shares the initial details and the 'before' tour of their Malibu beach house, named Zuma Beach House, purchased in August 2020. The article begins by addressing frequently asked questions about the property and the upcoming renovation project. The acquisition of the Malibu house was prompted by a re-evaluation of life choices during the early months of the pandemic. The increased flexibility in work and school arrangements, coupled with the recent sale of their studio space in Austin, led the author and their family to pursue their long-held dream of owning a vacation home by the beach. The decision was not a sudden one, as the couple had been discussing a beach house for years, but the pandemic accelerated their timeline. The search for the property led them to a 1950s bungalow listed on Redfin located on the north end of Malibu. Despite its 'crazy floor plan,' the house captivated them with its sunset views over the Pacific, refreshing sea breezes, and existing citrus and avocado trees. A price drop prompted an immediate visit, and despite a stressful few months, they successfully acquired the house. Since then, they have been collaborating with architect Doug Burdge to redesign the space, aiming to align it with their vision and accommodate their family's lifestyle. The article clarifies that the family does not have existing ties to Malibu, as the author is from Texas and her husband is from San Diego, with most of their family residing in Austin. However, both the author and her husband have always felt a strong connection to the West Coast. Their personal experiences in Los Angeles and Malibu, including a memorable trip and visits to local homes and farms, solidified their affection for the area. They were particularly drawn to the north part of Malibu for its surf culture, focus on nature, and abundance of hiking trails, perceiving it as a more laid-back environment compared to the bustling pace of their lives in Austin. The Malibu house is situated on just under an acre, offering views of Zuma Beach and featuring mature palm, citrus, and avocado trees. It is located on a quiet street adjacent to a horse farm. While the property boasts charming elements, it also presented significant challenges. A prominent electrical pole obstructs the beach view, an issue the family has been diligently working with the city to resolve by burying it underground. Additionally, the existing 1,400-square-foot house suffers from low horizontal ceilings and a confusing floor plan, which makes navigating the interior difficult for guests. The renovation plans involve demolishing most interior walls to create a more functional layout. The renovation will involve maintaining the original footprint of the house while completely reconfiguring the interior rooms. A major addition will be a 1,000-square-foot great room, encompassing a large open kitchen and living area. All ceilings will be vaulted to enhance the sense of airiness and openness. The existing 600-square-foot guest house will undergo a gut renovation, transforming it into a chic, boutique-hotel-style one-bedroom loft. #MalibuRenovation #ZumaBeachHouse #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalRedesign #CoastalLiving #PandemicInspired #CaliforniaLifestyle

Mexican design firm Simon Hamui was commissioned to create bespoke furniture and millwork for AdH House, a minimalist two-story home in Mexico City designed by Francesc Rifé Studio. The home, located in the residential Lomas de Chapultepec neighborhood, features a dark grey facade and black aluminum shutters. Simon Hamui's task was to complement the existing contemporary architecture and interior, which was finished with cream-colored walls, natural stone, and wood surfaces, while also integrating the owners' art collection and amplifying their lifestyle. In the living room, Simon Hamui designed a custom coffee table and matching bench using honed, grand antique marble and starphire glass. These pieces are distinguished by sculptural solid brass legs and an integrated quartzite lamp that also serves as a support for the glass tabletop. The same quartzite used in the coffee table is repeated in the adjacent bar mirrors, and the aged brass detailing is also incorporated into the bar's base, creating a cohesive aesthetic throughout the space. A key architectural element in the dining room is a slatted screen divider. This divider features an aged brass frame, smoked glass, and thin wood slats, providing privacy for the dining area while still allowing natural light to penetrate. An aged eucalyptus wood console with a grey quartzite countertop and brass accents is seamlessly integrated into this room divider on the dining room side. The dining table mirrors these material choices with a stone top and removable smoked eucalyptus extensions, allowing for versatility in accommodating larger gatherings or serving as decorative consoles. The house also features a glass-walled, temperature-controlled wine cellar. Within this space, rectangular display cases made from starphire glass showcase wine bottles on inset satin aluminum racks, illuminated by integrated LED lighting. The design emphasizes a pure display of the bottles, arranged to create a rhythmic, tapestry-like visual element that enhances the exterior view and invites closer inspection. A Grigio Carnico marble table within the cellar provides a functional surface for small entertaining events. Responding to the evolving needs of the homeowners, a study was added after the home's initial completion, designed by Hamui in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. This office space is conceived as a functional wooden box, with walls and ceiling clad in eucalyptus. Micro-perforations and sound insulation were incorporated to ensure privacy and optimal working conditions. The study includes a floor-to-ceiling bookcase lined with suede leather and brass details, complemented by an angular, stainless steel chandelier by Barcelona designer Jaime Tresserra. In the family room, a large figured eucalyptus bookcase with brass bookstands and LED lighting is built into the wall behind the sofa. This bookcase displays a textured Jason Martin painting and antique atlases. On the opposite side of the room, a millwork unit houses a television and a desk, further demonstrating Hamui's comprehensive approach to integrated furniture design. #MexicoCity #InteriorDesign #CustomFurniture #MinimalistDesign #LuxuryInteriors #FrancescRifeStudio #SimonHamui #ResidentialDesign #BespokeMillwork

In the Las Lomas neighborhood of Mexico City, Taller Héctor Barroso has completed the Sierra Mimbres project, a multi-family dwelling designed to accommodate three brothers with distinct living preferences. The four-story building, constructed on an angled site measuring 15 by 17 meters, stands on the foundations of a previously demolished home. The architectural objective was to maximize the existing footprint while optimizing views of the surrounding landscape. The building's design features rectilinear volumes and incorporates a material palette of white concrete, steel, and wood, selected for their durability and low maintenance requirements. Extensive use of large glass panels ensures abundant natural light penetration and frames panoramic views. The Sierra Mimbres complex encompasses a total area of 1,355 square meters. The ground and first floors each house a unit with nearly identical layouts, comprising a public area, a master suite, and an additional bedroom. The third apartment occupies the entire second floor and extends into a glazed pavilion on the rooftop, which offers expansive 180-degree views of the city. The interiors are characterized by a modern yet inviting aesthetic, achieved through the application of earthy materials, soft textures, and direct engagement with the greenery outside. Stucco walls, laminated wood floors, and oak cabinetry contribute to a warm and relaxed living environment within each apartment. Throughout the structure, balconies and terraces are strategically integrated to provide residents with opportunities for outdoor relaxation and to enjoy the scenery. The ground level of the property is enveloped by lush vegetation and secured by a protective fence. This project builds upon Taller Héctor Barroso's prior works, such as the caramel-colored LC710 apartment complex in Colonia del Valle and the white concrete S House, which is notable for its arrangement around a shallow pool. The design philosophy consistently aims to create homes that are both functional and aesthetically integrated with their specific environmental contexts. Sierra Mimbres exemplifies contemporary residential architecture in Mexico City, joining other notable projects in the area that explore diverse material applications and design approaches. These include a board-marked concrete dwelling by PPAA Arquitectos, a home crafted from mud bricks and teak wood by DCPP, and a courtyard home by Taller Paralelo, which repurposed a formerly abandoned building. The careful consideration of resident needs, site constraints, and material choices underscores a commitment to creating distinctive and harmonious living spaces within the vibrant urban fabric of Mexico City. #ResidentialArchitecture #MexicoCity #MultiFamilyHousing #WhiteConcrete #ContemporaryDesign #TallerHectorBarroso #SustainableMaterials #UrbanLiving