Aviv House in Tulum, Mexico by CO-LAB Design Office.

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Designed by Tulum-based CO-LAB Design Office, Casa Aviv sits amidst a jungle in one of Mexico’s popular holiday destination revered for its white sand, palm tree-lined coast, pastel waters and Mayan ruins.

Situated a short distance from the beach and famed natural swimming holes – also known as cenotes – Casa Aviv emphasises outdoor living that takes full advantage of the tropical climate.

The brutalist-esque concrete structures effortlessly fuses with nature, presenting as two parallel volumes. As Casa Aviv is a rental property (yes, it is possible to visit post-COVID via Airbnb!!), CO-LAB chose a natural material palette for its durability, longevity and low maintenance.

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Across two floors, warm grey hand-polished concrete cement walls adorn the interior complemented by black terrazzo floor tiles. Carpentry and furnishings inside the house are made from charred cedarwood, adding richness and depth to the already earthy palette. Light features were custom made to fit the home by local artisans in CO-LAB’s workshop.

Accommodating a total of 4 ensuite bedrooms, the vast ceilings inside Casa Aviv are the epitome of luxurious spaciousness, becoming a backdrop of shadows reflected through the house.

Where the home’s ground level offers a mix of public and private spaces with a private pool, the two bedrooms on the upper levels are connected by a bridge above the dining and kitchen area. Bedrooms on the bottom level open up to the garden, with the master bedroom having direct access to the pool. A rooftop terrace with potted plants and lounge furniture offers panoramic views of the surrounding.

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Existing trees on the site were retained – visible through the large, framed apertures and pivoting glass doors that lead to the garden – protecting the home from prevailing winds and storms. The orientation of the house, sitting east-west, takes advantage of the cross ventilation and the north-facing orientation, which provides ample indirect natural light that flickers softly throughout the home.

CO-LAB’s deliberate minimal touches and sleek architectural style complement the jungle setting while honouring the beachy lifestyle. Nailed it.