An Sneak Peak At The Upcoming K'In Sustainable Boutique Hotel In Tulum, Mexico

k'In Lum Ha is a set of eight boutique family residences created by London-based Holland Harvey Architects, or what they call "jungle living," that pay attention to the area's stunning surroundings. As a result, the most specified aim is to nurture the surrounding area by restoring trees destroyed during construction and actively supporting the growth of local flora and wildlife. Modern and tropical timber elements have been used throughout the interior for such an endeavour.

The project's goal is to establish a new benchmark for ecologically friendly architecture in Riviera Maya.

From the beginning, the team has collaborated with local landscape designers, botanists, and ecologists to develop an ecological agenda for the project that includes tree retention, habitat provision for native species, and planting of local fruit plants.

The project has committed to replacing any trees that are lost as part of the construction, and the landscape will be actively managed to support the growth of natural flora and animals. The development's footprint has been minimized, with 60 percent of the property remaining as permeable landscaping or natural jungle floor.

A single piled stone wall defines the ground floor, framing and supporting the higher floors. This eye-catching architectural element is made of plentiful local limestone and incorporates building leftovers from other nearby constructions.

The conventional boundaries between inside and outside have been revised in its construction; the ground floor is now an extension of the verdant planted gardens, and vice versa, while private pools embedded in the environment are reminiscent of the area's famed "cenotes."

The dwellings are passively ventilated, with fully openable facades on two sides. Full height, bi-folding Brise-Soléil on the top floors give privacy and minimize solar gain while enabling the natural wind to cool the homes, reducing the need for mechanical cooling.

Inside, double-height areas and balconies promote air circulation and provide chances to frame stunning views of the surrounding forest. The rooftop palapa provides a 360-degree panoramic of the forest canopy as well as close-up views of tropical animals. A fully equipped kitchen, lounge, and dining room enable inhabitants to spend time amid the trees, allowing them to experience authentic jungle life.

Photographs by Studio Archetype.