Jungle Keva: Boutique Eco-Luxury in Tulum
Situated in the lush Mayan jungle of Tulum, Mexico, Jungle Keva is a boutique hotel designed by Jaque Studio in 2019. This small, five-lodge property seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, preserving 70% of the existing vegetation and using local, low-maintenance materials to create a warm, rustic atmosphere. Featuring a double-height main room, mezzanine, and indoor-outdoor bathrooms, the lodges are designed to connect guests intimately with the stunning jungle landscape.
About Jungle Keva
Nestled in the heart of Tulum, Mexico, Jungle Keva is a captivating boutique hotel designed by Jaque Studio in 2019. Remarkably, the project preserves 70% of the existing vegetation, seamlessly integrating the natural environment into the design.
Featuring five 538-square-foot (50m2) lodges, each boasting a double-height room, mezzanine, terrace, and indoor-outdoor bathroom, Jungle Keva offers a unique and immersive experience. Moreover, the social areas, including a dining space and yoga pavilion, hover over the pool, which appears to be extruded from the ground amidst the lush vegetation.
Local Materials, Timeless Elegance
Crafted with locally-sourced materials and natural textures, Jungle Keva exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. The use of “chukum,” a Mayan stucco characterized by its distinctive color and durability, lends the buildings a sense of authenticity and timelessness.
A Harmonious Blend of Old and New
The project’s design approach is a thoughtful synthesis of vernacular architecture and modern sensibilities. By scattering the various volumes across the site, Jungle Keva creates a village-like atmosphere, seamlessly blending with the Mayan jungle surroundings. The search for pure forms and natural materials results in a simple, yet captivating aesthetic that resonates with the local context.
Sustainability and Social Consciousness
Ultimately, Jungle Keva embodies a sustainable and socially-conscious design ethos. By preserving the majority of the existing vegetation and using low-maintenance, natural materials, the project minimizes its environmental impact. Furthermore, the design’s social and economic considerations ensure a harmonious integration with the local community.
Photography by César Béjar
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