located in tulum, a town on the caribbean coastline of mexico?s yucatán peninsula, this medium density apartment complex has been designed to foster a sense of community among residents. completed by reyes ri?os + larrai?n arquitectos and gabriel konzevik, the project includes 38 apartments ? either two- or three-bedroom units ? as well as a variety of meeting places for impromptu interaction.

all images by edmund sumner
 
 
set on a rectangular plot, the project ? named ?mi querido tulum? ? comprises two four-storey blocks that run across the plot from east to west. a third three-story building encloses the eastern edge of the site. finally, a single storey block houses the site?s services, while ensuring that sunlight is able to enter into the heart of the project ? an expansive patio with a swimming pool and areas for relaxation.
 
 
?it is important to point out that at the street level, this wide longitudinal space is completely free for pedestrian traffic, thanks to the addition of two bridges that join the long blocks and at the same time make circulations more efficient by eliminating flights of stairs at the access level,? explains reyes ri?os + larrai?n arquitectos, who sought to preserve and relocate as much of the existing flora as possible.

 
 
the architects also wanted to construct a building that referenced the region?s vernacular architecture. consequently, the palette of materials used is minimal. for the walls and exterior façade, cement stucc...