V Taller's Babel Tower Preserves Jungle by Building Up in Tulum

In Tulum, Mexico, the architectural firm V Taller has finalized Babel, a vertical sanctuary designed to maintain the integrity of the surrounding jungle by concentrating density. Situated at the urban fringe, this development addresses the challenges posed by rapid tourist growth, which often results in deforestation. Babel encompasses over 6,000 square meters of constructed space while restoring nearly 40% of the area to its native ecosystem. The design features an eye-shaped layout with two curves framing a central courtyard that regulates the microclimate. At its core stands a tower, which includes a modernized hammam and a stargazing platform. The exterior showcases repetitive arches and wooden shutters for light and privacy control, utilizing Chukum, Tzalam, and Machiche materials. Cross-ventilation and deep shading are employed to minimize cooling needs, reflecting a trend in Mexican hospitality that merges traditional methods with contemporary density, akin to the Ra Laiva Hotel, Hotel Sevilla, and Lamartine Hotel.