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Travellers Attitude · International Style Society

NABOA Tulum: A Quiet Retreat in the Mexican Jungle

In Tulum, where tropical vegetation is an integral part of the landscape, the new NABOA Hotel offers a distinctive take on Mexican hospitality. Designed by Mexican architecture practice Jaque Studio, the boutique hotel occupies a 2,500-square-metre site and is organised around a swimming pool and lush tropical garden, which form the central axis of the entire project.

The architecture is based on clean geometric forms that enter into dialogue with Tulum’s wild and unpredictable vegetation. The volumes are arranged to create an introspective environment, offering privacy and a natural microclimate, while the spaces gradually open towards the pool and surrounding landscape. The reception is conceived as a linear pavilion with a concrete and chukum base, a traditional natural finish from the region, topped by a lightweight wooden roof that appears to float among the trees.

NABOA features just ten rooms, divided into two main categories. The ground-floor Tropical Suites follow a horizontal layout, with private terraces and open-air bathrooms that allow the jungle to become part of the everyday experience. The Nest Suites occupy the upper floors and feature double-height social spaces, two bedrooms and full bathrooms, creating larger, light-filled interiors suited to Tulum’s warm climate.

The material palette remains closely connected to the natural character of the region. Wood, limestone, travertine and chukum create a calm, earthy aesthetic, while passive-design principles support natural ventilation and strengthen the relationship between the interiors and their surroundings. The result references the region’s vernacular architecture through a contemporary and highly refined design language.

At the heart of the hotel is LU_LO, NABOA’s restaurant, a double-height space with an open kitchen and a large elevated terrace. Led by chef Carlos Bordonave, the menu combines international influences with authentic Mexican techniques, while cocktails, mezcal and tropical flavours complete the experience. The hotel also offers wellness facilities including massages, yoga, barre classes and sound journeys.

NABOA ultimately feels like a small, secluded world within the Tulum jungle. Architecture, water, vegetation and natural materials are arranged around a slower rhythm of hospitality, allowing the landscape to take centre stage and creating a sense of retreat only a short distance from the beach.

Photos Courtesy of César Bejar/Jacque Studio