Casa Tepui by CO-LAB Design Office

Vacaying in the treetops was what this couple had in mind when they commissioned CO-LAB Design Office to conceive their Tulum holiday house.

Mexico architects CO-LAB Design Office have realised a young Venezuelan couple’s dream of spending long summers in the beach town of Tulum. Casa Tepui is a treehouse with all the comforts of a modern home; three en-suite bedrooms, integrated living spaces, a generous home office and liberal outdoor space. At its core, this is a home that sits so deep in the landscape that the two become almost interchangeable.

Casa Tepui is split across three levels: a secluded ground floor, a suspended first floor and an open rooftop. The ground floor houses three en-suite bedrooms, each with its own private garden and terrace. Climbing up to the first floor, the kitchen, dining and living area merge into one elongated space, flanked by a swimming pool and terrace. Finally, the rooftop comprises an outdoor dining and lounge area, a barbecue and a jacuzzi. Casa Tepui may be built for two, but it is certainly fit for entertaining.

The villa’s name derives from southeast Venezuela, where the Indigenous population refer to the emblematic table-top mountains as “Tepui”, meaning “house of the Gods”. With the first floor of the villa sitting high above the ground, occupants are made to feel as though they too are in the house of the Gods, engulfed by the exotic sounds and sights of Tulum.

The interiors are warm and understated, with bespoke furnishings designed by CO-LAB Design Office.

The tropical topography of the site served as a consistent reference point throughout the design process. Lush green leaves form the backdrop of almost every space, while an organic palette of timber, lime wash and rattan brings balance and clarity. Gentle breezes drift in through sliding doors and windows, drawing the natural scents of the rainforest. Fresh herbs and fruit can be picked from the planters and trees that grow directly underneath the first floor, making way for a self-sufficient, sustainability-focused lifestyle.

CO-LAB Design Office’s practice is grounded in sustainable design philosophies – “we see beauty in the imperfections of handcrafted finishes and locally sourced natural materials, creating sustainable environments in harmony with their surroundings.” “Casa Tepui is designed to breathe naturally in its tropical climate,” CO-LAB founder Joana Gomes says, featuring rainwater collection systems, solar panels, cross ventilation and low-maintenance, durable materials.

Casa Tepui by CO-LAB Design Office is a natural wonder within the natural wonders of Tulum.

A home office on the first level offers easy access to the pool for a quick lunchtime or clock-off dip. The space features the Carl Hansen & Son CH24 Wishbone chair.