The Caribbean coast, in the Tulum area of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, is set to host ''Awakening'', an eco-tourism complex within a gross floor area of 11,300 square metres. The project, designed by the Mexican firm Arquitectura en Movimiento Workshop (ARQMOV) for the Mayan natural area known as Sian Ka’an, includes twelve tents in the form of cocoons, half of them facing the seaside and the other half, the lagoon. 

This will give the visitors the opportunity to undertake an introspective journey. ''As the name suggests, (it’s) an awakening to a new, regenerated self, whereby the experience of lodging becomes integrated into the natural environment,'' as it states the architectural description of the project.

The amenities program -details the document- is complemented by several elements which guide the interpretation of the project. The form of the reception area evokes a hummingbird nest, the restaurant will take the form of a sea snail, while the structure that contains the multiple-use room emulates a tortoise shell, and the pool bears the form and texture of an open bird nest.

''The complex promotes healthy eating and local gastronomy as well as activities that will strengthen the mind, body and spirit. It encourages a connection with nature, the community, and with the visitors themselves,'' said ARQMOV.

According to the architects Fabio Correa and Eduardo Micha, founders of Arquitectura en Movimiento Workshop, the design concept emulates the forms of natural shelters: the nest, the burrow, the cave, the shell, the cocoon; geometry as the basis for the analysis and creation of the universe, nature and reason.

''The organic profile of these shelters became a reference to develop the architectural elements that form this complex. The area of contact with the site is minimal, so as to reduce the impact on the site and to protect its natural vegetation, most of which is endangered.''

The twelve tents will function as living spaces, organised around the living and sleeping areas (plus facilities). The geometry of this object is realized by a series of bamboo curves revolving around a central axis in the manner of a spinning top. At the main level, that is, three metres above ground, its diameter is five meters, while the base at ground level has a diameter of one meter.

Once built, the cocoon tents may be installed anywhere, and if required, they might be transferred to another place without leaving an imprint on the land. On the upper level and above the mezzanine, rainwater will be collected and stored for household consumption, this will reduce the demand for drinking water.

Power for the complex will be supplied by wind turbines, wastewater treatment plants and solar panels. Waste management also envisages crops growing on the land and protection of mangrove swamps. 

It is worth mentioning that this project was one of the finalists in the World Architecture Festival 2016, under the category Leisure-Led Developmens Future Projects.

All images © ARQMOV & Carlos Veron

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