Home Design

Coastal construction: key decisions for the envelope Coastal building envelope design isn’t just “ordinary construction with a nice view.” In coastal environments, wind-driven rain, salt and constant humidity mean you must design the building envelope as a system, not merely a finish. The envelope (façade + windows and doors + seals + anchors + waterproofing […]

Looking for a peaceful, picturesque spot to build your dream home in Mexico? Akumal might be the Riviera Maya’s best-kept secret. 1. Beachfront charm: Akumal — meaning “place of turtles” — offers pristine bays, protected reefs, and sandy beaches perfect for snorkeling. 2. Small-town feel: Unlike busier Playa del Carmen or trendy Tulum, Akumal offers

Remodeling a villa in Playa del Carmen, Akumal, or Puerto Aventuras? Costs vary by project, but here’s what you should expect — and how to plan smart. 1. Basic upgrades ($25K–$50K USD): Think paint, tile replacement, lighting, and fixtures. Best for small condos or partial makeovers. 2. Mid-range renovations ($50K–$100K USD): Includes kitchens, bathrooms, flooring,

Eco-conscious buyers are flocking to Tulum for its natural beauty and green living appeal. Here’s how to design and build a sustainable home that blends into the jungle — and respects it. 1. Passive cooling: Use high ceilings, cross ventilation, and shaded terraces to reduce air conditioning needs. 2. Solar energy: Rooftop solar panels with

In Mexico’s booming coastal construction scene, not all builders are created equal. Choosing a licensed, insured professional isn’t just a formality — it’s your protection. 1. Legal compliance: Licensed builders operate with proper permits, municipal registrations, and insurance. This protects your investment from legal headaches. 2. Safety standards: Professional crews follow safety codes — critical

Building your dream home in Mexico — from thousands of miles away — might sound impossible. But with PlayaBuilder, remote construction becomes stress-free and transparent for U.S. and Canadian clients. 1. English-speaking project managers: You’ll have a dedicated bilingual contact who updates you weekly — no language barriers, no confusion. 2. Weekly updates: Receive progress

Salt air, sun, humidity — building in Playa del Carmen, Akumal, or Tulum means facing tough coastal conditions. Use the wrong materials and you’ll be replacing them in a year. Use the right ones, and your home will last decades. 1. Concrete block walls: Reinforced concrete blocks are strong, fireproof, and ideal for coastal humidity.

Building in Playa del Carmen or Tulum? Your construction contract is your safety net — but only if you understand it. Here’s what expats from the U.S. and Canada should look for. 1. Bilingual documentation: Insist on contracts in both English and Spanish. Don’t rely on Google Translate — hire a bilingual attorney to review.

Tulum is trending — and for good reason. With its bohemian vibe, eco-luxe architecture, and exploding vacation rental market, it’s a magnet for U.S. buyers. But before you start building, here’s what you need to know. 1. Fideicomiso required: Americans can’t directly own land in the restricted coastal zone. You’ll need a Mexican bank trust

Interested in investing in a vacation rental in Playa del Carmen? With strong tourism, rising demand, and year-round rental potential, it’s one of the smartest moves Canadians and Americans can make. 1. Location = bookings: Beach access, walkability to 5th Avenue, and proximity to nightlife or quiet zones all impact rental desirability. Playacar and Centro