CASA TORTUGA
LOCATION: PUERTO VALLARTA
TYPE: RESIDENTIAL
YEAR: 2026
Casa Tortuga is the transformation of a family home in Puerto Vallarta, designed for a young couple with two little girls.
The challenge: to renovate with the least possible architectural footprint — optimizing the budget without compromising quality of life or character.
IN PROGRESS
The design strategy focused on precise interventions: new windows that redefined the facade and increased natural light, and a thoughtful reorganization of interior spaces to fit the rhythm of a growing family
The concept begins with a clear premise: don't overbuild. Rather than demolishing or expanding, the project worked within the home's existing geometry — introducing strategic changes that generate a visual impact far greater than their actual scale.
The bathrooms at Casa Tortuga were designed around a clear logic: long-term functionality for an active family. Each space resolves three priorities at once — generous storage, easy maintenance, and a cohesive atmosphere that feels deliberate, not improvised.
The use of tile as the primary material was not only an aesthetic decision: it is a durable, waterproof surface that requires minimal upkeep — ideal for Puerto Vallarta's humid climate and the daily rhythm of a family with young children. Finishes and materials were coordinated across all bathrooms — guest bath, powder room, master bathroom, and the girls' bathroom — to create a unified visual language throughout the home.
Lighting was treated as an integral part of the design: warm and directional where precision matters, and diffuse where atmosphere takes priority. Storage was integrated into the architecture itself — no bulky furniture competing for space — keeping every bathroom organized and functional from day one.
Tucked between filtered light, warm timber, and a quiet garden courtyard, the Casa Tortuga studio is conceived as a place for thoughtful work and slow creativity. More than a workspace, it functions as a retreat for reflection, where architecture, design, and craftsmanship converge in a calm and tactile environment.
The palette draws from the local context of the Pacific coast: rich tropical hardwoods, hand-applied mineral plaster, natural textiles, and stone surfaces that age gracefully over time. Soft daylight moves across textured walls and warm wood grain throughout the day, transforming the office into a living study of light and materiality. The result is a space that feels both grounded and timeless, rooted in place yet intentionally quiet.
Designed to support daily routines with clarity and ease, the walk-in closet balances generous storage with carefully considered organization. Full-height cabinetry provides dedicated space for clothing, while integrated compartments accommodate handbags, backpacks, luggage, and seasonal items. Open shelving with concealed lighting highlights frequently used accessories, creating intuitive access without visual clutter.
The cabinetry incorporates handwoven bejuco panels, a traditional natural material selected not only for its warmth and texture but also for its practical performance. The breathable weave promotes natural air circulation within wardrobes, helping garments remain fresh in tropical climates by reducing trapped humidity and allowing textiles to breathe.
At the center, a large storage island offers ample drawer space for smaller personal items, jewelry, and wardrobe essentials, while serving as a practical surface for packing, organizing, and outfit preparation. A built-in window seat introduces a comfortable area for dressing, planning the day, or simply enjoying natural light. Every element is designed to maximize functionality while maintaining the warm, refined atmosphere that defines Casa Tortuga’s approach to living.
A stunning mural, crafted by the talented local artist Luis Rios, known as "Rvrs" on Instagram, unveils a vibrant coastal landscape. This artwork is thoughtfully designed to incorporate the girls' personal color palettes, allowing them to see their own identities reflected in the space. With a harmonious blend of hues and intricate details, the mural creates an inviting atmosphere that inspires creativity and encourages the girls to dream without limits.
