A thrilling jumble of influences, found objects, new design and local culture, the Basico is a defiantly modern Mexican hotel in the newly bustling Caribbean coast town of Playa del Carmen. White-sand beaches are steps away, but the real story is the openness of the hotel, from its street-market-style reception area and bar to its floor-to-ceiling bedroom windows. Basico’s 15 guestrooms are eccentrically furnished with local references including spare tires, plants, and rich textures, featuring recycled materials, resins, exposed plumbing pipes, and even latex.

Beds are elevated and contain a variety of pleasant surprises underneath, while a white Polaroid camera sits above the bed to capture magic moments. Plasma-screen televisions show a constant video feed of the beach. Upstairs, the top floor contains the Azotea Bar and pool area. Two converted petroleum tanks serve as above-ground pools with views of the Caribbean; a bar, DJs and film projections fill the evenings. It all evokes a glamorous, style-savvy and young Mexico, one that defies conventional wisdom and offers a glimpse of the future.

www.hotelbasico.com