Casa Mexico

In recent years leading international tastemakers have been drawn to the vibrant culture of the Yucatan. In Merida-the region's sixteenth-century capital-they have renovated many of the romantic Spanish colonial town houses into stylish retreats. In the nearby towns of Valladolid and Coba, picturesque houses surrounded by lush vegetation in sun-drenched settings have also been updated while retaining indigenous charm. Annie Kelly takes us on an insider's tour of several stunning properties-from brightly painted town houses and contemporary villas to rustic bungalows- many with a distinctive bohemian feeling. These sophisticated residences blend artisanal craftsmanship with antiques and contemporary furnishings. They have been designed by such talents as architect Manolo Mestre, artist Jorge Pardo, L.A. modernist antiques dealers Robert Willson and David Serrano, and Nicolas Malleville of Tulum's famed Coqui Coqui hotel, who has brought the fashion world to the Yucatan due to his