Pink-toned modern building with wave-like design elements, representing amplitude coliving oaxaca.

Architecturally Translating Sound Waves: Estudio Zero’s Pink Coliving Haven in Puerto Escondido

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Written by Sam Johnson

2026-09-25

Mexican architecture firm Estudio Zero has completed a striking co-living space, Amplitude Coliving, in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. This pink concrete building, spanning 390 square meters, cleverly embodies the dynamics of sound waves in its design, beautifully reflecting the unique characteristics of this innovative communal living space.

Exterior view of Amplitude Coliving, designed by Estudio Zero, in Puerto Escondido.
Estudio Zero designed Amplitude Coliving for Puerto Escondido in Oaxaca, Mexico

Sound Waves Inspiring Architectural Design at Amplitude Coliving Oaxaca

Sitting on a 315.5-square-meter plot in the vibrant neighborhood of La Punta, the development uniquely translates the physical form of sound waves into its arched façade. “You can actually read the waveform in the facade, in the way the arches and columns rise and taper,” Estudio Zero explained, emphasizing a shared vision with their client about energy and community flow.

For more on integrating organic forms into urban spaces, MAD’s Shenzhen Bay Culture Square explores similar architectural innovation.

Coliving building exterior inspired by the shape of a sound wave.
The building’s form was based on a sound wave

Community-Focused Layout

At the heart of the complex lies a central courtyard complete with a pool, shared kitchen, and communal dining space. This area serves as the social hub where residents naturally gather, enhancing the communal experience. “We designed a courtyard that gives people every reason to be in the same place and let the connection happen on its own,” noted the studio.

Central courtyard connecting two distinct residential structures.
A courtyard sits in the centre of the plan, connecting the two residential envelopes

Diverse Architectural Features of Amplitude Coliving Oaxaca

The building features open-air balconies with distinctive scalloped railings. The apartments vary from compact studios to larger units with private gardens, and double-height lofts offering dramatic views. Interiors and exteriors are adorned with a palette of terracotta-pink stucco, concrete, and tropical hardwood, all complementing the coastal landscape and epitomizing coliving architecture.

The structure uses warm, natural materials alongside glass block for light diffusion, and steel spiral staircases that introduce a nautical element. Hourglass-shaped concrete columns further the sound wave concept, adding dynamism and motion to the structural design.

Wave-inspired balustrades overlooking the central courtyard.
The wave-form is echoed in the balustrades above the courtyard

Sustainable and Smart Design

Environmental functionality is integrated into the building with shaded corridors, deep overhangs, and strategic openings that promote airflow. The natural thermal mass of the materials stabilizes internal temperatures, while solar panels with battery storage ensure energy efficiency during tropical storms.

Extensive use of pink-toned concrete throughout the building.
Pink-toned concrete was used throughout

Estudio Zero’s effort to intertwine architecture with the energy of sound waves can be seen in the attention to detail and innovative use of materials. “The tapered, hourglass-shaped concrete columns visually read almost like a waveform,” the studio explained. This project, which embodies the principles of sound wave design, stands alongside other Mexican developments, such as a residential complex by V Taller and a beachfront housing project by Reyes Rios + Larrain. Alex Krotkov, renowned for capturing architectural beauty, photographed the project, highlighting the remarkable achievement of the complex.

Explore another side of Mexican design as Fernando Laposse crafts vibrant corn husk designs, merging tradition with modernity for a unique perspective.

Source: dezeen.com

Frequently asked questions

What inspired the architectural design of Amplitude Coliving?

The design of Amplitude Coliving is inspired by sound waves, as the building translates their physical form into its arched façade. This reflects a shared vision of energy and community flow between Estudio Zero and their client.

What are the unique features of the apartments in Amplitude Coliving?

Apartments in Amplitude Coliving range from compact studios to larger units with private gardens and double-height lofts. They feature open-air balconies with scalloped railings and interiors adorned with terracotta-pink stucco, concrete, and tropical hardwood.

How does Amplitude Coliving incorporate sustainable design?

Amplitude Coliving incorporates sustainable design through shaded corridors, deep overhangs, and strategic openings that promote airflow. The building uses natural thermal mass for temperature stabilization and solar panels with battery storage for energy efficiency.