Architectural firm Studio Saxe reimagined a Costa Rican ocean-view beach house centered around horizontal pergolas that seamlessly blend the indoor and outdoor spaces.
After their home was affected by a fire, a family embarked on a life-changing journey, choosing the vibrant landscapes of Costa Rica for a fresh start. In their pursuit of a connection with nature and a dynamic, active lifestyle, they sought the expertise of architects Studio Saxe to reimagine their living space where the boundaries between indoor and outdoor are seamlessly blended.
Inspired by the natural beauty of Costa Rica, Studio Saxe envisioned a design where the architecture itself becomes a bridge between the verdant outdoors and the intimate indoors. Their approach centered on a series of elegant pergolas, crafted not only to unify the garden with the living spaces but to extend the outdoor experience, inviting the gentle caress of coastal breezes and the symphony of mountain and ocean vistas into the heart of the home.
The studio envisioned a series of structured rib elements designed to expand or contract, responding to the presence of trees and the nuances of the topography. This adaptability allows the architectural program to harmonize with its location seamlessly. In this spirit, trees and vegetation were integrated throughout, crafting intentional gaps in the roofline to accommodate and celebrate the existing natural elements.
This home embodies sustainable living, generating its energy from the sun while shielding itself from its heat with expansive pergolas and overhangs. These architectural elements, along with strategically placed windows, foster natural ventilation, drawing in cool air from both the ocean and the mountains. Water recycling systems nurture the surrounding landscape, allowing it to thrive and, in turn, cool the home’s exterior walls. This symbiotic relationship with the environment ensures the home is not only a haven for its inhabitants but a nurturing presence in the natural world.
The construction process was a study in efficiency and sensitivity to the natural landscape. Structural metal ribs, prefabricated off-site, were brought in and assembled with precision, ensuring minimal disruption to the land. This method allowed for flexibility, letting the architecture fluidly adapt to its environment by navigating around existing trees and topographical challenges. The use of local materials alongside these prefabricated elements exemplifies our commitment to light-touch construction, binding innovation with traditional processes.
This home, born from a desire for renewal, now shines as a symbol of resilience and harmony, offering a sanctuary where family life flourishes amidst the nurturing embrace of nature.
www.studiosaxe.com | IG: @studiosaxe
Photography by Andres Garcia Lachner
