The design sees houses arranged in an orthogonal grid which outlines patios that embrace and frame the trees, placing the natural elements as central to the atmosphere of the entire site. The single-story houses float slightly above the ground to allow the roots to pass freely beneath, while rooflines remain below the main branches. In this way, the homes occupy the free space left by the forest, so that the dweller can live among the trees. All houses establish a fluid relationship with the outside, both its horizontal and vertical component.
On the interior route, natural light filtered by the branches reaches through interior patios that give both privacy and the exterior in a single gesture. The houses open in all their dimensions to the rear garden, both in width and height, thus making mangoes and Guanacastes part of the interior atmosphere.
Cool shade under the trees, the chirping of birds and the gentle caress of the breeze. It is natural; there is no more, and everything is there. Discover what exists to enjoy it as it is. Be part of the immediate environment, to enhance and feel the natural. There's no more. Everything is there.
The interior height of the main spaces: living room-kitchen, master bedroom and office emphasises the sense of openness.
Project details
Architects: Joan Puigcorbé, PAAS / María K Hawkins, MKBSTUDIO
Collaborator: Architect Silvia Matamoros
Developer and builder: CasaPremier
Dates: Design in 2015, construction in 2016
Location: Santa Ana. San José. Costa Rica
Build floor area: 4.74 square metres
Materialisation
Metallic and concrete structure
Cladding walls: stained pine
Swimming pool: stoneware
General lighting: LED 5050
Roof waterproofing: asphaltic cover: Pluvitec 3,000kg.