studio saxe perches sustainable villas among lush treetop jungle of costa rica

Treetop Jungle Villas by Studio Saxe in Costa Rica

Treetop Jungle Villas by Studio Saxe, also known as Makai Villas, consist of three unique villas nestled in the scenic landscape of Nosara, Costa Rica. Perched atop a mountain ridge, these villas offer convenient access to the beach and town while framing sweeping ocean views. The design is characterized by its roof pavilions, which provide privacy while seamlessly blending with the natural surroundings. Each villa is strategically placed to capture picturesque ocean vistas while maintaining a sense of seclusion within the lush jungle environment. The geometric rooflines are carefully crafted to harmonize with the existing trees, preserving and enhancing the surrounding natural beauty.

all images by Andres García Lachner

Sustainable Serenity among the lush terrain

Sustainability is a key focus in the design of the Makai villas, prioritizing solar exposure and natural ventilation. The geometric roofs not only frame panoramic views but also optimize solar energy capture, reflecting a commitment to eco-conscious practices aligned with the client’s environmental values. Reflecting on their journey, the client shares how, in 2013, they arrived in Nosara as a family of four, driven by the dream of a fresh start. Inspired by Benjamin’s A Forest for a Moon Dazzler House, they partnered with Studio Saxe to realize their dream, evolving it into Nalu, a sanctuary encompassing their home, rentals, and studio. Years later, fascinated by a new piece of land overlooking Guiones Beach, they collaborated once more with Studio Saxe to create Makai Villas, continuing their story of success. ‘While Makai is an extension of Nalu, it offers an elevated level of luxury and mesmerizing views,’ shares the client.

each villa offers a private sanctuary with breathtaking ocean views.

Embracing the Treetops in Design

To address the steep terrain, the architects proposed a structure for the homes that stabilize the hillside, enabling vertical construction. This layout ensures that every room benefits from an ocean view. Below, communal pools are integrated into the landscape, fostering a deep connection with nature. Elevated above the ground, the main living area functions as a pavilion nestled among the treetops, offering residents an immersive jungle experience. In terms of construction, the challenging terrain is navigated by employing a robust foundation for the bedrooms and pools, while the living areas above are built with a lighter structure. Expansive windows on the upper floor create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, allowing residents to immerse themselves in the surrounding beauty. Utilizing a combination of concrete bases and prefabricated steel frames, the upper structures are elegantly appointed with sustainable teak wood and lightweight materials, further emphasizing the commitment to both aesthetic and environmental integrity. 

the homes’ design incorporates structures that stabilize the hillside, enabling vertical construction

communal pools blend into the landscape, enhancing the connection with nature

the upper structures are adorned with sustainable teak wood and lightweight materials

the main living area doubles as a pavilion nestled within the treetops

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name: Makai Villas

architecture: Studio Saxe
design director: Benjamin G. Saxe
structural engineer: Sotela Alfaro LTDA
electromechanical engineer: DYNAMO
landscape design: Greengo Gardens

location: Nosara, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
date of completion: November 2023
client: Nalu Nosara
area: 1400 sqm approx.

photography: Andres García Lachner