lush, breezy central courtyard anchors caracola surf retreat experience in guatemala

Gris presents boutique surf retreat in Guatemala Beach

Gris introduces Caracola Boutique Hostel, a surf retreat located in Playa El Paredón, Buena Vista Sipacate, Guatemala. Inspired by the architecture of colonial central courtyards, Caracola features an intimate and private space that allows guests to enjoy the sun and sea breeze while being protected from the street. The design incorporates water elements and lush vegetation to reduce ambient temperature and provide a tranquil atmosphere. Ensuring privacy, the courtyard enhances light and ventilation, reflecting the hostel’s commitment to an authentic and sustainable surfing experience. Featuring 36 private pod-style beds, the hostel maximizes guest capacity while maintaining comfort.

all images courtesy of Gris

Caracola Boutique Hostel features Japanese-inspired beds

Drawing inspiration from Japanese pod hotels, the Caracola Boutique Hostel by Gris offers pod-style beds arranged across seven rooms. There are two rooms with six beds each, both equipped with two private bathrooms; four rooms with four beds each, featuring one private bathroom; and a large women-only room with eight beds and two private bathrooms. The Guatemala-based design studio ensures a balance between social interaction and personal privacy, catering to the diverse needs of guests. Open areas encourage collaboration and socialization, while private spaces are available for those seeking solitude. The integration of water and greenery within the courtyard symbolizes purification and renewal and cools the environment.

surf retreat’s serene courtyard

secluded sanctuary at Caracola

colonial architecture influences the design

tranquil water features amidst greenery

sunlit courtyard with natural ventilation

serene paths through lush gardens

Caracola features an intimate and private space that allows guests to enjoy the sun

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enhancing light and ventilation. the courtyard ensures privacy

reflecting the hostel’s commitment to an authentic and sustainable surfing experience

the Caracola Boutique Hostel by Gris offers 36 private pod-style beds

there are two rooms with six beds each

Gris preserves the balance between social interaction and personal privacy,

Caracola’s design encourages guests to connect with nature

the hotel features a large women-only room with eight beds and two private bathrooms

open areas are designated for collaboration and socialization

first level floor plan: lower bunk beds

 

rooftop plan

project info:

name: Caracola Boutique Hostel
architect: Gris | @gris._________/
lead designer: Diego García-Salas
location:Playa El Paredón, Buena Vista Sipacate, Guatemala

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edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom