'shutter' house frames unobstructed natural views of central costa rica

situated within the central pacific part of costa rica, plup! studio has introduced the ‘shutter’ house. the project, which has been designed to serve as ‘binoculars’ that frame and capture the surrounding views, showcases a simple shape with great spatial framework that pays homage to the natural context. 

all images by roberto d’ambrosio

‘shutter is a special project for us because it’s our first project built in an area that we love’ plup! studio shares. here, the relationship between the mountain and the sea is dizzying, dense and forceful. a few kilometers uphill from the coastal road, one can observe breathtaking views.

in order to create a house that offers unique unobstructed views, the functions’ program was placed on the back of the building. the entrance facade is a large blind plane with just a few necessary openings. upon entering the residence, visitors immediately face the view which emerges and embraces them. in addition, the architects avoided creating multiple circulations within the interior, placing the private spaces on the sides, and the main social area between them. 

the project fully responds to the typical conditions of the regional tropical climate, with a simple roof that evacuates rainwater quickly, large eaves, cross ventilation and sufficient natural light. furthermore, there is a second eave that is the main frame, which functions as a canopy at a more immediate height in case of aggressive weather conditions. ‘a tropical country with changing climates and wonderful sceneries: this is specifically what shutter is talking about’ plup! studio says. 

project info:

name: shutter
architecture office: plup! studio

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: myrto katsikopoulou | designboom