VOID weaves staggered residential complex into the tropical landscape of costa rica

architecture office VOID has introduced the ‘guarumo’ contemporary residential complex into the costa rican pacific coast, harmoniously combining the distinctive tropical landscape with modern, simple, and discreet architecture. located on a steep hillside with dense vegetation, the dwelling showcases a staggered configuration to offer generous unobstructed views of the impressive surroundings while ensuring minimal disturbance to the local natural topography. 

all images courtesy of leonardo finotti

VOID has proceeded with the tiered volumetry, avoiding large movements of land and expensive retaining walls, to preserve the setting in its natural form. the heart of the ‘guarumo’ house consists of a void, which forces the vegetation to become the protagonist while serving as a social meeting point for both residents and guests. this common area is equipped with various amenities, including an infinity pool, the bar/BBQ area and a viewing terrace that extends over the treetops.

according to VOID, this project is a reflection of the practice’s meticulous research in sustainability, its interest in local and vernacular architecture,and its true understanding of the land. meanwhile, the ‘guarumo’ challenges a common misconception in tropical design that tends to use non-long-lasting materials in the spirit of a more ‘natural’ aesthetic, instead proposing an innovative board-formed poured concrete structure, which may be more difficult to execute, but provides a low maintenance solution that will stand the test of time.

some of the elements that contribute towards generating sustainable architecture are the strategic positioning of the pool as a source of water in the direction of the prevailing winds to reduce temperatures, the use of natural and local materials such as exposed concrete and wood, and the solar protection of the windows through solid eaves. in addition, the use of large openings from floor to ceiling breaks the barrier between the interior and exterior to promote natural ventilation. finally, the incorporation of surrounding vegetation, the collection of rainwater, and treatment of sewage water for irrigation are some of the passive strategies that were also implemented. 

thus, ‘guarumo’ emerges a symbiotic proposal which rather than trying to dominate the natural environment, positions it as a focal point. the dwelling serves as an empty space through which the barriers between the built and the autochthonous are broken, the discretion of the design and the imposition of the panoramic beauty, setting the stage for social interaction and cultural mixing that occur integrally in shared spaces. 

project info:

name: guarumo
architects: VOID
developer: stealth development
location: santa teresa, puntarenas, costa rica
area: 796.55 sqm
photography: leonardo finotti