Nestled deep within the enchanting Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica, Studio Saxe‘s latest creation, Sinfonía Verde, presents a tranquil sanctuary that harmonizes with the lush beauty of the rainforest. This remarkable residence is ingeniously situated in a clearing formed by a fallen tree, allowing sunlight to stream through the dense forest canopy for the first time. This unique setting provides an extraordinary opportunity for its inhabitants, two dedicated researchers, to embrace an off-grid lifestyle amidst the pristine wilderness that surrounds them.
The design of Sinfonía Verde is a tribute to the intricate layers of the rainforest. While the dense, shadowy environment can often feel overwhelming, the occasional openings in the canopy reveal breathtaking views of towering trees and the expansive sky above. This striking contrast in space is mirrored in the home’s architecture, featuring a circular layout with an oculus at its heart. The outer edges of the structure engage harmoniously with the forest, while the central core serves as a serene retreat from the vibrant wildness outside.
Elevated on stilts, the home immerses its residents in the natural rhythms of their environment. Studio Saxe, a locally-based architectural practice, has designed Sinfonía Verde to highlight the shifting perspectives of the surrounding landscape. Although the home is constructed on a single level, the steep terrain that envelops it introduces varied elevations, creating a dynamic experience for those who dwell within.
One side of the residence aligns seamlessly with the forest floor, while the opposite side rises above the ground, granting residents the exhilarating sensation of walking among the treetops. A perimeter walkway invites visitors to embark on a journey from the roots of the forest to the vibrant canopy, where they can encounter the vivid scarlet macaws and other wildlife that call this breathtaking ecosystem home.
The dwelling features two cozy bedrooms, a communal living area seamlessly integrated with a kitchen, and a charming library. Scattered throughout the home are shaded outdoor terraces, perfect for observing the vibrant wildlife that inhabits the surrounding area. At the heart of the property lies a tranquil central courtyard, which cradles a serene garden amidst the lush forest. A grand hyperbolic roof structure envelops the home, providing shelter from the region’s heavy rains and blazing sun. Slatted screens are thoughtfully incorporated, allowing fresh air and the soothing sounds of nature to permeate the interior spaces.
Nestled near Corcovado National Park, a treasure trove of biodiversity that houses approximately 3% of the world’s species, Sinfonía Verde was crafted by Studio Saxe with a strong emphasis on sustainability. The design prioritizes a minimal footprint, carefully avoiding the removal of any vegetation in the natural clearing. Elevated on stilts with slender footings, the structure permits root systems and wildlife to traverse freely beneath, ensuring minimal disruption to the land.
In response to the region’s extreme heat and humidity, the design emphasizes passive ventilation. The raised platform of the house, complemented by louvered openings, encourages natural airflow, significantly reducing the reliance on mechanical cooling systems. A white insulated roof further mitigates heat absorption, helping to maintain a cooler and more comfortable interior environment.
Completely off-grid, this remarkable home generates its own power through a photovoltaic array and a hydroelectric turbine, which also supplies drinking water sourced from a nearby stream. Energy-efficient lighting and responsibly sourced materials, including teak and cork, enhance the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The residents actively engage in local conservation efforts, monitoring wildlife, propagating native plant species, and spearheading initiatives for coral reef restoration.
The architects recognized that constructing Sinfonía Verde in a remote location posed distinct challenges for both design and construction. Nestled in an area prone to earthquakes, characterized by heavy rainfall, salty air, and diverse wildlife, the house demanded meticulous planning and construction techniques specifically adapted to the local environment. To tackle these hurdles, Studio Saxe partnered with local contractors who possessed a deep understanding of the region’s unique conditions, ensuring the structure would endure the elements.
Access to the building site was restricted to a narrow footpath, necessitating that all materials be transported across rivers and mountains by truck before being carried by hand to the location. During the dry season, prefabricated steel components were delivered and then assembled on-site, while the intricate roof structure was crafted from a woven grid of pitched beams, showcasing both innovation and resilience in design.
To safeguard the home against the harsh environmental conditions, it was finished with fiber cement boards and a robust membrane. Following the completion of construction, the site was thoughtfully replanted with native vegetation, allowing the residence to seamlessly integrate into its natural surroundings and enhancing the beauty of the landscape.