Costa Rican House, Villa Areopagus Atenas, Building, Architect, Property, Home, Info

Villa Areopagus : Costa Rican Residence

Residential Project in Central America design by PARAVANT ARCHITECTS

22 Mar 2014 + 20 Apr 2012

Villa Areopagus Costa Rica

Design: PARAVANT ARCHITECTS with SAAR Arquitectura

AREOPAGUS Residence, Costa Rica

House in Atenas

Villa Areopagus planned as a retirement residence for a client from Hollywood, California, the design focused on creating a home that is harmoniously integrated into the landscape of the surrounding Costa Rican mountains. This was largely done by allowing for a strong connection between the indoor and outdoor living to take full advantage of the moderate climate and spectacular views the site offers. This approach is well suited for the lifestyle of the client which was an important factor for them to having a custom designed and built home.

photos : Julian Trejos

The building has two very different façades. The street facing facade is a massive concrete wall providing privacy for the owners. Openings in the solid wall‐plane, frame controlled views of the surrounding mountains. These and other strategically placed openings provide for natural cooling and cross ventilation.

The private south facing elevation, with large transparent glazing and deep roof overhangs completely opens up this side of the house to stunning views across the valley towards San Jose. The living room has a 16m long fully retractable corner glass sliding wall allowing for true indoor‐outdoor living. The adjacent pool with its vanishing edge enhances the already dramatic experience of this space. Additionally, the pool acts as a cooling pond reducing air temperature in the house.

photos : Julian Trejos

Through thoughtful design, sensitive consideration of the orientation of walls and openings, an awareness of existing site conditions and the use of passive strategies the building does not require a mechanical air conditioning system, drastically reducing the energy needed to maintain a comfortable living environment compared to buildings of a similar size and setting.

In considering issues of sustainability it was important for the architects to exhaust all passive measures before implementing strategically technical active systems. The active elements used in this house were roof installed solar and photovoltaic systems providing hot water and electricity. Additionally, an onsite micro waste‐water‐treatment plant was provided, as well as rain water collection for yard irrigation.

photos : Julian Trejos