HOUSE SOLOMIA
Estudio D3b
ARCHITECTS
Estudio D3b
LEAD ARCHITECT
Demian Bournissen
TECHNICAL TEAM
Shiary Martinez, Jose Pablo Jimenez
GENERAL CONSTRUCTION
Gianfranco Michelini
INTERIOR DESIGN
Heidi Hansen
PHOTOGRAPHS
Alvaro Fonseca
AREA
400 m²
YEAR
2025
LOCATION
Malpaís, Costa Rica
CATEGORY
Houses
English description provided by the architects.
House Solomia was created surrounded by tropical vegetation and overlooking the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. With a contemporary interpretation of tropical architecture, it was designed by Estudio D3B Arquitectura and built by GFM.
The house is located on an elevated site characterized by dense vegetation and steep slopes. The project sensitively responds to the natural conditions of the location and makes the most of the panoramic view towards the Pacific Ocean.
These two elements, along with the orientation towards the sunset, form the basis of the site occupation strategy.
With a rational and straightforward program, the design presents an "L"-shaped floor plan with straight lines that traverse the land and create a park within.
Its simple volume combines comfort and functionality, keeping each space in constant connection with the landscape so that nature takes center stage.
The different areas are organized independently but are connected by structural elements that maintain volumetric continuity and suggest visual fluidity.
Two arms at different levels embrace the ocean view, where the spaces are located with wide openings, promoting cross-ventilation and blurring the boundaries between the interior and exterior.
The roof planes, although arranged autonomously, reinforce the geometry of the whole and emphasize the "L" shape that structures the residence.
In its 400 m² distributed over two floors, the architectural program conceives the residence as the home of the owning family while incorporating the necessary flexibility to adapt to its use as tourist accommodation.
Upon entering the main body of the house, the service areas are situated in the sector opposite the views, while the social spaces integrate into the tropical landscape through terraces, gardens, and a pool.
The connection between the different environments occurs through fluid transitions that strengthen their relationship while maintaining their intimacy and unique character, in a balance between openness and privacy.
A double-height garden accommodates the staircase that connects the two levels, creating a pathway that allows one to appreciate the entire space and discover the views from different angles.
The choice of materials such as wood, natural stones, and beige-toned finishes that evoke sand reinforces the integration with the surroundings and adds a rustic elegance. On the exterior, natural teak wood establishes a warm contrast with the lighter tones used indoors.
With a spacious, bright, and warm atmosphere, House Solomia offers a living experience that transcends functionality, proposing a contemporary refuge in close harmony with nature.
