Architects: Studio Saxe
Area: 816 m²
Year: 2024
Photographs: Alvaro Fonseca
Architect In Charge: Arthur Micheron
Interior Design: Dania Saragovia
Construction Company: JIMACO Constructores
Electromechanical Engineer: UTSUPRA
Structural Engineer: SOTELA ALFARO, BILDTEK
City: Bagaces
Country: Costa Rica
Rio Perdido West Bungalows hospitality project, designed by Studio Saxe in Bagaces, Costa Rica, has transformed a previously inaccessible canyon into an immersive retreat blending modern comfort with ecological sensitivity. The bungalows rest on slender pilotis above the terrain, preserving natural flows of water and wildlife. Frameless glass walls frame uninterrupted views of the canyon and forest. A carefully placed stone wall defines thresholds between shared and private areas, reflecting the local topography. Prefabrication techniques reduced construction impact and adapted each pavilion to varying elevations. Interior designer Dania Saragovia selected a warm palette, natural materials, and woven textures to create a cohesive interior environment. Extended roof overhangs protect against heavy rains and limit solar heat gain, supporting passive cooling strategies. Expansive terraces and outdoor showers maintain a direct connection to the landscape. Discreet partitions between bedrooms and bathrooms preserve privacy while retaining sight lines. Locally sourced wood, stone, and other materials reinforce the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The design approach results in contemporary tropical architecture that lightly touches the land while honoring Costa Rica’s ecological integrity.
In the ecological town of Bagaces, Costa Rica, near the volcanic range, floating pavilions anchored among dense forests reveal far-reaching canyon vistas.
The Rio Perdido West Bungalows stand on a raised peninsula formed by the convergence of two canyons, placing guests in a landscape where the Rio Blanco’s cooler waters merge with the Rio Perdido’s warmer currents. This previously overlooked terrain, long inaccessible, now offers a setting that closely connects visitors with lush forest and hidden waterways.
Studio Saxe envisioned floating pavilions that would enhance the hotel experience while making minimal impact on the land. Each bungalow stands on slender pilotis, ensuring rainwater and wildlife continue to move freely below. Frameless glass panels provide uninterrupted panoramic views of the forest and canyon. The design was intended to create an environment blending contemporary comfort with regional cultural identity.
A precisely placed stone wall serves as a visual screen, offering privacy while framing the canyon and securing the building within its context. This approach marks the transition between shared and private areas, referencing the terrain and heritage.
Through coordinated space planning, electromechanical design, and lighting strategies, the project achieves a retreat where tropical simplicity aligns with refined amenities. Guests stay connected to the forest surroundings without sacrificing privacy or clarity of views.
Expansive terraces and integrated outdoor showers sustain a direct connection to the landscape. A discreet partition between bedroom and bathroom preserves privacy without blocking sight lines, while a continuous window frames canyon perspectives and draws the outside in.
Dania Saragovia curated the interiors by selecting warm tones, natural materials, and woven textures. These choices complement the architectural vision and result in cohesive, inviting spaces.
Designed for minimal impact, the bungalows hover above ground to preserve natural flows of water and wildlife. Long roof overhangs limit solar heat gain and protect from heavy rainfall, supporting passive cooling and lowering energy demands. Locally sourced wood, stone, and other materials integrate with the environment, reinforcing an ecological commitment.
Though sharing a unified design language, each bungalow adapts to varying site elevations. Prefabrication methods streamlined assembly and minimized disruption to the sensitive ecosystem. The project exemplifies contemporary tropical architecture, merging regional craftsmanship with a philosophy of light intervention.
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Project Location
Address: San Bernardo, 4 km, Provincia de Guanacaste, Bagaces, 50401, Costa Rica
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
