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Silenced on the hilltops of the town of Nosara in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, Charred Timber House absorbs high-level views of the Pacific and a dense green landscape. Designed by Studio Saxe, the 515-square-foot family home has charcoal teak wood exterior and black-framed windows. Two extended horizontal roof planes provide protection against the natural elements, while also promoting connection with nature by forming wide and welcoming terraces. The exterior is inspired by the interior, which is decorated with natural wood and dark, matte materials. Living spaces are open plan and airy, with full focus placed on the special views that are drawn in through floor to ceiling walls made of glass.
The height of the modern property passes just below the canopy of surrounding trees, effectively mixing the house into the natural environment. A wide driveway leads up to the house through the density of mature trees, then finding full shade under a stylish second-floor overhang.
A glass pillar rises through the center of the structure, framed in a clear white image. A double-height expanse of glass reveals the rise of a modern staircase inside. Large terraces surround the edges of both floors, extending the usable living space outside into the fresh air.
The modern exterior is clad in charred teak wood, which contrasts sharply with the light natural wood overhang of the roof and upper terrace. Black frames trim entire walls of windows on each floor of the home, causing neat squares of reflection.
A swimming pool terrace is laid out on the side of the property, where the cool blue water ripples out towards the view of the Pacific Ocean. Tall palm trees provide a spotted shade around it.
Plant beds carve into the hillside that rises around the house. A small rustic rock wall borders the base of the slope, leading the way towards stone steps that aid the ascent through the grounds.
The construction of this home was driven by the weight-bearing capabilities of the soil and the seismic conditions of Costa Rica. In response, a lightweight steel structure was pre-cut to be assembled quickly on site. Local tequila has been sustainably sourced and treated by the ancient technique of carburizing and finishing with natural oils.
Divided wide open to the dramatic ocean and mountain panorama, the interior is an intense space. Colorful accent furniture competes for attention in the living room. Multicolored scattered cushions add to the upbeat palette. A modern rocking chair counteracts the brightness with a natural wooden frame and neutral upholstery.
The open plan living room layout goes back to a casual dining room layout and an open concept kitchen. An oversized rotan hanging light shadow descends onto the dining table, creating a relaxed tropical aesthetic.
Three kitchen stools pull up to a kitchen island with a wooden building. Black countertops add visual weight to the lightweight kitchen design.
The unique staircase achieves a dramatic effect in the home entrance. A wide column of windows frames views of the ocean and sky.
Not only does the high staircase volume add an interesting juxtaposition to the architecture, but it helps air circulation to all parts of the apartment. The construction’s bioclimatic design process considered wind patterns, sun exposure, temperature, and more so that active energy initiatives could be avoided. In this home, the power of the sun is harnessed to heat water with minimal energy consumption, and water is recycled by filters using state-of-the-art treatment plant systems.
Upstairs, bedroom decorations are simple and serene with natural wood furniture, wooden lath wall and ceiling featuring panels, and clear white bed linen. A rustic wooden end of a bed bench merges with the unfinished wooden bed design. Modern white liter units line the sides for storage. Glass table lamps reflect the daylight of huge bedroom windows.
At the foot of the rustic wooden platform bed, a simple black bedroom rug puts a soft texture on the wooden bedroom floor.
On the large bedroom terrace, a small outdoor sofa is positioned to view the tranquil panorama. The simple seat makes it an irresistible place to start the day with a fresh cup of hot coffee, or end it with a cold glass of wine.
Double-sided floor-to-ceiling windows allow the abundant mountain views to dominate the interior of the minimalist bedroom as well, which negates the need for uncomfortable bedroom wall decor and recreational items.
Exterior lighting makes a warm glow along the edges of the main terrace, washing a golden light on the coarse gray concrete floor. Recessed LEDs glow at the base of the overhanging first-floor terrace, adding evening lighting to an outdoor seating right next to the living room.
First floor plan, illustrating the main apartment with open plan living room, kitchen. and dining room.
Second floor plan, showing master bedroom and three additional double bedrooms.
Front elevation with main entrance.
A section drawing, showing an arrangement of a private bedroom neighborhood above the social housing, and the staircase that aids air circulation between volumes.
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