Makai Villas

“Treetop Jungle Villas Frame Ocean Views in Costa Rican Beach Town.”

| Overview

Commissioned by Studio Saxe, Makai Villas emerges as a trio of architecturally distinct villas in Nosara. Poised elegantly on a mountain ridge, these villas offer convenient access to both the beach and the town, complemented by breathtaking ocean vistas. The design’s hallmark lies in its distinctive roof pavilions, which promise not only privacy but effortless integration with the surrounding natural landscape.

| Concept

Each villa is strategically positioned to capture breathtaking oceanic views, ensuring privacy while fostering a harmonious dialogue with the lush jungle surroundings. The design’s striking geometric rooflines have been meticulously crafted to accommodate the existing trees, thereby enhancing and respecting the natural setting.

| Design

The steep terrain led us to a design that uses the homes’ structure to stabilize the hillside, allowing for vertical construction. This arrangement gives every room a view of the ocean. Below, pools provide communal spaces closely linked to the natural landscape. The main living area, elevated above the rest, is a pavilion set among the treetops, offering an immersive jungle experience.

| Sustainability

The villas’ design optimizes solar exposure and natural ventilation, underlining a commitment to eco-friendly practices. The thoughtfully designed roofs serve a dual purpose: framing stunning views and positioning the villas for optimal solar energy generation. This sustainable approach not only respects the environment but also enhances the overall living experience, aligning with the client’s vision of harmony with nature.

| Construction

The construction approach adapts to the steep terrain with a sturdier base for the bedrooms and pools, and a lighter structure for the living room above. Large windows on the pavilion-style upper floor offer expansive views and a connection to the outdoors. This upper structure, resting on a concrete base and constructed with a prefabricated steel frame, is complemented by interiors of sustainable teak wood and other lightweight materials, ensuring both elegance and environmental consciousness. This approach not only respects but also enhances the natural landscape, aligning with the overarching theme of harmonious integration.

Reflecting on the journey, the client shares, “In 2013, we arrived in Nosara—a family of four, with a newborn and a three-year-old—fueled by a dream of a fresh start. The enchanting tale of Benjamin’s A Forest for a Moon Dazzler House, crafted for his mom, captured our hearts during those uncertain beginnings. After securing land in Nosara, we reached out to Studio Saxe to tell our story, marking the beginning of our shared journey. Our vision expanded to create Nalu, a sanctuary for yoga and martial arts, embracing our home, two rentals, and a studio.

Years later, upon discovering a new piece of land with breathtaking ocean views atop challenging steep terrain just steps away from Guiones Beach, we found ourselves marveling at its hidden beauty. We instantly thought of Studio Saxe, knowing their expertise in problem-solving in challenging terrains and crafting beautifully designed homes.

Makai Villas stands as a truly one-of-a-kind collection of homes – a unicorn, as aptly described – with unparalleled ocean views and just a stroll away from the beach. These remarkable residences are not merely dwellings; they are thoughtfully designed rentals, mirroring the success we’ve achieved with Nalu. While Makai is an extension of Nalu, it offers an elevated level of luxury and mesmerizing views.” – the client.