In Costa Rica’s Santa Teresa, Solai House creates a striking conversation between built form and the surrounding landscape.
A Dialogue Between Opposites
Designed by Studio Saxe, Solai House is centered around two contrasting volumes: one grounded, one elevated. This “dialogue between opposites” shapes the home’s identity, balancing elements that feel anchored with those that seem to float. A central open-air space links the two structures, guiding movement through the property while framing sweeping views of the jungle and ocean.
Light, Airflow, and Connection to the Landscape
The elevated pavilion features a brise-soleil system made of wooden slats that filters sunlight, regulates airflow, and heightens the sensation of the building floating above the ground. Slim glass panels maintain comfort while ensuring uninterrupted engagement with nature. The layout reveals vistas gradually, creating a layered experience as residents move through the space.
Interiors Designed in Harmony With Architecture
Interiors and architecture were developed together for a cohesive feel. Natural materials such as reforested local teak, earthy tones, and organic textures reinforce the home’s connection to its surroundings. An open staircase enclosed in a vertical garden and an infinity pool further integrate the living spaces with the environment, resulting in a residence that’s both technically precise and poetically expressive.
