When luxury is intermingled with ancient traditions of a country rich in both history and culture like Costa Rica, it’s normal for innovative and striking projects to appear like that of the Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort.
Wood plays a leading role in this hotel complex, which was designed by Zurcher Architects. After various discoveries of Pre-Colombian pieces, they soon realised that they had to carry out a modernist project of both the highest standard and luxury, which combines the natural, the traditional and the indigenous. An effect that is achieved not only with the design of spaces that simulate native huts in some cases, but also with the use of local materials, taken from the jungle.
Solid wood, originating from Guanacaste, which is situated in the north east of Costa Rica, where the resort is located, can be found in multiple spaces. This solid wood covers both the floors and the ceilings, as well as the furniture, and is made following local customs from the local community. In the Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, it’s not surprising to see ceilings in round shaped wood, or porches in concentric circles on terraces with views of the bay, or dynamically designed wooden facing and walls. Cutting edge interior design curved lines that blend into the finishes on the ceilings, the walls and on the façade as well, which is made from local bamboo.
Devoted to their position of highlighting just what nature has to offer, Zurcher Architects, through their design pay homage to the flora and fauna. Going around the resort, one can find luxurious stairs made from shells and covered with wood, as well as furniture accessories and lighting inspired by nests, plant buds, thorns, seeds and shells.
An architectural gem of combinations that all lovers and followers of interior design would dearly love to see.
