Ansui House Nosara by modus operandi aligns with its curvilinear site in Costa Rica
Ansui House Nosara, designed by Modus Operandi, is nestled in the tropical dry forest on Costa Rica‘s North Pacific coast, integrating nature and architecture. The design embraces the unique climatic challenges of the region, balancing between the dry and dusty season and the humid and rainy season with a two-month transitional period.
The curvilinear site, facing the 180-degree ocean views, dictated a respectful approach to the structure’s placement, ensuring it blends into the landscape. Tropical design principles such as natural ventilation and illumination shaped Ansui House, particularly in its ground floor suites, which act as independent villas, each with green areas for privacy and natural cooling.
On the second level, light colors and textures create a sense of openness and connection to the vast sea and sky. The space encourages a focus on the surrounding environment, from monkeys in the trees to hawks in the sky. Angled wooden slats offer privacy while inviting wind flow, creating an interactive experience with the natural world.
The project by Modus Operandi features harmonious proportions using the Golden Ratio, aiming to provide a sense of internal alignment and a seamless connection to the natural surroundings. A central tropical Zen garden, anchored by a Ylang Ylang tree, creates a calming pathway from public spaces to private quarters.
Materials such as handmade clay tiles, travertine walkways, and native bamboo overhead evoke a connection to the earth and beach. The double-height staircase promotes vertical and horizontal ventilation, uniting two mini forests and directing breezes through the property.
project info:
name: Ansui House Nosara
architect: Modus Operandi | @modusoperandicr
lead architects: M.Arch Fabian VillaMichel & M.Arch Federico Rodríguez
location: Nosara, Costa Rica
photography: Sergio Pucci – Photography in Costa Rica | @works_of_arch_costarica
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