QBO3 arquitectos embeds casa enoki's staggered platforms in tropical forest of costa rica 

Casa Enoki’s geometric volumes follow the sloped terrain

Casa Enoki, designed by QBO3 Arquitectos, is situated on the Papagayo Peninsula in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. The residence emerges from a steeply sloped site within a dry tropical forest, prompting a design approach that minimizes ecological impact while engaging with the surrounding landscape. The architectural response is shaped by the terrain itself. Habitable platforms are staggered along the natural contours of the site, reducing the need for extensive land modification. Existing vegetation is preserved and integrated into the project, contributing to environmental continuity and site-specific adaptation.

A key design strategy is the use of the horizon line as an organizing system. The layout aligns social areas, such as the living room, dining space, kitchen, and terraces, toward panoramic ocean views. In contrast, the private zones, including bedrooms, are positioned with a more inward focus, yet maintain visual and spatial links to the natural setting. This spatial arrangement ensures that the architecture remains oriented to its context rather than dominating it. The entry sequence is designed to unfold gradually. A compressed threshold space opens into a larger volume, with double-height ceilings and cantilevered elements framing views of the Pacific Ocean. Each volume is oriented to capture specific visual connections to the surrounding environment, creating a continuous relationship between structure and landscape.

all images by Depth Lens unless stated otherwise

QBO3 Arquitectos’ material selection ensures neutral visual tone

The material selection by QBO3 Arquitectos Studio supports the architectural intent. Exposed concrete provides structural clarity and a neutral visual tone that references the natural rock formations of the site. Locally sourced tropical wood adds texture and warmth, while floor-to-ceiling glazing strengthens the link between interior and exterior spaces. Cross-ventilation is used throughout the house, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. The construction process reflects a low-impact strategy. Foundations are selectively anchored to minimize disturbance, and circulation paths are arranged to follow natural site conditions. The building mass is distributed across multiple levels, adapting to the slope and allowing for a more discreet presence within the environment.

Casa Enoki is composed of horizontal volumes that emphasize visual continuity with the horizon and landscape. Rather than serving as a dominant object, the architecture operates as a framing device, one that enables spatial, climatic, and visual engagement with its context.

main facade and its volumetric composition

main entrance, the connection to the horizon line | image by Tirso

connecting bridge between the green terrace and the entertainment area | image by Povtiago

crafted to breathe with the landscape

nestled in nature, Enoki House blurs the line between indoors and out | image by Tirso

composition of the pool lines and the natural context | image by Tirso

minimal lines, maximum connection | image by Tirso

the double height of the social area

the architectural elements merge with the view | image by Tirso

a quiet retreat sculpted for stillness and light

project info:

name: Casa Enoki
architects: QBO3 Arquitectos | @qbo3arquitectos

location: Guanacaste, Costa Rica

interior design: Sofia Interiorismo | @sofiainteriorismo

photographer: Hugo Tirso – Mavix | @tirso______ | @mavix, Alvaro Fonseca – Depth Lens | @depth.lens, Tiago | @povtiago

videographer: Hugo Tirso – Mavix | @arquitectonica_