Casa Solai is a retreat by Studio Saxe in Costa Rica that balances grounded solidity with soaring lightness. Composed of two wooden pavilions perched above the jungle canopy in Santa Teresa, the design creates an arresting contrast between one volume anchored to the hillside and another that appears to float above the trees.

A linking vestibule guides movement while framing panoramic views of the Pacific. The elevated volume is wrapped in wooden brise-soleil slats that regulate light and airflow and enhance the sense of levitation. Interiors reflect the exterior’s harmony, with reforested teak ceilings, stone finishes, and a soft, earthy palette that echoes the coastal surroundings. Designed with sustainability in mind, the house features rainwater harvesting, solar systems, passive cooling strategies, and locally sourced materials—offering a serene, responsible model of modern tropical architecture.

Image Credit: Alvaro Fonseca