Year:
2015
KETTER HOUSE
Built Area:
180 m2
Project Architect:
Luz Letelier
Location:
Altos del Cacique, Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, C.R.
A sustainable architecture project in warm climates designed by architects for residential projects in Costa Rica, becoming a reference of architecture in Guanacaste for its passive approach and its integration with the natural environment conceived to respond to the extreme climate of Guanacaste, classified as a dry tropics due to its prolonged dry season.
The land was chosen for its location and its trees, typical of the tropical dry forest. The house was divided into two main sections, with the angles following the topography and the dimensions necessary to avoid cutting down any trees, taking advantage of their proximity, shade, and the paths of birds and mammals that accompany daily life.
The house takes advantage of the marine breeze through high ceilings and aluminum louvers to maximize natural ventilation. It is elevated off the ground to avoid heat gain from the soil and, at the same time, take advantage of the topography to incorporate service areas and living areas next to the pool. The design minimizes the impact of heat and sound, creating a comfortable space without the need for air conditioning.
Local materials such as wood were used for the roof structure and plastic tiles, one of the few recycled materials available on the local market. Doors with plant designs were also introduced in the bedroom and main entrance, emphasizing the relationship with the trees and nature in the area.
Some gabion retaining walls were built prior to the entrance, covered with vegetation, like a vertical garden that can be seen from the windows. The house has solar water heaters, reducing its energy demand, and does not have air conditioning, which was only installed in the office.
Casa Ketter has received much praise, as it remains fresh even in extreme weather, demonstrating that the passive design implementations were effective and achieved a pleasant, bright space connected to the natural environment, as proposed by architects for residential projects in Costa Rica focused on sustainability and comfort.
