Rio Perdido – West Bungalows | Bagaces, Guanacaste
“In the ecological town of Bagaces, Costa Rica, near the volcanic range, floating pavilions anchored in lush forests reveal mesmerizing canyon vistas”
| Overview
Nestled on a raised peninsula formed by two converging canyons in Bagaces County, Costa Rica, the Rio Perdido West Bungalows immerse guests in a unique setting where the Rio Blanco’s cool waters merge with the warm currents of the Rio Perdido. Historically overlooked due to limited access, this pristine canyon area now provides the backdrop for bungalows that seamlessly connect visitors with the region’s lush forests and hidden river.
| Concept
Studio Saxe envisioned these floating pavilions to elevate the hotel experience while lightly touching the land. Each bungalow rests on slender pilotis, allowing rainwater and wildlife to flow freely beneath. Frameless glass provides uninterrupted, panoramic views of the surrounding forest and canyon. The purpose was to craft an environment that seamlessly blends contemporary comfort with the region’s cultural essence.
| Design
A carefully positioned stone wall functions as a visual barrier—offering privacy while simultaneously revealing the canyon and anchoring the building to the ground. This design intention articulates the transition between shared and private spaces, reflecting both the site’s topography and the region’s cultural heritage.
Through thoughtful space planning, electromechanical coordination, and lighting design, our team created a retreat where tropical simplicity meets refined luxury, immersing guests in the surrounding forest while preserving privacy and unobstructed views.
Expansive terraces and thoughtfully integrated outdoor showers further foster a constant dialogue between the built environment and nature, ensuring guests remain linked to the sights and sounds of this remarkable landscape.. Meanwhile, a discreet partition between the bedroom and bathroom maintains privacy without breaking sight lines, and a long, uninterrupted window frames breathtaking canyon views—drawing nature into the heart of each space.
| Sustainability
Emphasizing minimal impact, the bungalows hover above the ground to preserve the site’s natural flow of water and wildlife. Long roof overhangs help reduce solar heat gain and protect against heavy rains, supporting passive cooling strategies that cut down on energy use. Locally sourced wood, stone, and other natural materials harmonize with the surrounding forest, reinforcing a commitment to environmental stewardship and respect for Costa Rica’s ecological integrity
| Construction
Although the bungalows follow a unifying design language, each structure adapts to the terrain’s varying elevations and conditions. Prefabrication techniques streamlined construction while maintaining a site-specific approach, ensuring minimal disruption to the delicate ecosystem. The result is a contemporary tropical architecture that stands in harmony with its setting—born from a light-touch philosophy and built to last through the careful integration of modern materials and regional craftsmanship.
