Casa Flotanta in Costa Rica’s Puntarenas floats above the jungle canopy, overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Concrete, stone and wood steps lead up to the holiday home, which comprises three staggered, steel-framed ‘pods’. These cabins sit on concrete stilts, and are connected by aerial bamboo walkways, minimising the villa’s impact on the forest floor beneath.

‘We essentially lifted the house up into the air on a series of piloti which gives the impression that it is floating above the hillside,’ says practice Benjamin Garcia Saxe Architecture.

As with the studio’s other projects, sustainability is at the fore of the 300 sq m property’s design. Casa Flotanta’s shed roofs collect rainwater, which is heated by solar panels. And instead of using extensive glazing, living areas open fully to the balconies across the three bedroom house – available to rent via Plans Matter from $714 per night – via large folding shutters, creating natural ventilation.

Inside the Costa Rican holiday home, floors and ceilings are made from sustainably sourced teak, with bamboo accents and crisp white walls. Furniture is also made of wood, with bright flashes of colour thrown into the mix via fabrics.

A private, shaded swimming pool with its own terrace can be found beside the house for cooling off in and Hermosa Beach is a stone’s throw away. Santa Teresa is also short drive from the house.

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