Design Buy Build Issue 47 2020 | Page 83

CONSTRUCTION
The construction method of this dwelling came directly from understanding the capability of the soil to hold weight and the seismic conditions that exist in Costa Rica . Together with engineers Studio Saxe decided to create a lightweight steel structure that would pre-cut off site and assembled quickly and efficiently on the site . Teak wood is a prevalent material in the area which is sustainably resourced , and thus the studio and the client wanted to explore the possibility of giving longevity to this natural material by exploring the ancient technique of charring it and finishing with special natural oils . This blend of ancient and new technologies creates an architecture that is both tropical and timeless .
SUSTAINABILITY
" Due to the constrained nature of the size of the site , Studio Saxe decided to create a house composed of two floors that in turn are staggered to break the mass of the dwelling . "
TIMBER
Studio Saxe begins every design process with a careful analysis of the phenomenological site conditions and then explores ways of integrating client dreams and comforts within the natural habitat . Bioclimatic Design creates the ideal technical design process to scientifically understand wind patterns , sun exposure , temperature , and many other aspects to then shape the design intelligently to adapt to these conditions without the use of active energy measures . The Tres Amores House uses the power of the sun to heat water , minimize energy consumption , as well as recycles water through filters , and utilizes state of the art treatment plant systems . This design is a clear reflection of an approach to design that combines high tech preemptive design with low tech construction methods .
TRES AMORES :
Location : Nosara , Guanacaste , Costa Rica 
 Date of Completion : January 2020 
 Client : The Srebnick Family Area : Approx . 515 m2 Design Director : Benjamin G . Saxe Builder : JIMACO 
 Structural Engineer : Sotela Alfaro Ltda . Electromechanical Engineer : CIEM Elecromecanica Photographer : Andres Garcia Lachner
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