salagnac arquitectos invites traveling surfers to explore costa rica’s nomadic hotel

salagnac arquitectos sites its ‘nomadic hotel‘ along a coastal road leading to costa rica’s  guiones beach, a small but popular surf destination in nosara. the design team creates the space as a place of gathering for young surfers, and a place where travelers might engage with each other, share their experiences, and enjoy each others’ company. at the same time, the boutique hotel offers enough privacy for solitary retreat. the project introduces a welcoming and familiar atmosphere, with an element of seclusion away from the main road.

images by andres garcia lachner

the salagnac arquitectos-designed nomadic hotel is oriented with its narrow facade, with three entrances, looking toward the road. the main entrance is elevated a half level, and leads to the reception and living areas located on the second floor. open to the sky above, these areas showcase the best views and catch more coastal breezes. from the social area, visitors have an vast, open view to bordering nature reserve.

salagnac arquitects designs its nomadic hotel with a masonry materiality, the most common construction method in the region. all corners are rounded, while the contrasting timber material is integrated in simply and naturally. the timber adds also a soft and natural texture, with most of the wood work crafted by local artisans. other materials, used as accents, include cane, tiles, and stone. the design presents a simple composition of solid geometric forms. small openings or wood windows serve as a contrast to the wide open spaces that generate open living areas around the rounded solid forms.

project info:

project title: nomadic hotel

architecture: salagnac arquitectos

location: nosara, costa rica

manufacturers: barn light electric, fireclay, schoolhouse electric, evoke the spirit, one forty three, popham design

photography: andres garcia lachner