Project Pura Vida Home Tour

March 1, 2024

Located on the breathtaking coast of Santa Teresa, Costa Rica


The inspiration guiding this luxurious beachfront vacation home was to create an entertaining oasis for friends and family. Seeking to blend all the elements of a serene retreat with the client’s love of entertaining, every detail was meticulously crafted to create an atmosphere of relaxation and quality time with guests.  When it came to all the aesthetic touches, the design objective was to create a natural earth-inspired space that feels sophisticated and elegant but makes sense functionally and feels inviting to guests. 


The kitchen was designed with a soft and neutral palette and naturally inspired materials to create a space that feels organic and highlights the beautiful natural resources found in Costa Rica. With that in mind, we selected as much locally sourced material as possible in the home including this striking artisan cabinetry crafted out of Guanacaste, the National Tree of Costa Rica. By using local artisans and incorporating indigenous materials, this design blends indoor and outdoor living environments and in turn contributes to a unique, eco-friendly kitchen design.

These clients love entertaining and that created a need for copious seating. This led to opting for a dual-sided sectional to accommodate all their guests comfortably. Another key factor in the design was durability. This was an important consideration when designing their indoor-outdoor living space.  Keeping that in mind, a performance fabric was selected in an elegant gray boucle to complement the neutral surroundings that allow for normal use. Whether you’re watching the sunset or conversing with people in the kitchen, this space remains resilient to poolside lounging while allowing guests to unwind and connect.  

This locally sourced slab in a leathered finish, takes center stage in this moody powder room.  The gorgeous floor-to-ceiling veining is captured through the backsplash, countertop, and sink. By making a large impact in a small space with all design elements carefully appointed, including the deep wall color, soft floor, and airy light fixtures, you enhance its beauty and the drama it brings to the space. 

This gorgeous primary bedroom and bath feature floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of sunlight and breathtaking views. The custom bed and nightstand console float in the center of the room, providing a focal point in an intentionally minimalistic bedroom. The bathroom features more locally sourced slab, cabinetry, and plaster, designed to withstand the natural elements while maintaining the overall design aesthetic. We are obsessed with this serene outdoor bathing area that is the perfect place to soak in the surroundings and feel at one with nature. 

This cabana is the ultimate spot for entertaining in between pool dips to watch movies and sporting events, shoot pool, and mix up drinks at the bar. The glass accordion doors are one of our favorite features, letting in fresh air and blending indoor and outdoor spaces, whether it’s enjoying the outdoor firepit or soaking in the hot tub. 

We hope you enjoyed this peak into paradise!


Alder and Tweed