Heavenly Highlands: A Sustainable Jungle Retreat by Casalvolone Arquitectura

Nestled in the verdant hills of San Jose de Mayo, Costa Rica, Heavenly Highlands by Casalvolone Arquitectura is a 150-square-meter family residence that embodies the essence of modern tropical architecture. Designed by architects Franco Casalvolone and Jorge Gonzalez, this contemporary home seamlessly blends sustainable design, traditional materials, and local craftsmanship—creating an intimate refuge amid the Costa Rican jungle.

Harmonizing Architecture with Nature

Set against a backdrop of lush forests, the home’s sleek black facade dissolves into its surroundings, offering a cool, shaded sanctuary that respects and enhances the natural terrain. Over 300 trees were planted as part of the project, reinforcing the home's commitment to ecological integration. The result is a living sanctuary that disappears into the greenery while preserving biodiversity.

Local Materials with Cultural Significance

From structure to surface, Heavenly Highlands celebrates Costa Rica’s rich material heritage. The flooring features a combination of traditional Mosaicos and Terrazos, giving a handcrafted, cultural texture to every step. These artisanal finishes anchor the home in its regional identity while offering durability and artistic charm.

Inside, the structure reveals warm timber sourced from the forests of the Osa Peninsula, chosen for its strength, resilience, and deep connection to the local environment. The wood's tactile presence fosters a welcoming, cabin-like interior, in stark yet elegant contrast with the home’s exposed concrete surfaces—a signature element in Casalvolone’s architectural vocabulary.

A Dialogue Between Indoors and Outdoors

One of the residence's most striking features is its expansive panoramic windows, which blur the lines between inside and out. These floor-to-ceiling openings invite daylight and cross-ventilation while framing uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape. Whether it’s the morning mist or golden-hour sunsets, the home invites occupants to feel immersed in nature at every moment.

Thoughtfully Crafted Interiors

Every detail of the home’s interior reflects a deep respect for local artisanship. The kitchen, bathroom, closets, and door furniture were handcrafted by regional craftsmen, showcasing Costa Rica’s woodworking traditions and design sensibilities. Rustic yet refined, these custom elements enrich the tactile and emotional experience of the home.

A Self-Sufficient Lifestyle

Beyond aesthetics, Heavenly Highlands embraces a self-sustaining philosophy. The property includes a working farm, complete with vegetable gardens, fruit trees, and farm animals, reinforcing the home’s harmony with its natural environment. This integrated agrarian approach supports healthy living and minimizes ecological impact while fostering a sense of connection to the land.

A Testament to Passion and Craft

Built in 2021, this residence is more than a modern home—it is a manifestation of ecological sensitivity, architectural clarity, and the power of rooted design. Heavenly Highlands is a bold yet respectful insertion into the Costa Rican highlands, a structure that honors both landscape and lifestyle. It stands as a testament to Casalvolone Arquitectura’s commitment to sustainability, culture, and contemporary tropical living.

📐 Project Details:

• Project: Heavenly Highlands
• Location: San Jose de Mayo, Costa Rica
• Architects: Casalvolone Arquitectura
• Lead Architects: Franco Casalvolone, Jorge Gonzalez
• Area: 150 m²
• Year: 2021
• Photography: Andrés García
• Materials: Mosaicos San Antonio, Plycem
• Furniture & Woodwork: Local Artisans

All photographs are works of Andrés García