At Studio Octava, we design timeless, one-of-a-kind hospitality spaces that break away from the repetitive styles seen in many Costa Rican hotels. Instead of following trends, we take inspiration from top hospitality destinations in the world crafting designs that feel effortless, comfortable, and unique.

We love to brainstorm with our clients, exploring every option to create something truly different. Every hotel or Airbnb we design is a tailored experience, balancing modern comfort with natural beauty.

Our approach includes:

• Seamless indoor-outdoor living – Large openings, terraces, and courtyards to embrace nature.
• Smart materials & construction – Lightweight steel for efficiency, wood for warmth, and durable finishes suited for Costa Rica’s climate.
• Comfort-driven design – Passive cooling, shaded areas, and well-planned layouts for year-round comfort.
• Full involvement – We’re on-site, ensuring every design detail comes to life as planned.

No cookie-cutter designs—just bold, timeless spaces that make a lasting impression.

Sustainability isn’t just about materials—it’s about designing smart, low-maintenance spaces that last. At Studio Octava, we focus on efficiency, durability, and guest comfort, ensuring every hotel or Airbnb is built to handle Costa Rica’s climate while staying cost-effective.

Here’s how we do it:

• Passive cooling & ventilation – Natural airflow, cross-ventilation, and deep overhangs to reduce the need for A/C.
• Durable & weather-resistant materials – We use lightweight steel structures, high-quality wood finishes, and coatings that resist humidity and salt air.
• Locally sourced materials – Smart use of Costa Rican hardwoods, stone, and steel to reduce transport costs and enhance authenticity.
• Energy efficiency – Solar-ready designs, strategic building orientation, and efficient lighting to lower operational costs.

We don’t believe in generic “eco” solutions—sustainability should feel seamless, enhancing the guest experience while keeping maintenance low.

Building a boutique hotel or Airbnb in Costa Rica means balancing cost efficiency with design impact. We focus on smart construction methods that save time and money—while also knowing where to invest for maximum impact.

Here’s how we do it:

• Lightweight steel structures – Faster to build, termite-proof, and more adaptable than traditional concrete.
• Hybrid construction – Steel framing for efficiency, paired with wood accents for warmth and authenticity.
• Prefabricated components – Modular wall panels, steel frames, and pre-cut elements reduce labor costs and build time.
• Smart layouts – Every square meter serves a purpose, cutting down waste and unnecessary expenses.
• Strategic splurging – We believe in investing in unique surfaces, high-quality woods, and curated art—these details elevate a space and create a truly memorable guest experience.

Since we’re personally involved in every project, we help clients spend where it matters and save where it makes sense.

Costa Rica’s tropical climate is beautiful but demanding—high humidity, heavy rains, and intense sun can take a toll on buildings. We design hotels and Airbnbs to be comfortable, durable, and low-maintenance, ensuring they last in this environment.

Here’s how we adapt to the climate:

• Elevated foundations – Raising buildings off the ground prevents flooding, moisture damage, and better airflow.
• Ventilated roofs & shading – Double-layer roofing, deep overhangs, and pergolas help keep interiors cool.
• Weather-resistant materials – Lightweight steel frames resist rust and termites, while treated woods handle humidity without warping.
• Natural airflow & cooling – We design for cross-ventilation and strategically place openings to reduce the need for A/C.
• Durable, high-end surfaces – We choose materials that age beautifully, from stone floors to premium woods and handcrafted finishes.

We’re on-site, making sure every design decision works for the climate—because the last thing you want is a space that looks great but doesn’t hold up in the long run.

Yes, we’re more than just architects—we’re hands-on throughout the entire process. We don’t just design and hand over drawings. We’re personally involved from concept to construction, making sure the project is built exactly as envisioned.

We work with trusted local contractors to ensure everything runs smoothly. Our role is to bridge the gap between the creative vision and the realities of building in Costa Rica. That means making sure materials arrive on time, that the details are executed correctly, and that the final result matches the design intent.

Our process includes:

• Custom hospitality concepts – Tailored to the location, guest experience, and budget.
• Permit approvals and compliance – Navigating Costa Rica’s zoning and building regulations.
• Material selection and sourcing – Balancing cost, durability, and aesthetics.
• Project management and construction oversight – Ensuring every decision aligns with the original design.

We believe great architecture isn’t just about ideas. It’s about making sure those ideas are built right. That’s why we’re present on-site, working closely with the builders, solving challenges in real time, and keeping everything on track.

Starting a boutique hotel or Airbnb in Costa Rica is exciting, but there are key factors to get right from the beginning. We’ve worked with many hotel owners looking to elevate their existing properties, and we’ve seen how the right design choices can completely transform the guest experience and increase profitability.

Key considerations include:

• Location and land conditions – Coastal vs. inland regulations, access to utilities, and topography impact both design and construction.
• Construction logistics – Transporting materials can be challenging, so we plan for efficient delivery and storage to avoid delays.
• Upgrading existing hotels – Many of our clients come to us looking to refresh outdated designs, improve guest flow, and create a more high-end, memorable experience.
• Sustainability and energy efficiency – Smart choices like strategic building orientation, passive cooling, and energy-efficient materials lower operational costs.
• Guest experience and branding – Every successful hospitality project has a story. We help you create a space that’s Instagram-worthy, immersive, and designed for comfort.

Since we’re personally involved in every project, we guide our clients through these decisions, ensuring their investment is not just beautiful, but also practical and profitable.