Portfolio
Casa Marquise
Project
Type:
Residential
Location:
Hermosa
Year:
2023
STATUS:
In Progress
• CONCEPT
The Marquise House — A Tropical Home with a Sculptural Form
Casa Marquise is a one-of-a-kind home designed to blend sculptural elegance with tropical practicality. Inspired by the soft geometry of a marquise shape, the house centers around a curved timber roof—an architectural first in Costa Rica. This sweeping form anchors the design both visually and functionally, creating a spacious, light-filled interior while naturally cooling the home. The project reflects Studio Octava’s signature approach: merging bold form, climate-sensitive design, and a deep respect for the surrounding landscape.
A marquise shaped skylight as the centerpiece in the social area.
At the heart of the house is the dramatic marquise roof, which lifts over a generous central living area with double-height ceilings. This volume not only enhances airflow and daylight but also establishes a strong architectural identity. The roofline curves gently toward the horizon, inviting sky views and adding a sense of openness that contrasts beautifully with the enclosed private rooms on either end.
Where Tradition and Modernity Meet
Casa Marquise plays with contrast, combining classic tropical elements like the deep brown roof with clean, modern interiors. Studio Octava introduced soft curves, minimalist furnishings, and bright finishes to create a space that feels timeless and refined. The result is a fresh take on the Bali-style home, reimagined for the Costa Rican jungle.
Opening to Nature, Protecting from the Elements
Floor-to-ceiling windows in the common spaces frame breathtaking ocean and jungle views while maintaining thermal comfort. Smart orientation and extended roof overhangs reduce heat gain and shield the interiors during the dry season. The house feels connected to the outdoors without ever being exposed—delivering a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.
A Landscape That Gently Follows
The surrounding gardens follow the home’s natural rhythm. Meandering paths weave through layered greenery, with corten steel edging adding warmth and structure. The landscaping mirrors the fluidity of the architecture, creating a calm, immersive setting that supports both privacy and exploration.
• PROJECT Participants
Architectural:
Studio Octava
Interior Design:
Studio Octava
General Contractor:
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Structural Engineering:
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MEP Engineering:
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Other Collaborators:
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Lighting Design:
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Photography:
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• ABout Studio Octava
We are a full service architecture firm that designs and develops high quality residential, hotel and commercial projects from concept to delivery in Costa Rica. Our work is rooted in nature & built for life
At Studio Octava, we design homes that reflect the people who live in them. Every project is a unique collaboration – tailored to the site, the lifestyle, and the vision of each client. Rooted in nature and crafted with care, our designs aim to feel timeless, personal, and perfectly at home in their surroundings.
