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KMA Designs Casa AD in Costa Rica, Emphasizing Nature and Outdoor Living

KMA. Katia Marten Arquitectos has completed Casa AD in Marbella, Guanacaste, a residence designed to foster connection between architecture, nature, and people, prioritizing outdoor living and a harmonious integration with the tropical dry forest environment.

News Published 23 May 2026 4 min read Mara Ellison
Exterior view of Casa AD with an infinity pool overlooking a tropical dry forest in Marbella, Guanacaste.
Featured image from the source article

KMA. Katia Marten Arquitectos has unveiled Casa AD, a residential project located in a gated community adjacent to Playa Marbella, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. The design concept for Casa AD centers on creating a welcoming space for family and friends, deeply integrating the surrounding tropical dry forest views with the warmth of the home. The architecture emphasizes a profound connection between the built environment, the natural landscape, and its inhabitants, with a particular focus on enhancing outdoor living experiences.

The firm's philosophy for Casa AD was built upon three foundational pillars: ensuring privacy, achieving a seamless fusion of architecture with nature, and inviting the external environment into the comfort of the interior spaces. This approach is a direct response to Costa Rica's consistently warm climate and rich biodiversity, which make outdoor areas integral to enjoying the renowned "pura vida" lifestyle. Casa AD’s architectural language is characterized by its simple yet elegant lines, aiming to create a healthy, happy, and harmonious environment.

Key facts

  • Project Name: Casa AD
  • Location: Marbella, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
  • Architect: KMA. Katia Marten Arquitectos
  • Design Concept: Fusion of architecture and nature, privacy, outdoor living
  • Architectural Style: Modern, minimalist, integration with landscape

Embracing Outdoor Living

The external areas of Casa AD are designed to play a pivotal role from the moment guests arrive, setting a tone that inspires outdoor living. The design thoughtfully incorporates the natural elements and the essence of the tropical dry forest, making them a constant presence within the home. This deliberate emphasis on outdoor spaces is a core tenet of the project, reflecting the firm's commitment to creating environments that promote well-being and a connection to nature. The integration of natural elements like water and stone, alongside carefully selected furniture and native plants, further enhances the warmth and character of the project, directly contributing to the high-vibration atmosphere the firm aims to cultivate.

Spatial Organization and Materiality

Casa AD is organized into two primary modules that delineate social and private zones. This "L"-shaped distribution is strategically employed to leverage the site's geometry, creating distinct areas of seclusion from neighboring properties and public streets. The main facade is defined by two substantial walls that act as significant linear elements, facilitating a smooth transition from the exterior environment into the house.

Upon entering Casa AD, visual barriers are minimized through the extensive use of glass components. This architectural strategy is instrumental in strengthening the relationship between people and the natural context. A wall that extends from side to side frames a distinctive main door, serving as a welcoming gesture to visitors. This entrance immediately opens up to a view of the terrace and an infinity pool, which, surrounded by trees, creates a reflective surface that amplifies the sense of being immersed in nature. This transition is designed to offer an exceptional experience of outdoor living, embodying a cherished ideal for many.

The firm’s commitment to well-being is evident in the design's consideration of natural light and ventilation. Casa AD is designed to maximize natural light penetration throughout the day and facilitate fresh air circulation at night. This passive design strategy not only enhances the living experience but also allows occupants to appreciate the striking night sky. The project is envisioned as a space where individuals can enjoy life in a beautiful, healthy, and happy environment, fostering the creation of lasting memories across generations.

KMA. Katia Marten Arquitectos’s philosophy centers on creating spaces that nurture well-being, safety, and happiness while living in harmony with nature. Casa AD is presented as a tangible manifestation of this guiding principle. The thoughtful incorporation of natural elements, the emphasis on spatial flow, and the commitment to a holistic living experience position Casa AD as a significant example of contemporary residential design in Costa Rica. The project seeks to demonstrate how architecture can actively contribute to a higher quality of life by fostering a deep and respectful connection with the natural world.

Source: Amazing Architecture, https://amazingarchitecture.com/houses/casa-ad-28-marbella-guanacaste-by-kma-katia-marten-arquitectos

Source

Amazing Architecture Original publication: 2026-05-21T18:48:48+00:00