On the North Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Waldorf Astoria Punta Cacique illustrates the Pura Vida -Speh philosophy of life, which is deeply rooted in both design and construction of the resort – typically of progressive hospitality models in the global south.
“The design story is based on the concept of the barefoot luxury and celebrates the unique topography of the peninsula,” explains Bryan Liska, Senior Director of Design, Architecture, Design and Construction for Latin America and the Caribbean in Hilton. “The architectural programming is carefully terraced in the natural contours and captures unforgettable views in the entire resort.”
The structures of the resort reflect the curves of the Punta Cacique Mountains, while its surroundings inspire the color palette – from the coastal rock trenches to earthed browns from the dry season to the lush greens of the rainy season. In the 188 guest rooms and suites as well as in the expansive outdoor and dining terraces in public areas, the monolithic grinding pivot doors, seamlessly indoor and outdoor areas in the 188 guest rooms and suites as well as the expansive lounge outdoors. The result? The resort is like an organic expansion of the site.
This deep connection with nature is committed to saving it. The living roofs mitigate warming islands to improve energy efficiency, while creating a detention pond protects the nearby beach from erosion to control the water outflow.
Local plants were carefully integrated to cover the structures and improve the feeling of the place and at the same time promote sustainability. The team also worked with local craftsmen from Guanacaste and put together low-maintenance materials from local suppliers to reduce the CO2 footprint and also promote the local economy. Overall, they ensure an appealing dialogue with the exquisite place.