The Atrium House: Where Forest Canopy Meets 360° Ocean Views

Atrium House is a 756 m² architectural residence in Las Huacas, Nosara, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, designed by Benjamin Saxe of Studio Saxe around 360° Pacific Ocean horizons and the surrounding forest canopy. Set high along the ridge line above Playa Guiones, the home combines multi level indoor and outdoor living, a central passive cooling atrium, private pool, custom interiors, and preserved mature trees within a distinctive hillside design.

Rather than imposing a conventional structure on its setting, Atrium House was integrated into the hilltop and positioned around mature trees to preserve the existing canopy. The architecture responds directly to the landscape, creating a close relationship between the residence, tropical vegetation, and broad ocean outlooks.

At the center is the namesake atrium, a dramatic vertical space designed to serve both architectural and practical purposes. Ocean breezes are drawn upward through the structure, naturally regulating temperature and reducing energy dependency. This passive approach complements the home’s open living spaces and connection to the outdoors.

The upper level social area floats above the tree line, opening the residence to sunset views across the Pacific and Playa Guiones while maintaining privacy. An open floor plan is complemented by custom furniture, tailored millwork, and curated art pieces. On the ground level, a second social space connects directly with the private pool, built in outdoor lounge, BBQ area, and surrounding tropical greenery.

Atrium House sits alongside a local wildlife corridor, bringing sightings of howler monkeys, toucans, and native birds into the everyday experience of the property. Playa Guiones and the downtown area are approximately 3 to 4 kilometers away, with a drive of about five minutes.

Built using methods intended for high durability coastal construction, the residence is designed for low ongoing maintenance despite its tropical environment. Atrium House is offered turnkey and can serve as either a private estate or an income generating property within the Nosara luxury market, with private viewings arranged by appointment. Atrium House brings architecture, forest canopy, and panoramic Pacific views together in Las Huacas, Nosara, Costa Rica.