Kasiiya Papagayo: A Sustainable Eco-Resort in Costa Rica
This beachfront hotel in Costa Rica boasts strong eco-credentials and has been longlisted in the hospitality category of the Dezeen Awards 2020, celebrated for its commitment to conservation in design.
Kasiiya Papagayo opened in 2018 in Guanacaste as an eco-resort and has garnered attention in the architecture world ever since. This is largely due to its delicate design, deeply rooted in conservation, sustainability, and minimalism—an essential aspect considering the Pacific coast of Costa Rica has been dubbed the “most biologically intense place on Earth” by National Geographic.
Recently, it was announced that the hotel was nominated for the Dezeen Awards 2020, which recognizes “the world’s best architecture, interiors, and design.” Kasiiya was longlisted in the hospitality building category, competing alongside unique accommodations such as a boat-room hotel in China, a boutique hotel in Japan, and a historic hotel revamp in Italy.
Designed by French studio AW², Kasiiya was constructed without harming the trees on-site or using concrete and nails, according to its designers. It incorporates mostly natural materials, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the hillside. “From the very beginning, the conservation of the tropical forest has been paramount. Our intention throughout the project was not to have minimal impact on the environment, but zero,” the design team explains, emphasizing that the design philosophy blurs the lines between architecture and the natural surroundings.
The hotel features seven luxurious tented suites that are elegantly designed with bespoke furniture and breathtaking views of the forest and ocean. Each suite includes an outdoor shower, roll-top bath, and expansive windows. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a restaurant that prides itself on serving organic and locally sourced produce, a beach bar, a spa, and miles of walking trails across 123 acres of pristine jungle, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
Currently, Kasiiya is closed to guests due to the ongoing pandemic; however, it has announced a reopening date of December 15, 2020. Costa Rica began welcoming tourists from low-risk countries in July, and recently, it has permitted tourism from six US states in September, with plans for broader access by year’s end.
To stay updated on Kasiiya Papagayo’s participation in the Dezeen Awards, you can find more details here. The shortlist is anticipated to be released in September.
