Ethos House: Modern Brutalist Architecture at its Sustainable Best

[Sherry Nothingam]

Combining modern minimalism with sustainable design can result in homes that are both unique and efficient. That is just what you get with the fabulous Ethos House in Carrillo de Guanacaste, Costa Rica as QBO3 Arquitectos turned a densely wooded lot into an inviting, modern green home. The guiding principle behind the silhouette of the residence was an ability to withstand rough weather conditions along with the need for a home that required minimum maintenance. With the homeowners being away for many weeks at a time, architects chose a modern brutalist style where concrete plays the central role.

Central courtyard of the house preserves existing trees without feeling out of place

Preserving as many trees on the lot as possible and working around a few of them to incorporate them into the central courtyard, bedroom and living space was the trickiest part of the project. With the new additions feeling like an extension of the original, the transition between both the spaces is just seamless. Metallic bars, wooden slats and curated wooden finishes add textural contrast to the setting while large glass windows connect the interior with all the greenery outside. Contemporary, eco-friendly and functional, this Costa Rican home stands out from the crowd!

Contemporary Ethos House in Costa Rica with its minimalist exterior in reinforced concrete

Custom entry of the home combines concrete with a hint of wood and metal

Entry of the home welcomes you in an understated manner

Filtered light and lovely views fashion this fabulous modern bedroom

Greenery around the home makes the biggest impact at this Costa Rica home

Minimal concrete and metal interior of the modern Costa Rica home

Nature, minimalism and practicality shape the sturdy and weather-resistant exterior of the house

Years later, it was decided to expand the architectural program of the house to incorporate a new guest room that integrates naturally into the existing construction. The exterior and interior relationship is felt in every part of the house.

Sustainable design of the home offers scope for greenery to co-exist with the building structure

Brutalist design of the exterior was created to meet the specific needs of the homeowner

Floor plan of the first level of Casa Ethos designed by QBO3 Arquitectos

Second level floor plan of Casa Ethos in Costa Rica

You're reading Ethos House: Modern Brutalist Architecture at its Sustainable Best, originally posted on Decoist. If you enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Decoist on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.