SIERRA COLLECTION - COSTA RICA'S PREMIER RESIDENCES

SIERRA COLLECTION

AxiomCostaRica.com

COSTA RICA’S PREMIER RESIDENCES

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AXIOM ADVENTUROUS. INVESTED. SOPHISTICATED. Redefining real estate development in Costa Rica

It’s not often you come across a real estate developer who thinks

the product would be most beneficial to the community while

reputation and credibility are the most important things they have to

in harmony with the existing environment.”

build. Axiom Development Group is a little different that way. What and

It is through this philosophy that Axiom clearly demonstrates that they are

where they build, how they build, and what it says about them are as

naturally invested in the places they develop, and that they take care

important as the buildings themselves.

to ensure the impact they have on the community and the environment is positive. Combined with their cumulative experience in luxury

They also understand that simply saying something is one thing, while

residential, commercial, urban, recreational, and resort development,

actually doing it speaks volumes. To ensure the community sees the

the Axiom development team has a history of creating defining real

commitment and credibility of their undertaking in transforming real

estate projects.

estate development in the Southern Zone of Costa Rica, Axiom has accomplished something rather novel by pre-building not only one

Axiom’s strategic vision comes from its founders, Michael Himes and

project, but three distinctive projects.

Blake Delatte. As Executive Director and Director of Development, Michael and Blake combine their love of the country and its environment

“We believe that every great place has a soul. A uniqueness that

to ensure that the homes they build not only create long-term value for

defines it and draws us to it while awakening our sense of adventure,

homeowners, but also contribute to the communities in which they are

and that once discovered, pulls us back to share it with the people

located. This practice results

who are most important to us. This belief is the foundation of all of our

in every home being thoughtfully integrated into the natural

development practices and it directs us in deciding not only which

Costa Rican rainforest.

product to create, but also where

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MICHAEL HIMES Founder and president of the largest petroleum pure wholesaler in the USA, Michael is a native of the state of Indiana, a political science graduate, an army veteran, an explorer and natural adventurer. His thirst for new horizons has taken him around the world, but it was only after discovering the purity of the Costa Rica experience that he decided that this is where he would leave his legacy, establishing Axiom Development Group to share the treasure he had found with others.

BLAKE DELATTE A designer, land planner, and architect by trade, Blake is an ardent student of the natural world, creating a design and development philosophy that is fundamentally anchored in the integration of culture, environment and community. His work at EDSA, one of the world’s foremost planning companies, resulted in iconic urban centers, luxury resort properties and intimate ecoretreats. As a founding partner of Axiom and resident of Costa Rica, his philosophy is woven into the fabric of every project they undertake.

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Everything you’ve ever wanted to know about

COSTA RICA COSTA RICA SEEMS TO HAVE IT ALL FIGURED OUT. THEY HAVE DECLARED AN INNOVATIVE ‘PEACE WITH NATURE’ INITIATIVE THAT INCLUDES A COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AND MAKING COSTA RICA CARBON NEUTRAL BY 2023. IT IS A PLACE FOR PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE. WHETHER YOU ARE AN EXPLORER, NATURE LOVER, INTO EXTREME SPORTS OR JUST LIKE TO RELAX, COSTA RICA HAS SOMETHING FOR YOU. THE COUNTRY MAY BE SMALL, BUT IT IS ABUNDANTLY EXPANDING WITH ACTIVITIES, WITH SOMETHING NEW AROUND EVERY CORNER.

THE HISTORY The recorded history of Costa Rica begins around 1500, but human habitation dates back as far as 10,000 years. Little is known of the ancient cultures that inhabited the coastlines.

They left very few clues about their semi-nomadic existence in the way of ruins, statues, or monuments, but what they did leave us is a wonderful mystery; perfect granite spheres scattered across the southwest coastline. These mysterious spheres come in all sizes, from a few inches to over 6 feet in diameter and weighing in at over 15 tons. Why they were created, what they were used for, and who carved them is unknown. While there are many theories from a variety of experts, for the rest of us, they are just another aspect of Costa Rica that makes it so enchanting.

Christopher Columbus and the Spanish arrived near what is currentday Puerto Limón on September 18, 1502. Greeted by the local Carib Indians, he named the region Costa Rica, or “Rich Coast,” after observing the abundant gold decorations worn by the locals. While large deposits of gold were never found, and the region stayed largely unsettled by the Spanish for decades, the local tribes eventually suffered from the same dire effects as others in the region in response to the European invasion, and the Indian population dwindled rapidly. Today’s Costa Rican population of around 3.8 million is 90% white, including mestizo, with only 1% of the population of Indian heritage.

With the dream of finding mountains of gold never materializing, Costa Rica

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was largely forgotten by the Spanish with only a few settlements like Heredia, San José, and Alajuela becoming established. In 1808 however, coffee put Costa Rica back on the map, and frontier entrepreneurs began to develop the country which lead to wealth, class structure, and eventually independence from Spain in 1821.

Over the next 100 years, Costa Rica suffered from a variety of class disputes, political struggles, and finally a short civil war in 1948. By 1949 however, Costa Rica had a new democratic government and progressive new constitution that gave women the right to vote, dismantled the Costa Rican army, banned the communist party, nationalized banks, and established presidential term limits, among other things. Since then Costa Rica has remained one of the few politically and economically stable countries in the region, and has remained so for over half a century.

THE PEOPLE Costa Ricans refer to themselves as “Ticos,” and their official language is Spanish, with only a few indigenous languages spoken in remote areas of the country. English is spoken in most tourist areas and within most business proceedings, as well as by the local population on the Caribbean coast.

Unlike other Latin American countries, Costa Rica is largely middle class and has higher levels of income, education, and lower poverty levels.

Costa Rica’s focus on education, healthcare, and the environment has resulted in the economy’s unprecedented steady growth over the past decade, thus permitting the

country to focus on international concerns such as leading the world’s efforts in environmental initiatives.

THE CULTURE Due to the loss of the indigenous culture, and the rich European, North American and Caribbean influences, Costa Rica does not have a distinct local culture. If you had to give it a label, it would be “Latin Internationalism,” where influences from around the globe are adopted and given a wonderful Latin flair by ‘the friendliest people in the world.’ This cosmopolitan approach to life is best seen in the local cuisine. Never too spicy, and always rich in nutrition and hearty in flavor, the local cuisine is typically centered among beef, chicken, or one of the many assortments of fresh fish and seafood.

If there is a national dish, it is Casado, which consists of rice, salad, fried plantains, black beans, and grilled meat or seafood. This dish is so commonplace it can be found throughout the country in every open-air lunch counter, and most recently, it has been featured in finer dining establishments as well, where chefs use their various backgrounds to bring new flavors and techniques to the creation of this popular dish.

Similar in popularity to Casado, the popular breakfast dish of Gallo Pinto, a simple take on fried rice and black beans, can also be readily found throughout the country. Typically served with fresh fruit, farm-raised eggs, organic cheeses, and warm tortillas, this satisfying breakfast is not only delicious but also economical to locals and tourists alike. Mirroring the casual and friendly attitude of the

COSTA RICA 101

country, dining is generally a leisurely experience, with restaurants opening midmorning and closing around midnight. From casual roadside Soda lunch counters to an array of worldly cuisine, you’ll always find something to satisfy your appetite in Costa Rica.

TRANSPORTATION Due to its central location and developed infrastructure, traveling to and around Costa Rica is more straightforward than one might expect.

San Jose International Airport receives direct flights from major cities in North America, Europe, Central America and South America. From there, major highways and a developed network of transportation options make exploring the country relatively easy and similar to most countries. Whether you decide to fly, explore the country by car, take a taxi, or even jump on local buses to get around, you’ll find that Costa Rica’s transportation system is dependable, safe, smoothly operated.

THE ENVIRONMENT What Costa Rica might lack in indigenous culture, it more than makes up for in natural beauty. Costa Rica is extraordinarily bio diverse, and with its wildlife, natural attractions, and reputation for conservation, it is a magnet for anyone who loves nature.

Bordering both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, with a series of volcanic mountain chains dividing the country, its diverse topography forms more than 12 ecosystems, producing

one of the richest concentrations of fauna and flora found on the planet.

Costa Rica has an unwavering pride and appreciation for its natural beauty, and while it has a large industry devoted to tourism, it will not sacrifice the environment for its pursuit. With 27% of the country designated as National Parks and reserves, it has instead taken an approach of preservation and ecotourism to ensure that its magnificent natural resources and lush, untouched rainforests will exist for generations to come.

The temperate climate in Costa Rica makes it easy to get out and enjoy the natural wonders of the country. With spring-like weather year-round, the average temperature in the Central Valley is 72 o F (22 oC), while the coastal temperatures range between 70o F (21oC) to 90o F (32oC).

THE GOVERNMENT Costa Rica’s government is recognized as the most stable government in the region with an undisturbed democracy in place for over half a century. The 1949 political Constitution guarantees the legal equality of its citizens, as well as providing freedom of expression, meeting, press, and the right to form organizations. Applicable not only to its lawful citizens, Costa Rica extends these fundamental rights to all foreigners as well. Astonishing to many, the Costa Rican Constitution further prohibits the establishment of an army, thereby placing Costa Rica

among the very few number of countries free from military forces and interests. Like in the USA, political elections take place every four years; the President, Congressmen and Municipal Representatives are popularly chosen.

THE ECONOMY For over half a century, Costa Rica has largely focused on the growth, strength, and stability of its economy.

Displaying a strong economy for decades, it is no surprise that Costa Rica has become one of the most popular places in the region for foreign investors. Over 50,000 USA citizens permanently reside in Costa Rica, and nearly 700,000 people visit each year from the USA alone.

Like most developed economies, Costa Rica is not immune to the rises and falls of the global market, yet its economy remains stable with 71% of its GDP derived from the service sector. Boasting the highest standard of living in the region and a low unemployment rate, it’s no wonder that “pura vida,” or “life is good,” persists as the local expression used when greeting others. With its stable economy and political structure, as well as its natural, unparalleled beauty and peaceful culture, it is no surprise Costa Rica is continually ranked as ‘one of the happiest places on Earth.’

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AXIOM FUNDAMENTALS FOR DEVELOPMENT

ENERGY Axiom is working closely with the Costa Rican government to develop new programs that will allow all common areas of its developments to run on solar power.

As a result, the company’s Élan at Ballena project will use solar energy to power common areas including swimming pools, elevators, exterior lighting, a commercial center, entry buildings and recreation pavilions. Additionally, Axiom is sparing no expense by opting to install highefficiency air conditioning systems in all of its units, ensuring a higher Seasonal Energy Efficient Ratio (SEER). Élan at Ballena’s insulated building materials and LED lighting further assist the cause, while sustainable design features, including the optimization of natural wind and sun patterns, also help to offset energy consumption.

Within the luxurious confines of Axiom’s multi-million dollar mountaintop estates in the Sierra Collection, solar energy technology has also been installed in order to

offset consumption from the grid for things like modern appliances and alarm systems. Axiom is raising the bar on sustainable living by incorporating contemporary comforts into environments where both man and nature can harmoniously co-exist. While history has left a wake of destruction in the path of man’s conquest of nature, Axiom’s extensive experience in sustainable development, and in Central America, is helping to strike a delicate balance along the Costa Ballena coast.

Within the parameters of that delicate balance, the company is employing painstaking measures to ensure the preservation of the natural beauty that brought us to Costa Rica in the first place, while disproving the misconception that sustainable living must be something less than luxurious.

WATER In the Costa Ballena region, Axiom embarked on a challenging vision, sparing no expense to develop land marked by difficult soil conditions, rugged terrain and strict government regulations. Along a unique stretch of Costa Rica’s Pacific coastline, where the mountains meet the sea, Mother Nature herself was already facing an environmental concern. As the rains flowed down the mountainside and across the coastal highway, contamination flowed naturally into streams and creeks that weave their way into the Pacific waters. One of the first projects set in motion by Axiom addressed that runoff issue through the installation of a stateof- the-art water treatment plant, which now purifies the waste water and has rectified the long-term threat.

Furthermore, while the purified water could be used for irrigation purposes, Axiom has also made conscious efforts to select and grow native flora for use within its development sites that will reduce the need for irrigation and sprinkler systems. In addressing the key issue of water procurement, purification and usage, Axiom also developed an aqueduct system that not only provides

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water to its own developments, but which also enhances the water systems of several surrounding communities.

The aqueduct brings water to the communities including homes, school, businesses, and government facilities. In the town of Uvita, the summer months have traditionally led to water shortages. The new aqueduct will not only address that issue, but it was built to sustain the future growth of the town for next five years with additional water sources and a 500,000 liter tank gravity feeding the town below.

Axiom Development Group also supports the initiatives of the Blue Flag Ecological Program, which was created in response to the imminent dangers of beach pollution, its repercussions on public health and the tourism industry.

The inter-institutional effort encourages participation from surrounding communities and local schools and fosters environmental education within Costa Rica’s coastal communities.

FLORA

Every Axiom project begins with sustainability as a core definition, and development does not begin until the functioning of the land is fully understood. As a result, Axiom has remained ahead of the curve with strategic planning initiatives that have already begun to bear fruit. Development of The Terraces at San Martin began with a strategic plan to designate preserve areas that would ensure the uninhibited view of the surrounding rainforest canopy and its fauna. The company also designated preserve lands within its own concession as a contribution to the valuable efforts of the Path of the Tapir biological corridor project. Élan at Ballena Beach community nestled between one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches and a national park has not only succeeded in preserving all existing trees on the site, but its own nursery of 25,000 indigenous plants is helping to enhance the future of delicate ecosystems that anchor

its surroundings. Included in the nursery are more than 1,000 trees, including hardwoods and other species that provide essential nutrients to surrounding fauna.

Through initiatives like the nursery at Élan at Ballena, the reach of Axiom’s strategic planning has extended to the beautification efforts of surrounding communities outside of its development zones, including the town of Uvita.

Axiom also donated 100 trees to Marino Ballena National Park earlier this year in conjunction with the reforestation efforts of Costa Rica’s Ministry of Environment, Energy and Telecommunications (MINAE). The donation will not only enhance the region’s overall regeneration process, but the 100 Mountain Almond trees form an important part of the natural habitat of the endangered great green macaw.

FAUNA Axiom Development Group has taken painstaking measures to ensure the integrity of the rainforest canopy on its development sites, which is an essential corridor for fauna and their natural feeding habits. The company has backed its commitment to the preservation and enhancement of the surrounding environment for fauna and flora through donations to the Corcovado Foundation, which provides local communities and citizens in the Costa Ballena region with a platform from which to address environmental concerns via the Amigos de Marino Ballena sub-foundation. Additional support has also been provided to initiatives such as the Blue Flag Ecological Program, which was created in response to the imminent dangers of beach pollution.

Axiom’s developments in the region also adhere to the standards of Dark Sky Compliance, ensuring the minimization of ambient light that can have a profound effect on local fauna, including nesting turtle behaviors along the beaches of the Costa Ballena shores. As turtles hatch, the hatchings instinctively follow the guiding light of shining stars and moonlight into the Pacific waters, whereas an abundance of inland light

COMMUNITY

From an industry perspective, Axiom Development Group is a member of the Green Building Council of Costa Rica (GBC-CR), an organization that supports sustainable development in the country. Beyond that mandate, members of the organization, like Axiom, foster cooperation and participation within the communities in which they build by promoting their social, economic, cultural and environmental development as a whole.

From conception, Axiom has designed a network of developments that will drive owners into the heart of local communities, where they will explore the culture and contribute to local economies. In building that network, Axiom has also provided hundreds of jobs to local residents who live in some of those very same

can establish a path of dangerous counter motion. To ensure that development is Dark Sky Compliant, all exterior lighting on Axiom sites has been established 3000 kelvin or below on the light spectrum. Building lights and sconces were specifically designed in order to reduce light pollution and the company also opted for low-voltage bollard lighting in lieu of overhead street lighting. Further reducing its impact on the surrounding environment, Axiom’s preservation of the surrounding rainforest canopy also contributes to the trapping of ambient light.

Axiom Development Group believes that beautiful places should remain beautiful forever, which requires development that is not only sustainable today, but also enhancing for tomorrow. To that end, the company continues to work closely with the Costa Rican government in order to develop new programs and initiatives that address the long-term health and preservation of a fragile bio-corridor.

communities.

Axiom also supports the Amigos de Marino Ballena Foundation (AMBF) and its efforts to ensure the protection of 5 national park beaches within Marino Ballena National Park. The AMBF empowers citizens in direct support of the park by enabling communities to develop projects that address the issues that most concern them.

The AMBF is a sub-platform of the Corcovado Foundation, a local non-profit organization dedicated to supporting projects that help protect the Osa Peninsula’s natural resources. In addition to monetary donations, Axiom also donated a boat trailer to AMBF in support of its operations.

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15 REASONS WHY TO INVEST IN

COSTA BALLENA FROM THE DAY THAT A NEW COASTAL HIGHWAY LIFTED THE VEIL ON COSTA RICA’S SOUTHWESTERN PACIFIC COAST, THE COSTA BALLENA REGION’S LUSH BEAUTY HAS BEEN CONJURING UP BOTH DREAMS AND REALITIES OF LIFE AMONG ITS SECLUDED BEACHES, LUSH RAINFOREST CANOPY AND COASTAL MOUNTAINS.

If you’re one of a growing number of visitors who are turning their dreams into reality, then here are 15 features to add to the equation when considering buying a home in Costa Rica’s beautiful Costa Ballena region: 1. With a challenging landscape and an undeveloped region, the most experienced builders have descended upon Costa Ballena to build high quality homes that seamlessly blend into the region’s pristine natural beauty.

2. Costa Ballena is a narrow stretch where Costa Rica’s mountains meet the Pacific Ocean, providing buyers with the best of all lifestyles, from beach proximity, to rainforest living and dramatic mountain vistas.

3. Costa Ballena offers Costa Rica’s best priced range of condominiums, villas, townhouses and luxury homes, at a fraction of Gold Coast prices further north.

4. Costa Rican real estate investments rose by 15-20% annually between 2000 and 2008 and Costa Ballena values are projected to rise rapidly over the next few years.

5. Rental income in Costa Rica is high and market demand in the Costa Ballena region currently exceeds supply.

6. The Costa Rican legal system protects investors, and real estate laws for foreigners are the same as for Costa Rican nationals. Fee simple ownership allows buyers to own, sell, lease or renovate their properties.

7. Costa Rica offers extremely low property tax rates starting at just 0.25%, and rising to only 0.50% for multi-million dollar homes.

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8. Costa Rica is an economically and politically stable country and is viewed by investors as one of the safest emerging real estate markets.

9. The Costa Ballena region gets far fewer visitors than other regions in Costa Rica and has embraced low-impact development excluding large resorts and high-rises.

10. Costa Ballena is nestled into the most bio-diverse region of Costa Rica.

11. Within close proximity of the U.S., Costa Ballena offers affordable luxury that would cost at least 10 times more along the California coastline.

12. Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Latin America and “Ticos” in the Costa Ballena region are educated, warm and welcoming. The region is also home to a large number of North American baby boomers and retirees.

13. Costa Ballena offers a diversity of breathtaking, unpopulated beaches that include whale-watching, surfing and plenty of warm water for bathers.

14. Legal residency can be obtained in just a few years, with temporary residency status afforded to those who apply. You can also live in Costa Rica as a non-resident and can remain in the country for up to 90 days at a time.

15. The Costa Ballena region offers reliable utility services, high-speed Internet and 3G cellphone service.

“Ballena� means whale in Spanish.

The Humpback Whales grace our shores 7 months out of the year, the longest resting time in their yearly migrations. The whales use our warm and inviting waters as a nursery for their young. Our naturally formed bays and shallow waters formed by tectonic upheaval create an ideal location for the little ones to play.

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GOLDEN SANDY BEACHES, ROCKY SHORELINES AND BEAUTIFUL CORAL REEFS ARE JUST A FEW OF THE REASONS WHY MA R INO BALLENA IS A NAT UR A L TREASURE OF THE REGION

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COSTA RICA’S FAMOUS WHALE TAIL

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MARINO BALLENA NATIONAL PARK An iconic natural paradise

This national park is one of the unique reserves in Costa Rica. Located just offshore and along the coast, the park protects more than 5,375 hectares of ocean and 110 hectares of land along 9 miles of coastline, including mangrove forests, coral reefs and beaches. It was declared a national park in 1898, and although it is home to the famous isthmus shaped like a whale’s tail, it was named for the humpback whales that migrate here each year. Humpback Whales are in fact found in these

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waters for most of the year because the park benefits from 2 migrations.

Whales come from Alaska to the region from December to April, and from Antarctica from August to November, making it one of the worlds best places to go whale-watching. Along with humpback whales, there are 85 other species endemic to the waters of this area.

The landscape of the park varies considerably depending on when you visit.

In the morning, the mangroves come alive with the call of birds and the replenishing eucalyptus forest creates amazing colors. In the evening around sunset, scarlet macaws can be found in pairs in the trees, and monkeys regularly stop by.

On the beach, high tide brings with it waves and an active beach that is great for playing in the surf. If the surf becomes a little rough for you, small swimming holes created by the currents are calmer and safer for the less experienced swimmers. At low tide, the beaches transform into an expansive area to explore, and exposes the Punta Uvita Tombola — the Whale’s Tail. Stretching out into the ocean for about a mile, the Whale’s Tail is a natural barrier reef that was created by the forces of two rivers on either side of the reef. Along with a great place to explore the beach and take in some incredible views of the mountains, the Whale’s Tail is also perfect for snorkeling. The four main beaches of the park – Playa Bahia Ballena, Playa Pinuela, Playa Colonia and Playa Uvita are usually fairly deserted, making them serene and peaceful shorelines to explore.

Offshore, the largest coral reef on the Pacific Coast of Central America forms a crescent necklace with the three small islands known as Las Tres Hermanas, (The Three Sisters) with Ballena island as the centerpiece. The coral reef contains 18 coral species, making it one of the largest collections of coral in Costa Rica, including Stony Coral, Cauliflower Coral and Star Column Coral. Boat tours are available to Ballena Island, giving you the perfect opportunity divers and snorkelers to observe a plethora of marine life and explore the phenomenal ocean floor below. Along with humpback whales, olive ridley sea turtles, bottle-nose dolphins, sharks, starfish, false orcas, green iguanas, leatherback turtles and Bryde’s whales are common sights. Olive ridley and hawksbill sea turtles also nest along the shores of Playa Bahia Ballena between May and November.

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Q

A NEW WAY TO DESIGN Q&A WITH BLAKE DELATTE, THE CREATING BEHIND THE SCENES

Q. As one of the founders of Axiom Development Group,

you’ve

worked

on luxury residential, high-rise condos, master-planned resorts; even some commercial and institutional projects. Do you have a favorite, and what would you like to do more of?

A. I’d have to say that they are all special.

Each has a special location, and a different set of challenges and opportunities. Because of this, every home, resort, or school becomes my child. They have my heart and soul and I want them to be the best they can be, and I become very attached to each of them and that’s why I just can’t pick a favorite.

Q. You’ve worked in North America, Asia and across Central America. Does the process of designing differ much between countries and cultures, and does it affect your design philosophy and process?

A. I believe design solutions have to respond to environmental context like culture, physical location, the ecosystem, technical and materials restrictions and of course the client’s vision. While the process is the same for each part of the world, because each condition is so specific, the design solution is unique. I would say that where a project is located in the world is less important than the factors that affect the immediate surroundings of the project. So while my design philosophy and process are the same, the outcome is unique to that specific project and client.

Q. Each of Axiom’s projects in Costa Rica is very different in terms of scale, home type and location. Was there an overall design vision for Élan at Ballena Beach, The Terraces at San Martín, Dulce Pacífico, and The Sierra Collection?

Or did you approach each of them independently and very separately?

A. Because all four of these projects are part of the same vision, there are naturally some aesthetic values that are seen in each of the projects. But because each is in a very different environment with their own very specific opportunities, my response was to combine an overall design vision to allow each community to develop its own character and distinctive style.

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Q. What were the biggest challenges, and design opportunities in creating four distinct projects concurrently?

A. One of the biggest challenges was the design vision of Axiom having extremely high standards and deciding from the beginning that we would not cut corners, that every one of the communities was going to be the best that it could possibly be. If I had to choose only one opportunity for each project, it would be the location for each of the projects. From one of the best beaches in Costa Rica, to spectacular terraced rainforest, and of course the mountaintop setting of the Sierra Collection. From a design point of view, each location provides tremendous opportunities to create incredible homes that are distinct because of their setting.

Q. Élan at Ballena Beach, The Terraces at San Martín, Dulce Pacífico, and The Sierra Collection are all in very special locations. How did this affect your design vision?

A. If you look at the four locations of the current communities, they follow the ecosystem down from the mountains to the ocean, and that was a primary inspiration for each of the communities. The Sierra Collection is above the forest on the mountains, and each home reflects the wide open spaces and panoramas that surround it. Midway down the mountain, The Terraces at San Martín and Dulce Pacífico is nestled in the rainforest, and the homes were inspired by tree houses, with decks on the upper floors opening onto the canopy of the forest, and lower pool decks interfacing directly with the lush plants of Costa Rica. Down on the coastline, where the forest meets the ocean is Élan at Ballena Beach. Because Élan is not a view property, but right next to the beach, within a unique biological corridor, and a marine national park, we were able to create a very special collection of homes that took advantage of being in its own special environment.

While the design visions for each project have their differences, they are all focused on taking advantage of the natural world around them.

Q. Preservation of the environment is fundamental to Costa Rica and it’s also a key philosophy in how you design.

How did you approach the integration of architecture into the environment for these projects?

A. From a design philosophy point of view, sustainability and “green design” are not something we do because they are popular.

Because of where we live, and our lifelong appreciation of the natural world around us, everything we do is focused on preserving the environment and mitigating damage to the sites we build on. As a landscape architect preserving and protecting the ecology on and around our projects is second nature to us. We are also not naive to the fact that we are building homes, and we understand that any kind of construction has an impact. But it is how much we can mitigate changing the landscape that makes the biggest difference, and because one of our fundamental objectives in designing these homes is the integration of home and nature, we change as little as possible, and then actively regenerate the site with the native species that were on the site before we began.

Q. What do you feel is the greatest challenge when it comes to designing for environmental sustainability?

A. I believe that if you don’t think of sustainability as a natural way to design and build, it can be a challenge. But if your objective is to create homes and projects that are naturally integrated into the landscape, the idea of environmental sustainability becomes an opportunity to take advantage of as much as possible. Because the environment is not an afterthought, each of the projects has been approached very differently in terms of sustainability. For instance, the air-conditioning systems and passive ventilation designs we use in each of the four communities is very different. From the high altitude of The Sierra Collection, to the humidity around the homes on the coastline, each system has been specifically selected and optimized to provide the best performance while being as efficient as possible.

Q.

Being a accomplished landscape architect. How did this influence your work?

A.

This has influenced these projects tremendously. Working with a very diverse development team and having a grasp on architecture and design process has been a value. This has resulted in every home in each of our communities being specifically created for that environment.

“GREEN DESIGN IS NOT SOMETHING WE DO BECAUSE IT’S POPULAR”

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SIERRA COLLECTION | MERIDIAN HOUSE

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SIERRA COLLECTION

We co-create with our clients to bring their dream to life one brick at a time. Our team has selected

the most prestigious

properties in the region with iconic views and natural features ripe to develop homes, which take advantage of every angle. Come create your vision of paradise with us.

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SIERRA COLLECTION CHĂ‚TEAU MONTAGE

Endless azure blues of the Pacific stretch out before you, and lush emeralds from the Sierra’s terrace down to the valley behind you - these are the endless vistas that greet your every turn in the Sierra

architecture, the spacious living spaces blur the lines between interior and exterior living spaces, allowing light mountain breezes to move through every room, naturally cooling the homes throughout the

Collection. Set perfectly on the ridge line of a spectacular Costa Rican coastal mountain, the panoramic views from this magnificent retreat are a jewel unto themselves. Contemporary, open and transparent, the Sierra Collection complements its surroundings with a design that allows you to open the homes and invite the incredible views into the living spaces through panoramic sliding window walls. Through the commanding position on the ridge, and the subtle cantilevered

day for a truly natural living experience.

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Set within the Costa Verde gated community, these estate homes also have access to all the amenities and features of this exclusive community, including walking trails, parks, tennis courts, swimming pools, fitness facilities, the Costa Verde clubhouse, and heliport.

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Each design in Axiom’s Sierra Collection has been groomed to fit cohesively with its ecological settings and cascading elevations.

Sierra Collection homes are set within 1,250 acres exclusively reserved for single-family estates bordering rainforest preserves and an extensive trail system. Château Montage offers the coveted kind of seclusion that puts you in harmony with your surrounding environment. At every glance, life from within the contemporary and transparent home offers breathtaking views courtesy of floor-toceiling windows and sliding glass doors. The Pacific coastline below greets you each morning from expansive windows, while the back of the home overlooks the mountain range valley and rainforest life truly bring in the best of two worlds. Every day begins with a deep breath of nature.

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HEAVEN ON EARTH

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CHÂTEAU MONTAGE Perched on the peak of the Sierra Costera mountain, Château Montage is an exclusively luxurious retreat unlike any other. With gently cascading slopes on every side, your panoramic views from this expansive enclave encompass tropical valleys and distant waterfalls, and the endless Pacific that stretches down along the spectacular white sands of the Costa Rican coastline. Mirroring its magnificent setting, Château Montage’s expansive living spaces have been designed to form distinctly intimate experiences, each designed to make the most of the luxuries this home and its location have to offer. From wrap-around terraces and rooftop decks for entertaining, to secluded private pools to take in the magnificent sunsets, Château Montage gives you the ultimate in elevated living.

Set within the Costa Verde gated community, this estate home also has access to all the amenities and features of this exclusive community, including walking trails, parks, tennis courts, swimming pools, fitness facilities, the Costa Verde clubhouse, and heliport.

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General features and amenities • Reinforced concrete post and beams

• Daikin multi-zoned central A/C system

• Structural, insulated panel exterior and interior walls

• Control Four™ smart home features include integrated blinds,

• Contemporary flat clay tile roofs • Solar energy grid tieback system consisting of 75 miniinverter panels to offset the majority of electricity costs • Home situated on east-west axis to minimize direct sun exposure and maximize cross-ventilation along prevailing wind patterns • High, vaulted ceilings • Recessed automated blinds • Custom Fleetwood™ windows and sliding glass doors with double-pane argon-filled glass, precision aluminum frames and Mammoth™ rollers for ease of sliding.

• Solid wood custom-made interior doors • Gres porcelain tile flooring imported from Italy • Ceiling fans in all rooms and outdoor areas

lighting, music, televisions, all of which can be controlled via smart phone, tablet or computer.

• State-of-the-art sound system with surround-sound home theater in living room and Klipsch™ recessed ceilingmounted directional speakers throughout the common areas • Fully wired alarm system with motion sensor and smoke detector • High-speed fiber-optic internet with comprehensive mesh system that covers the entire property • Mature landscape design featuring native species that attract butterfly and bird species • Private orchard with exotic fruit trees: Water Apple, Cashew, Yuplon, Zapote, Guanabana, Mango, Mandarina Pulse, Rambutan, Acerola, Jaboticaba and Mangustan

• Recessed par-20 LED lighting throughout the residence

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Château Montage is truly king of the hill with commanding views of Costa Ballena. The home is designed to take advantage of all the natural focal points from every space of the home. The western view over the pacific ocean unveils the entire coastline from the famous whale’s tail to the Osa Peninsula. As your eye travels around to the east over undulating jungle clad mountains Diamonte Cascades, the tallest waterfall in the country. These icons of the natural create a balance between the land and sea.

SIERRA COLLECTION | CHÂTEAU MONTAGE

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CHÂTEAU MONTAGE | MAIN HOUSE BEDROOMS:

4

BATHROOMS: 6 INTERIOR:

8,751 SQ. FT. | 813 M 2

TERRACES:

10,131 SQ. FT. | 941 M 2

TOTAL:

18,882 SQ. FT. | 1,754 M 2

LOT:

177,605 SQ. FT. | 16,500 M 2

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SIERRA COLLECTION

SIERRA COLLECTION | CHATEAU MONTAGE

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CHÂTEAU MONTAGE | MAIN HOUSE BEDROOMS:

4

BATHROOMS: 6 INTERIOR:

8,751 SQ. FT. | 813 M 2

TERRACES:

10,131 SQ. FT. | 941 M 2

TOTAL:

18,882 SQ. FT. | 1,754 M 2

LOT:

177,605 SQ. FT. | 16,500 M 2

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SIERRA COLLECTION

SIERRA COLLECTION | CHÂTEAU MONTAGE

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CHÂTEAU MONTAGE | APARTMENT & GUEST HOUSE BEDROOMS:

4

BATHROOMS: 6 INTERIOR:

8,751 SQ. FT. | 813 M 2

TERRACES:

10,131 SQ. FT. | 941 M 2

TOTAL:

18,882 SQ. FT. | 1,754 M 2

LOT:

177,605 SQ. FT. | 16,500 M 2

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SIERRA COLLECTION

SIERRA COLLECTION | CHÂTEAU MONTAGE

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SIERRA COLLECTION CASA ARCO WATER AND EARTH IN BALANCE.

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CASA ARCO Casa Acro is the next in the line of unique homes designed to bring you to nature.

Clean

lines

and

open

spaces

provide

windows to the jungle clad coastline of Osa and the tallest waterfall in Costa Rica.

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CASA ARCO 37

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CASA ARCO 39

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CASA ARCO 41

NURTURING YOUR INVESTMENT FULL IN-HOUSE PROPERTY AND RENTAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES We offer a full range of property management services tailored to you as an investor or homeowner. At Destination Homes Costa Rica we believe in integrity and accountability. When investing with Axiom you become part of the family. We want to make sure you are supported in every way whether you are transitioning to live in Costa Rica or if your plan is to generate income to grow your investment.

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Our property management services include Comprehensive, marketing-focused management fee – Our management fee is comprehensive and competitively priced, and we reinvest in your home each year with our extensive marketing plan. If you are new to renting your home, we can also help arrange the permits and details required to set up your property.

Innovative technology – We automatically optimize rates year-round, not only green and dry season, ensuring that your home is truly maximizing its potential in terms of occupancy and income. We also conduct in-depth analysis of every property: if a home is under performing, we find out why, and we solve the challenge.

Flexible owner use – At Destination Homes Costa Rica, we realize the reason you purchased a vacation home was so that you could enjoy it. For this simple reason – unlike many of our competitors – we don’t impose strict limits on when you can vacation in your own home.

Industry-leading reservations team – Our reservations team, located in your community, is available every day and they are the best in the business. Our extensive training process equips our staff to convert inquiries into bookings, carefully screen travelers, and troubleshoot issues with current guests, minimizing unnecessary maintenance charges.

A strong local presence – We have a manager on call, 7 days per week, we have a strong local team of reservations, housekeepers, handymen, and other service providers. If a problem arises, our on-call manager will work with his team to solve the issue.

Exceptional housekeepers – We believe housekeepers are truly the backbone of our company, and a key ingredient in a positive guest experience. We hire the best housekeepers, and we retain them by offering a year-round living wage and plenty of advancement opportunities in an industry known for its seasonal fluctuations.

No long-term contracts – We believe in the services we offer as we provide excellent services and financial results. We do not lock our clients into long-term agreements.

If you aren’t happy with our performance, you can choose to stop renting your home at any time. We ask only that existing reservations be honored in consideration of our guests.

Hire local, spend local, grow local – As our business grows, so does our commitment to reinvest in the Costa Ballena area. In addition to creating jobs for local residents, we cultivate partnerships with local businesses, sponsor community events, and work with area organizations to promote tourism and economic growth.

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Costa Rica + 506.4001.2343 United States + 1.786.233.1579 171 KM Route 34 | Uvita, Costa Rica BLACK LOGO 100% BLACK

info@axiomcostarica.com | axiomcostarica.com

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