LA GAUCHITA_VS_FIRST DELIVERY

LA GAUCHITA

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY: THE CONSTRUCTION PLANS, DESIGN AND THE TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS IN TOTAL AND PARTIAL FORM, ARE PROTECTED BY WHAT ARTICLE 8 OF THE REGULATION FOR THE CONTRACTING OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE SERVICES OF THE C.F.I.A. THE ORIGINAL DRAWINGS AND DOCUMENTS ARE THE EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OF THE AUTHOR, THE CUSTOMER MAY KEEP COPIES OF THESE AND OTHER DOCUMENTS, WELL UNDERSTOOD THAT THEY WILL USE THEM ONLY, IN EVERYTHING CONCERNING THE WORK DEFINED IN THE CONTRACT, IT WILL BE MANDATORY TO USE ALL PRET A PART OR THE WHOLE OF A PROJECT, COMMUNICATE IT IN WRITING TO ITS INTELLECTUAL AUTHOR BEFORE USING IT.

/ PROPOSAL 04 / CASE STUDIES 05

Concept

Architecture of Cycles STEPS BY STEP

Located in Emerald Woods of Guanacaste Province, the 350 acre site has been a traditional Costa Rican finca for decades. The topography is varied from valleys, plains, rivers with look out points capturing 360 degree vistas of surrounding mountain ranges.

Guanacaste’s climate and culture are unique among Costa Rican provinces. The province experiences little rain and consistent heat from November to April, resulting in ubiquitous tropical dry forests as a natural adaption to the dry season conditions. Tourists seek out this dry heat during the North American winter to enjoy the Guanacastecan beaches. Irrigation of the agricultural land is necessary during the long dry period. From May to October, the climate is similar to that of San José, consisting of showers daily and moderate temperatures. Guanacaste is, however, considerably warmer than other provinces in the country located in higher elevations.

The Guanacaste province is famous for its spectacular beaches in the Pacific coast with more than 125 miles of extension and also for its high quality cattle ranching production.

The province is bounded on the east by a group of green-swathed volcanoes forming the Cordillera de Guanacaste and the Cordillerade Tilarán. The rivers that tumble out of these steep mountains flow down to rolling flatlands, forming a vast alluvial plain drained by the Rio Tempisque, which empties through swampy wetlands into de Golfo de Nicoya. The Rio Tempisque defines one side of the horsehead-shaped Península de Nicoya enclosing the gulf to the west.

MACRO / THE POTENTIAL

This priviledged site, sits in between two touristic coastal towns, Nosara and Tamarindo. The Marbella area is known for its peaceful ambience, great scenic views, and its proximity to Ostional, a local town famous for being a turtle spawning location. Marbella is accesed by national route 160 and estimated times from nearby locations can lower due to road improvements.

30 KM TO MARBELLA

40 KM TO MARBELLA

MESO / THE CONECTIONS

The town of Marbella is a small but high spirited settlement inmersed in the rich natural environment of Guanacaste, between ocean and mountains. This condition, allows properties like this, to hold both the beauty of the tropical forest and prime views of the ocean, while remaining close to the nearby beach town.

The national route results in a linear configuration of town, where most services and local landmarks, like educational and health facilities, restaurants and small hotels are easily accesible via the main road. Located at no more than 10 minutes from the project.

MICRO / THE SITE

Hectares of Property

Hectares Of Tropical Forest

The property is runned by a green belt that responds to the main creeks found on site. In between this forest areas, open pockets of land are suitable for hospitality and residence programs connected to the forest.

LA GAUCHITA

After a long conversation with Mr. José Andrés Gutiérrez, who has overseen and cared for the well-being of the farm for more than 50 years. He told us the history of the “Finca la Gauchita”. Mr. Andrés told us how in 1974 he arrived at this farm, its former owner was a Costarican doctor, Dr. Blanco. Wild and unexplored, the property had no electricity, until approximately 10 years ago.

At that time, the Gutiérrez family planted for daily consumption like: corn, beans, pipian, cuadrados, bananas, cassava and squash. Today we can see how the tradition of planting has been lost and the only thing that remains is the mango, the pipe and the avocado trees.

Getting to “Finca la Gauchita” has been a journey since its inception, they tell us that it was reached by cart, on horseback or on foot. Above all, in winter the road puts its visitors to the test, so the experience of arriving at this place is part of its attraction.

In this natural treasure there are several fruit trees and timber species, such as: pochote, cedar and teak. In fact, since its inception, the doctor planted a teak forest for its exploitation and sale.

In this conversation with Mr. José and his family, we were able to meet his neighbor “Sadi” and talk about his other neighbor the “Chaman”, who has cattle or rents the land for livestock purposes. We were able to appreciate the good relationship that exists between the neighbors and the sense of community that they have created over time.

On the other hand, the Guitiérrez family is concerned about how security in the nearby area has changed over the years, as well as the incipient gentrification that can be seen in the surrounding area due to the massive real estate and tourist development near the beach of Marbella and Nosara.

The original lot division was born due to the need to graze the fattening bulls they had on the farm. They also had a few animals such as cattle and sheep. Today, only a few horses, chickens and cows remain.

This lotification gave rise to names with a symbolic character. A character that was based on elements of nature, fauna and even physical elements such as the neighbors to name the extensive plots. These elements were of great importance to the doctor, who saw in each one a unique quality and meaning.

The names tell a story and give a sense of place of what happened years ago on the farm. A history of which today only a few traces remain in the “Finca la Gauchita”.

WATER TANK

CREEK HOUSE

HISTORY / Highlight moments

Arrival and purchase at Finca la Gauchita.

Subdivision of the farm with a symbolic character. Introduction planting of

of bulls and fruit trees.

Creation of the teak forest and general maintenance of the farm in its current state.

Arrival of electricity to the farm, finally, sale of the farm and its current state.

The visioning session allows us to connect with the project DNA, its necessities, strenghts and challenges. A better understanding of the project’s core values will lead to a stronger design aproach.

POSSITIVE CHANGE MAKERS

PROJECT’S SUCCESS

LANDSCAPE REGENERATION SELF

CONNECTION WITH LOCAL COMMUNITY

100 IDEAS

Outdoor yoga and walking tours

Plant based cuisine

Gastronomical journey

SPORTS CENTER

FIRE PIT

Sonic experiences

Local and natural materials

HOTEL AND SPA

Architecture merge with the landscape

100 IDEAS

RETREAT HEALING CENTER

YOGA + MEDITATION PAVILIONS

BOUTIQUE HOTEL

YOGA

Farm to table restaurants

TEMAZCAL

CLUB HOUSE

GYM

SOLAR PANELS

experiences

BEACH CLUB

AMPHITHEATER

IDEAS

Culinary workshops

POOL

TRAILS

GIFT ELECTRIC GOLF CARTS TO EACH OWNER

FOOD IS MEDICINE

JUNGLE GYM

FARM TO TABLE

GARDEN AND RESTAURANT

YOGA SHALA

RUNNING + EXERCISE

SOCCER + TENNIS

Regenerate the soil

Natural and regenerative farming

Inmersive experiences

Passive estrategies

The following site analysis shows the great variety of natural conditions found on site. The creeks cross it form west and north to east and south creating very dense forest belts, At the same time extense open hills give way to more dramatic views. Water flows in the property follow an often broken topography leaing it to its core, the green axis and reserves where waterfalls and natural ponds can be found. The region is known for high temperatures almost year round, however the many trees give shade at important locations, while also redirecting wind that comes from the south west into the hills and plains of the property.

/ SITE ANALYSIS

WATER TANK

03 / SITE ANALYSIS PRE / NATURAL RESERVE

WATER WELLS

22.0

ha Reserve 38.4 of the 135 ha to natural reserve 29% ha Common space + Road + non specified areas

WATER FALL

WATER FALL

SITE / VIEWS

Ocean Views Jungle Views

03 / SITE ANALYSIS SITE / WATER RUN OFF

The direction of the water run off predominates in the course of the two creeks on the lot, which also, coincides with the areas of the steepest slope. This can give us an index of where can be the best areas for the location of the residences and other programs. The steepest areas can be reserved for forest restoration and trails and viewpoints that can be integrated to the creek, creating year round experiences.

WATER WELLS

WATER FALL

WATER FALL

SITE / SLOPE

This are the flatest areas on the lot, with a slope between 0 and 20%. The lot has 27 ha of land (20% of the land) with this topography.

This correspond to the areas with a slope between 20 and 40%. The lot has 60 ha of land (45% of the land) with this topography. This correspond to the steepest areas, with a slope of 40% and more. The lot has 48 ha of land (35% of the land) with this topography.

SITE / WIND

The winds with the highest speeds come from the southwest and east, this is because the direction to the ocean is located here. It can also be noted that the other prevailing winds are in a southeasterly direction. On the other hand, it can be noted that the wind is almost zero in the northwest direction and very little in the northeast direction. It should be considered that the topography and vegetation will play an important role in how this wind flows on the ground, therefore it should be played with as a strategy for the location of the architecture.

Continuing with the solar route in Costa Rica, it can be noted that the predominance of sunlight will be with an inclination to the south in older months, due to which the passive strategies applied to the location and the architecture itself, as well as the vegetation; should be considered based on the above. It should also be noted that, to the west, which is where the sunset occurs, there are some of the best views of the land.

Our vision for La Gauchita-Marbella is to create a sustainable and sensory productive landscape where every space and area proposed maintains a profound connection with the natural features of the territory and helps create a sense of community. We aim to break the usual separation between the functionality of the landscape and its aesthetic and poetic qualities, creating a project that is both a productive farm and a unique experience for residents and visitors. That is to say, that in a way it exalts the imaginable, the sensory, and the experiential potential; what does this place makes us feel deep within? How it inspires us and how we heal together with this land? The project should acknowledge the reciprocal relationship between humans and territory. We should recognize the role that we play in shaping the landscape, but also acknowledge the impact that the landscape has on us. This close connection provides the guidelines for the masterplan proposal. First, a green axis with both environmental and recreative programs connects the whole project. Then, the residential, hospitality and wellness focused programs are arrenged around or within it, sharing both the best views to the ocean, and the connection to the forest.

ARCHITECTURE OF CYCLES

Our concept is deeply based on the architecture of cycles, uniting both the natural and built environment. Our proposal aims to establish a symbiotic relationship between different species of flora and fauna, with the goal of enhancing biodiversity and promoting human and environmental health.

By creating a self-sustaining cycle that encompasses the roots, ecosystem, and community, we can develop a harmonious coexistence with the natural world. In doing so, we can harness the power of natural elements such as color, texture, and healing properties to guide us in inhabiting the landscape in a respectful and sustainable way. Through our interventions, we aim to stimulate the earth’s regenerative capacity, thus creating a virtuous cycle of renewal and restoration that will benefit both current and future generations.

REGENERATION POTENTIAL

CREATING COMMUNITY

EXPERIENCE AND HEALING

REGENERATION

Heal a landscape that has been historically used for farming and agricultural activities, while also mantaining its functionality. Exalt the green axis as the project’s core and main connection between all other programs.

Landscape / corridor for the community

Stakeholders: Porvenir+Void

PROPOSED PROGRAM

FOOD FOREST

EDIBLE GARDENS

HIKING-WALKING TRAILS

HANGING BRIDGES

BIRDWATCHING SPOTS

WATER BODIES

NATURAL POOLS

RIVER FISHING VIEWPOINTS

MEDITATION SPACES

WORKING OUT STATIONS

POTENTIAL

Expanding the green axis according to the terrain’s topographic characterisitics.

Prioritize the ocean and jungle views in the project’s design to ensure a strong connection with the local landscape.

Stakeholders: Void

PROPOSED PROGRAM

GREAT VIEWS ARE POTENTIAL SPACES FOR BOTH RESIDENTIAL, COMMUNITY, AND HOSPITALITY SPACES.

04 / BUILDING COMMUNITIES

How do we create community?

•As nearly as possible, use natural geographic and historical boundaries to mark the communities.

How do we create the community boundary?

•Give the community the power to initiate, decide and execute the affairs that concern it closely, like: land use, house, maintenance, circulation, green areas, security, education, welfare and neighborhood services.

•The mosaic of subcultures requires hundreds of different cultures to live in their own way. But subcultures have their own ecology. They are physically separated by physical boundaries (a pattern of opportunities).

•The boundary can be natural (wilderness, farmland, water), man-made (railroads, major roads, parks, schools, housing), building meeting places, shared functions and touching communities.

How do we identify a neighborhood?

•People need an identifiable spatial unit to belong to.

•The community and the mosaic of subcultures are made up of neighborhoods. With patterns we can define the neighborhood.

•In existing cities, encourage local groups to organize themselves to form such neighborhoods. Give them some autonomy.

How do we define a neighborhood boundary?

•The strength of the boundary is essential to a neighborhood. If the boundary is too weak the neighborhood will not be able to maintain its own identifiable character.

•Encourage the formation of a boundary around each neighborhood, to separate each one. .

04 / NEIGHBORHOOD PATTERS

The cell

•The strength of the boundary is essential to a neighborhood. If the boundary is too weak the neighborhood will not be able to maintain its own identifiable character.

•Divide inside from outside, but a coherent entity, which preserves the functional integrity of the cell and provides for a multitude of transactions between the cell and the exterior (ambient fluids).

Overlapping

•On the other hand, must be taken too tight or self-contained. They endedness and overlapping

•The cluster needs a circulation a cyclically as a loop, from beginning interconnections between

Overlapping clusters

taken not to make the clusters They need to be some open overlapping among clusters. circulation to connect continuously beginning to end that allows between the cluster.

Degrees of publicness

•People are different, and the way they want to place their house in a neighborhood is one of the most basic kinds of difference.

•Make a clear distinction between the three kinds of possible lots. Those on quiet backwaters, those on busy streets, and those that are more or less in between. Give every neighborhood about equal numbers of these three kinds of lots.

CREATING COMMUNITY

Find and propose organizationals patterns that enchance community living in the project.

Stakeholders: Community+Void

EXPERIENCE AND HEALING

Expand this natural green axis in a way that is both a functional food forest and a recreational experience.

Create a living experience inmersed in the sensory and emotional characters of the natural environment, one that understands the reciprocal healing process between all living beings.

Stakeholders: Void

RESIDENTIAL COMMON

SHARED KITCHEN-BBQ POOLS

VIEWPOINTS

COMMUNITY VILLAGE

FARM

FARM INNOVATION LAB

FARM TO TABLE REST.

GATHERING PLAZA

ARTS AND CULTURE

PAVILION

HOSPITALITY

BOUTIQUE HOTEL

GASTRONOMY

HOTEL POOLS

SPA AND WELLNESS

YOGA SPACES

VIEWPOINTS

CLUSTER LOTS A

CLUSTER LOTS B

CLUSTER LOTS C

CLUSTER LOTS D

/ CASE STUDIES

POST RANCH INN

POST RANCH INN

Location: Big Sur, USA

FEATURES TO HIGHLIGHT

Landscape architecture rop

ECONOMIC AND ENVIROMENTAL

SUSTAINABILITY

No tv, no alarms. Reconection to self, others and nature

Edible garden tour

Lifted construction to protect the trees roots

Farm to table restaurant

Spa and wellness

Healing arts

Meditation

Outdoor yoga and walking tours

90% of the land : protected area

Subsidized housing is provided for many employees

Solar panel energy

FIVELEMENTS RETREAT

Gastronomy / Traditional culture

FIVELEMENTS RETREAT

Location:

Mambal, Indonesia

FEATURES TO HIGHLIGHT

Next to Ayung River

Views - incorporation of spaces close to the river

ECONOMIC AND ENVIROMENTAL

SUSTAINABILITY

Recycle rain and waste water on site

Healing and wellnes spired on ancient balinese therapies

Local, seasonal ingredients. Support local farmers

-

gastronomical journey aimed to nurture body, mind and soul

Culinary workshops Architecture merge with the river , the landscape

Plant based cuisine Local and natural materials

25% of the property: gardens

HACIENDA ALSACIA / STARBUCKS

Agroturism / Social economic

HACIENDA ALSACIA

Location:

Poás, Alajuela, Costa Rica

FEATURES TO HIGHLIGHT

240 ha coffee farm

ECONOMIC AND ENVIROMENTAL

SUSTAINABILITY

rop

Regenerate the soil before cultivate the coffee

10 ha dedicated to in novate and research and development

Shared the research small farmers to help their production and busineses

Sonic experience

waterfall closeness

Stunning mountain and cooffee farm views

Inmersive experience of the coffee tour.

Turistic atraction

Social and educational programs for local and indeginous coffee harvesters

I PINI Agroturism / Sustainability

Location: Tuscany, Italy

FEATURES TO HIGHLIGHT

Vineyard. Vegan and chemical free production. Involving guests in vineyard activities

ECONOMIC AND ENVIROMENTAL

SUSTAINABILITY

Natural and regenerative farming. Cycle of the seasons

Edible food forest

Farm to table restaurant

Plant based cuisine

Organic olive oil production

Breathtaking views

Veg lab: Space for enhance creativity and meeting like minded people

Natural material for construction. Stones, bricks and handmade tiles

Use of natural fibers

Passive estrategies. Vents for reducing ac.

CANDELA TULUM

Agroturism / Sustainability

CANDELA TULUM

Location:

Tulum, Mexico

FEATURES TO HIGHLIGHT

Open views to the jungle

ECONOMIC AND ENVIROMENTAL

SUSTAINABILITY

rop

70% of the land is being preserved

Architecture inspired on ancient Mayan settlement

Organic communal gardens

LUUM ZAMA

Agroturism / Sustainability

LUUM ZAMA

Location:

Tulum, Mexico

FEATURES TO

HIGHLIGHT

Spa + temazcal

ECONOMIC AND ENVIROMENTAL

SUSTAINABILITY

rop

Preserve the site trees

Ourdoor gym + Yoga palapa

Bamboo farmed localy in Chiapas

60% of the land is being preserved