1. Home
  2. Dream Houses

Ethos House: Modern Brutalist Architecture at its Sustainable Best

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

Sherry Nothingam

Sherry is a blogger who loves to live her life to the fullest. She enjoys everything associated with design, décor and stylish modern trends. Born in California, Sherry has grown up on open ranches and in a wild setting, which has defined her taste for design and developed her interest in examining how structures and homes interact with the beauti[...]

You might also like