Architectural Cases

Casa Cinco 7: A Coastal Retreat in Nosara, Costa Rica

Casa Cinco 7, designed by QBO3 Arquitectos, exemplifies a harmonious fusion of innovative design and the stunning natural beauty of Costa Rica's Nosara region. Situated on an elevated site, the residence maximizes breathtaking views of the tropical landscape and the distant horizon, which served as a primary inspiration for the architectural composition. This 600 square meter dwelling, completed in 2024 under the leadership of Mario Vargas, represents a modern approach to coastal living, seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor spaces to create a tranquil retreat.

The design strategy for Casa Cinco 7 focuses on creating a profound connection with its environment. The architectural form is a direct response to the unique hillside topography, employing precise geometric principles to frame the expansive vistas. The selection of materials and the overall structural integrity reflect a commitment to both aesthetics and functionality within a tropical climate. The house stands as a testament to thoughtful site planning and a deep appreciation for the surrounding ecosystem, offering residents a serene and immersive experience of the Costa Rican coast.

Architectural Harmony with the Tropical Landscape

The design of Casa Cinco 7 by QBO3 Arquitectos is deeply influenced by its spectacular location on a hillside overlooking the tropical environment of Nosara, Costa Rica. This 600 square meter residence, finalized in 2024, was conceived to fully embrace and highlight its privileged setting. The horizon, rather than just being a distant backdrop, is intricately woven into the very fabric of the architecture, serving as a fundamental element that shaped the building's orientation and spatial organization. The careful integration of the natural vista ensures that residents constantly experience a dialogue between the built environment and the lush surroundings.

Led by Mario Vargas, the architectural team meticulously crafted a structure that not only provides comfortable living spaces but also enhances the perception of openness and connection to nature. Every aspect, from the placement of windows to the layout of terraces, is designed to capture and amplify the stunning panoramic views. The project stands as a testament to QBO3 Arquitectos' ability to blend modern architectural principles with the inherent beauty of the Costa Rican landscape, creating a home that is both aesthetically striking and functionally aligned with its natural context.

Integrating the Horizon: A Defining Design Principle

Casa Cinco 7 represents a distinctive architectural achievement, strategically positioned on a Nosara hillside to maximize its connection with the tropical horizon. This 2024 project by QBO3 Arquitectos, covering 600 square meters, was meticulously planned to integrate the sweeping coastal views into its core design. The primary objective was to create a living space where the boundary between indoors and outdoors is blurred, allowing the natural landscape to become an integral part of the home's identity. This concept is evident in the expansive openings and thoughtful placement of living areas, all oriented to capture the majestic scenery.

The precise geometric design of the house, overseen by lead architect Mario Vargas, is a direct response to the site's unique attributes, ensuring optimal light, ventilation, and, most importantly, unobstructed views. The interplay of form and function results in a residence that feels both grand and intimately connected to its surroundings. Through this thoughtful approach, Casa Cinco 7 not only offers a luxurious dwelling but also provides a dynamic living experience that continuously celebrates the beauty of its Costa Rican setting, solidifying its place as an exemplar of contemporary tropical architecture.

Mitte Oblique Garden: Reshaping Urban Living in Jakarta

The Mitte Oblique Garden project represents a bold architectural endeavor by RAD+ar (Research Artistic Design + architecture), envisioning a fresh paradigm for urban structures in Jakarta. This initiative deliberately blurs the traditional boundaries that separate constructed environments from natural landscapes and climatic influences, establishing a new architectural declaration for megacities across Asia. Its primary goal is to reintroduce a human-centered scale into Jakarta's intensely developed urban fabric, promoting a harmonious coexistence between residents and their environment.

The architects behind Mitte Oblique Garden have crafted a space that is not merely functional but also deeply rooted in ecological principles. By integrating green spaces directly into the building's design, they aim to mitigate the urban heat island effect and enhance air quality, contributing significantly to the well-being of its inhabitants. This project serves as a critical response to the challenges posed by rapid urbanization, offering a sustainable model that champions the integration of lush gardens and open-air elements within a commercial setting. The careful consideration of natural light and ventilation further amplifies the building's connection to its surroundings, reducing reliance on artificial systems and fostering a healthier, more vibrant atmosphere.

Moreover, the design methodology of Mitte Oblique Garden encourages social interaction and community engagement. The interconnected green spaces and common areas are conceived as vital arteries that allow people to gather, relax, and connect with nature amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. This thoughtful integration of public and private realms distinguishes the project, transforming it from a mere building into a living, breathing ecosystem that supports both biodiversity and human flourishing. It stands as a testament to the idea that innovative architectural solutions can not only address the functional needs of urban populations but also enrich their daily experiences through thoughtful design.

The Mitte Oblique Garden by RAD+ar sets a precedent for future urban developments in densely populated regions. It demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to commercial architecture, prioritizing environmental harmony and human scale. This project's success lies in its ability to seamlessly weave natural elements into the urban context, creating a sustainable and inviting environment that stands in stark contrast to the concrete jungles typically found in large metropolitan areas. It is an exemplary case of how visionary design can transform urban challenges into opportunities for innovation and enhanced quality of life.

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Lech Mountain Mirror: A Reflective Installation by Snøhetta in the Austrian Alps

In the picturesque Austrian Alps, the internationally acclaimed architecture and design firm Snøhetta has unveiled an innovative landscape installation named the 'Lech Mountain Mirror.' This captivating art piece is situated on the summit of the Zugerbergbahn mountain station, serving as a focal point that redefines visitor engagement with the stunning alpine panorama. The project, set to be finalized in 2026, endeavors to challenge and enrich the public's interpretation of their natural surroundings, solidifying Lech's standing as a vibrant destination throughout all seasons.


The 'Lech Mountain Mirror' is conceived as more than just an architectural addition; it is a meticulously crafted intervention designed to harmonize with the dramatic mountainscape. By employing a reflective surface, the installation offers dynamic and ever-changing views of the peaks, valleys, and skies, encouraging a deeper connection between onlookers and the environment. This interactive element transforms passive observation into an immersive experience, where the boundary between art and nature becomes fluid. The design subtly integrates into the rugged terrain, reflecting the beauty and grandeur of the Alps while introducing a contemporary artistic dimension.


The project's strategic placement at the mountain station leverages the existing infrastructure of the Zugerbergbahn, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of visitors. Snøhetta's vision extends beyond mere aesthetics, aiming to create a memorable landmark that resonates with both local culture and international tourism. The 'Lech Mountain Mirror' is expected to become a significant attraction, drawing attention to Lech's natural splendor and its commitment to integrating modern design with environmental sensitivity. Its completion will mark a notable achievement in landscape architecture, promising an unparalleled sensory journey for all who visit.


The 'Lech Mountain Mirror' represents a thoughtful fusion of artistic expression and architectural ingenuity within a breathtaking natural setting. This installation by Snøhetta is poised to become a defining feature of the Lech mountain region, offering a unique opportunity for contemplation and appreciation of the majestic alpine environment. Through its reflective qualities, the project invites visitors to reconsider their perspective of the landscape, fostering a deeper engagement with the serene and powerful beauty of the Austrian Alps.

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