In the summer of 2025, a new chapter in Costa Rica's architectural and design story will begin with the opening of Bakkura Resort. Nestled in the pristine rainforest of Golfito, this eco-luxury resort offers not only a destination but also a journey into the architectural history of Latin America. Drawing inspiration from the classic banana plantations that once defined the region’s economy and landscape, Bakkura blends the past with the present, creating a timeless design that pays homage to tradition while embracing the demands of modern luxury.
At Neoarchitects, we’ve long been fascinated by how architecture in tropical climates, especially that of agricultural heritage, can be both functional and beautiful. In a previous post, "Design to Last," we explored how buildings in these challenging environments stand the test of time by combining simplicity, resilience, and environmental sensitivity. With Bakkura Resort, these principles are elevated through a deep respect for the region's historical plantation architecture, merged with the artistry of the indigenous Boruca culture.
Learning from the Past: The Architecture of Banana Plantations
The architecture of banana plantations across Latin America has a fascinating history rooted in practicality. Built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these structures were designed to cope with the region's tropical climate while also accommodating the needs of workers and large-scale agricultural operations. In essence, they were functional structures that integrated natural ventilation, durable materials, and flexible layouts to ensure comfort despite the challenging heat and humidity.
Bakkura Resort has taken these elements as the foundation of its design, creating luxury bungalows that reflect the essence of this plantation style. Large wrap-around porches, open-air living spaces, and high-pitched roofs that provide natural airflow are just a few of the features that give Bakkura its distinctive architectural character. The bungalows’ forms are simple yet elegant, offering guests a sanctuary in the midst of nature while respecting the original purpose of such designs: to provide shelter and comfort in a tropical climate.
The use of local materials further enhances this connection to traditional plantation architecture. By sourcing wood and stone from the surrounding region, Bakkura's designers have created a tactile experience that feels deeply tied to the landscape. The natural textures, combined with the airy and open structure, allow guests to feel both protected and connected to the rainforest that surrounds them.
Integrating Boruca Art and Craftsmanship
What sets Bakkura apart from the traditional plantation design, however, is the incorporation of Boruca artistry and craftsmanship. The Boruca, an indigenous people who have inhabited the region for centuries, are known for their vibrant art and connection to the natural world. Their influence can be seen in the intricate carvings, textiles, and masks that are displayed throughout the resort.
Each bungalow at Bakkura is adorned with Boruca motifs, blending indigenous artistry with the simple, practical lines of plantation architecture. The design team worked closely with Boruca artisans to ensure that every detail was crafted with authenticity and care, creating a space that celebrates the cultural heritage of the region. This collaboration is an essential part of Bakkura’s mission, not only to preserve but also to elevate the Boruca legacy through design.
Moreover, the integration of Boruca design elements is not purely decorative. The resort embraces Boruca building techniques that align with sustainable practices, such as the use of natural fibers for roofing and hand-woven tapestries that help regulate interior temperatures. These touches are a nod to the indigenous knowledge of living harmoniously with nature, a concept that modern sustainability advocates have only recently rediscovered.
Designing for Sustainability and Luxury
Bakkura Resort embodies the concept of eco-luxury, where environmental responsibility meets high-end comfort. While the design draws heavily from the history of the region, it also embraces contemporary sustainability practices. Like the plantations of old, Bakkura relies on passive climate control, using natural ventilation, shade, and water features to keep spaces cool without relying heavily on energy-intensive air conditioning.
Solar energy powers much of the resort, and water conservation systems ensure that Bakkura operates in harmony with the delicate rainforest ecosystem. In this way, the resort looks to the future, aligning with Costa Rica's broader goals of carbon neutrality and environmental stewardship. The choice of local materials and the collaboration with the Boruca community further reflect Bakkura's commitment to sustainability, ensuring that the resort not only respects the land but also gives back to the community that has called this region home for generations.
At Neoarchitects, we believe that true luxury is not about excess but about experience. It’s about creating spaces that enrich lives by connecting people to their surroundings in meaningful ways. Bakkura Resort does just that. By fusing the enduring qualities of Latin American plantation architecture with the rich cultural traditions of the Boruca people, Bakkura creates an experience that is both deeply luxurious and profoundly rooted in its environment.
At Bakkura Resort, sustainability and luxury are not opposing forces but complementary elements that work together to create a unique experience. The resort’s approach to sustainability goes beyond environmental responsibility—it's embedded in every aspect of the design, construction, and operation. By combining modern sustainable technologies with traditional architectural wisdom, Bakkura sets a new standard for eco-luxury resorts in tropical regions like Golfito, Costa Rica.
Passive Climate Control: Architecture in Tune with Nature
One of the key sustainable features of Bakkura Resort’s design is its reliance on passive climate control, a hallmark of traditional tropical architecture. In regions like Golfito, where heat and humidity can be intense, buildings need to stay cool without excessive energy consumption. Bakkura takes cues from historic banana plantation houses, which were designed with natural ventilation and shading in mind.
The resort’s high-pitched roofs and large overhanging eaves provide ample shade, keeping the interiors cool throughout the day by reducing direct sunlight exposure. The open-air designs of the bungalows allow for cross-ventilation, where breezes flow freely through the space, minimizing the need for artificial cooling systems. Windows and doors are strategically placed to encourage air circulation, allowing the rainforest’s natural cooling elements to regulate the indoor climate.
This method not only reduces the carbon footprint of the resort but also enhances the guest experience by allowing them to feel constantly connected to the surrounding environment. Instead of being sealed off in air-conditioned rooms, guests enjoy the sounds, scents, and gentle breezes of the rainforest, all while staying comfortably cool.
Solar Power and Energy Efficiency
Energy consumption is another critical factor in creating a truly sustainable resort. Bakkura Resort taps into solar power to meet much of its energy needs. Golfito is blessed with ample sunlight year-round, making it an ideal location for solar energy harvesting. Photovoltaic panels are discreetly integrated into the resort’s infrastructure, generating clean, renewable energy that powers everything from lighting to appliances.
To further reduce energy consumption, Bakkura utilizes energy-efficient lighting and appliances throughout the resort. Motion sensors and timers ensure that energy is only used when needed, preventing waste. The resort’s eco-conscious design also includes thermal insulation in its construction materials, helping to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures without relying heavily on artificial climate control systems.
Water Conservation and Management
In a region as biodiverse as Golfito, water conservation is paramount to ensuring that the local ecosystem remains unharmed. Bakkura Resort has implemented innovative water management systems that reduce water waste and promote sustainable usage. Rainwater harvesting systems collect and store rainwater, which is then filtered and used for non-potable purposes, such as irrigation for the resort’s landscaping.
The resort also employs greywater recycling, where wastewater from sinks and showers is treated and reused for irrigation, reducing the overall demand on the local water supply. To further minimize water usage, Bakkura uses low-flow fixtures in bathrooms and kitchens, ensuring that every drop of water is used efficiently.
These water management systems are vital for the long-term sustainability of the resort, as they not only reduce the resort’s impact on the surrounding rainforest but also help conserve a precious natural resource in a region where ecological balance is delicate.
Locally Sourced and Sustainable Materials
Another pillar of Bakkura’s sustainable design philosophy is the use of locally sourced materials. By building with wood, stone, and other materials sourced from the surrounding region, the resort minimizes the environmental impact of transportation and supports the local economy. These materials are selected not only for their low environmental impact but also for their ability to blend seamlessly with the natural environment.
The choice of materials goes hand-in-hand with the resort’s minimal footprint approach to construction. The bungalows and communal spaces are designed to sit lightly on the land, with minimal disruption to the rainforest. Raised platforms, for example, ensure that the natural flow of water and wildlife is maintained beneath the structures, preserving the integrity of the local ecosystem.
Additionally, the resort works closely with local artisans and craftspeople, particularly from the Boruca community, to incorporate handcrafted elements into the design. This not only provides economic opportunities for local communities but also ensures that the resort’s aesthetic is in harmony with the cultural and environmental context.
Waste Reduction and Responsible Tourism
Bakkura Resort is committed to minimizing waste through a combination of recycling, composting, and waste reduction strategies. Single-use plastics are avoided wherever possible, and guests are encouraged to use reusable items during their stay. The resort also implements a robust waste separation system, ensuring that materials such as plastic, glass, and paper are recycled appropriately.
The on-site restaurant takes sustainability one step further by composting organic waste, which is used to nourish the resort’s gardens. The focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients also helps reduce food miles and supports the surrounding community, while minimizing the resort’s carbon footprint.
Bakkura takes pride in promoting responsible tourism. Guests are encouraged to engage in eco-friendly activities, such as wildlife tours, hiking, and deep-sea fishing, all of which are conducted in a manner that respects the natural environment. The resort works with local environmental organizations to educate guests about conservation efforts and the importance of preserving the region’s biodiversity.
The Luxury of Sustainability
At Bakkura Resort, sustainability is not a compromise on comfort or luxury. Rather, it is integrated seamlessly into every aspect of the guest experience. The luxury here lies in the details: from the handcrafted Boruca textiles that adorn each bungalow, to the fresh, local cuisine served in the restaurant, every element of the resort is thoughtfully designed to provide an exceptional experience while maintaining a light environmental footprint.
Bakkura redefines what it means to experience luxury in a natural setting. Instead of artificial extravagance, guests are offered the luxury of space, serenity, and a deep connection to the land. The resort’s holistic approach to sustainability enhances this experience, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica’s rainforest with the peace of mind that their stay is supporting conservation and community efforts.
This fusion of sustainability and luxury is the future of eco-tourism. It’s a model that shows how architecture can create not just beautiful, functional spaces but also environments that respect and preserve the natural world. At Bakkura Resort, guests don’t just stay in a luxury hotel; they become part of a sustainable, regenerative ecosystem—one that will continue to thrive for generations to come
A Legacy of Design
Just as the banana plantations shaped the economic and architectural history of Latin America, Bakkura aims to shape a new legacy in the world of luxury eco-resorts. It is a place where history is alive, not as a relic, but as an integral part of the design. This resort is built to last, in every sense of the word. From its sustainable practices to its cultural reverence, Bakkura is designed to thrive in harmony with its surroundings, just as the plantations once did.
As we look to the future of architecture and design, projects like Bakkura show us that the past holds invaluable lessons. By learning from the timeless principles of plantation design—adaptability, respect for the environment, and simplicity—Bakkura creates a space that transcends mere aesthetics. It’s a place of refuge, beauty, and meaning, where every detail tells a story.
As the resort prepares to welcome guests in Summer 2025, Bakkura stands as a testament to the enduring power of thoughtful, place-based design—an oasis where history, culture, and nature converge.
For more insights into architectural innovations and the blending of tradition with modern design, continue exploring the Neoarchitects blog, where we share stories of how architecture can shape not only spaces but experiences that last a lifetime
for more information visit www.bakkuraresort.com
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