Posada el Agua

Nueva Esparta, Venezuela

Architect: Samuel García

This project involves the design of a tourist lodge strategically located in one of the most attractive areas of Margarita Island, merging architecture, sustainability, and comfort within a natural setting of mountains and beach.

Set on a 1,175 m² plot with uneven topography and abundant vegetation, the development features a group of cabin-style accommodations aimed at travelers seeking an authentic and eco-conscious experience. The architectural proposal addresses the need to integrate built spaces into the natural landscape without disrupting its character, promoting a harmonious and sustainable use of the land.

The cabins are arranged diagonally in a zigzag pattern, allowing for open views, optimal natural lighting, and privacy for each unit. This layout adapts to the terrain’s slope, enhances cross-ventilation, and creates organic communal areas between the units. The northeast-southwest orientation ensures soft daylight exposure, avoiding intense midday heat.

Each cabin consists of two levels:

The ground floor includes a living-dining area, kitchen, and bathroom.

The upper floor features the main bedroom, workspace, and storage area. The design maximizes spatial efficiency, incorporating extra storage under the stairs and private outdoor decks.

The project emphasizes the use of local materials, passive cooling systems, sloped roofs designed for solar panels, and rainwater harvesting for garden irrigation. Existing vegetation is preserved to provide shade, freshness, and biodiversity.

Pedestrian paths, made of permeable materials, follow the natural curves of the terrain, allowing for a fluid connection between units and communal areas such as gardens and an artificial pond that serves as a relaxing and social space for guests.

Playa El Agua Lodge stands out for its mindful design, respect for the natural environment, and ability to offer an immersive, sustainable tourist experience. It represents a viable and replicable architectural solution for tropical regions with similar conditions.