The Project That Defines 32 South

 This project started with a simple commission: creating a shaded space where a family could spend time together by the sea. But it evolved into the foundational idea for every future project by 32 South Architecture.

Sun or shade, one or the other—sometimes a matter of choice, sometimes necessity. The climate, the place, and above all, the people, reveal layers that need to be understood. Uncovering these layers is at the heart of our design process.

Is it about time together, or quality time together? How much time? These questions mirror the clear boundary between sun and shade, but it is the passage of time that bridges them. Time spent understanding the client’s wishes, time on-site to capture the unique essence of the surroundings, and time under the sun to observe its power to transform spaces.

The project’s central element is a permeable structure of metal frames and internal teak wood, designed to connect the existing with the new, linking place and user. The metal framework, chosen for its strength to span over the pool without additional supports, serves as a grounding element, while the teak wood acts as a natural filter for sunlight, softening it to create an inviting atmosphere.

Carefully positioned wood slats, aligned according to a solar analysis, cast desired shadows throughout the space. The name 32 South reflects the sun’s angle at this site in Guanacaste in december’s solstice, and this angle became the guiding force behind the play of light and shadow. Shadows fall across the concrete floor and water, creating a living pattern—a dynamic, shifting chessboard that transforms throughout the day.

Each position on this “board” invites different uses: some zones are bathed in sunlight, perfect for those in search of warmth and a tan, while others offer shaded areas for those seeking cool retreat. As the sun moves, the pattern changes, inviting visitors to explore the space, find new spots, and engage with its vibrant, ever-changing atmosphere. In the end, it is the passage of time that transforms static elements into dynamic ones, shaping an experience that brings people together—a defining principle for 32 South Architecture.