Shook is located in Playa Pelada, Nosara. The property spans 350m² and features a steep slope with two distinct access points. The southern access, at the lowest part of the property, connects to a small neighborhood on a cul-de-sac, while the northern access, at the highest point, opens to a more frequented street in a residential area near the sea.
With a compact architectural program of 110m² and a trapezoidal lot narrower at the lower end, the concept leverages the dual access points to divide the program. The social area is placed at the upper part of the lot, while the private area occupies the lower section, accessible via the private road. This design maximizes the upper part's available space and organizes the program across two levels of approximately 55m² each.
The social area is an open volume with side-to-side windows, taking advantage of its elevated position at street level to offer views above the tree canopies. Access is provided via a bridge leading to the terrace. The social space is divided into two transparent volumes, the kitchen and the living room, which are slightly offset to encourage interaction while adding warmth to each space. A separate volume for stairs and a bathroom breaks the horizontal flow and introduces a curve leading to the lower-level foyer.
The private area is more enclosed. The bedroom volume projects from the façade, partially concealing the glass volume of the social area above. This creates a planter at the upper level and allows space for a balcony on the lower level. The bedroom volume is slightly elevated above the natural terrain, enhancing privacy and security. The façade incorporates levels, terraces, elevations, varied rooflines, overhangs, and planters, creating depth, volumes, and unique characteristics for each access point while maintaining the overall unity of the design.
A concrete volume anchors the structure to the terrain. The separation from the street and the program layout makes a steel structure ideal for constructing the social area. A small connecting bridge links the street level to the public space. The use of metal structures for the overhangs minimizes the amount of teak wood in the project while creating a wood-like effect for the ceiling of the social area. This element introduces a stepped ceiling design that culminates in a black overhang, adding a refined finish to the project.