Vida Brochure

we vis ion master plan des ign spaces for l ife | vidadesignstudio.com

At the core of all VIDA’s work is the conviction that we can do this better. Land is a finite, non-renewable resource that needs to be developed with long-term goals in mind – not just short-sighted returns. We’ve had centuries of that already. Each project is our one chance to get it right. This is why we vision, master plan and design spaces for life – spaces that remake the enduring connection between us, our communities and our habitats. Simple really.

why vida | introduction | vidadesignstudio.com

And, it shows in everything we produce. Of course we use cutting-edge design, land analysis and documentation technologies - but, at VIDA, great designs start with pen and paper. We still find the traditional art of drawing invaluable for communicating ideas, solving design problems and creating beautiful, one-off detailing. We love what we do. And, it shows.


And so are we. This is why we design spaces that seek to balance creativity, sustainability and profitability. Not one over the other. Not one without the other.


So we make each one count – with in-depth site analyses that enable our designers to understand, preserve and enhance the spirit of a place. We spend time on-site learning the language of the place – its history, orientation, vegetation, natural materials and landforms. We integrate innovative technologies when they’re called for – and timeless construction methods when they’re not.


VIDA’s client base is both broad and global. Our team has extensive, proven international experience on world-class projects with a focus on nature and hospitality-based escapes. But this is no ‘one-size-fits-all’. Each project is a fusion of ideas and experiences, of vision and skills. You know your business, we know ours – working together we can create something distinct. This open exchange of ideas is at the core of our business – just ask the people we have worked with.


Because being onsite means getting it done.

With studios in the Americas and Europe and projects in Europe, Asia, Central America and Australia, it would be easy enough for us to keep our projects at arm’s-length; to only talk with our clients via email or phone, digital documents and FTP sites, online and out-of-sight.

But, let's be honest, being onsite means getting the job done. Our ability to be there means VIDA is not only able to service our diverse project needs, but also the needs of our clients and contractors to share their ideas, discuss options and workshop solutions. Call us old-fashioned, but there's a lot to be said for a simple walk and talk on site.


m a t t h e w f ly n n

design director + partner

Experience has taught Matthew that nothing produces results like the bringing together of great individuals, in-depth analysis, good listening, outstanding design and hard work.

Matthew draws on 12 years of experience spanning four continents and a dozen countries. His work focuses on creating sustainable land-use solutions that balance creativity, sustainability and profitability - not one over the other, not one without the other.

These are lofty ideals for a boy from rural Australia - no argument. But, luckily, Matthew has the skills to back it up. He has extensive experience in the design, management and implementation of international projects and the proven ability to deliver world-class results - often in isolated regions on challenging sites.

It also helps that he believes in what he's doing. All of his work is underpinned by the conviction that we could do this better. Matthew draws on his strong foundation in rural and natural landscapes and his passion to incorporate regional materials and construction methods to deliver original designs for international resorts, nature-based communities, hotels, rural estates, private residences and ecolodges. Truth be told, he designs the places he'd like to be - if he ever took a break.

Prior to VIDA, Matthew was partner at 40NORTH and Managing Director of their expansion into Central America, following five years with EDSA in Beijing and Fort Lauderdale. Matthew is an avid photographer and traveller and, when he's not working, he can be found surfing on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica or at his family farm near Laidley, Australia. Ask to see his photos.

meet the team | vidadesignstudio.com

p r o j e c t e x p e r i e n c e p r i o r t o v i d a

• Hilton Hotel and Spa, Luxor, Egypt*

• Private Island, Dubai, UAE*

• Private Palace, Dubai, UAE*

• The Lodge at Chaa Creek Ecotourism Master Plan, Belize*

• Ario Ranch Sustainable Tourism Master Plan, Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica*

• Nihiwatu Resort Expansion Plan, Sumba Island, Indonesia*

• Menjangan Resort Ecotourism Master Plan, West Bali, Indonesia +

• Cross Waters Ecolodge, Guangdong Province, China +

• Richmond Bay Ecolodge, Richmond Bay, Dominica +

• Park Hyatt Hotel and Yacht Club, Dubai, UAE +

• Madinat Jumeirah Resort, Dubai, UAE +

* Completed while Managing Director of 40North, Costa Rica 2006-2010

+ Completed while Associate at EDSA, Fort Lauderdale and Beijing 2001- 2006

a na m a r i a p i n t o design director + partner

Ana is resourceful and creative in the way she renders both her life and her work.

You might also say she's VIDA's glue – Ana holds the team together. She is integral in the day-to-day management of VIDA's busy design studio: co-ordinating design workshops, managing VIDA's intern program, making sure everyone gets paid and overseeing project research and analysis.

Ana is also responsible for interpreting VIDA’s clients’ visions – skillfully creating a defined and unique style for each project; reinterpreting the regional context, character and colours afresh.

Ana's passion for meaningful landscapes was initially sparked by her family's flourishing nursery business. She now uses this passion to inspire the design team and guide the graphic style of VIDA's projects - drawing inspiration from the natural world, fashion, organic patterns, trends in hospitality, contemporary design and new directions in design and sustainable technologies; each element enriching the team's work – developing a rich visual language for VIDA.

She completed her studies in Landscape Architecture at Louisiana State University with opportunities to develop international experience in tropical design following internships in Thailand, Dominician Republic and Miami. As an emerging specialist in the field, Ana was employed with EDSA as a Landscape Architect for projects in Latin America.

When she's not working, Ana enjoys practicing yoga, travelling, cooking, entertaining, photography and bushwalking in Australia's parks and around the Flynn family farm.


• Tranquility Gardens Conceptual Landscape Master Plan, Osa Peninsula,Costa Rica*

• Avellanas Beach Community Master Plan, Avellanas, Costa Rica*

• Guacamaya Master Plan, Guanacaste, Costa Rica +

• St Regis Resort Punta Mita, Mexico +

• Fairmont Resort, Acapulco, Mexico +

• Porto Flamingo Master Plan, Guancaste, Costa Rica +

* Completed while Managing Director of AnaPinto Desings, Costa Rica 2007-2010

+ Completed while employed by EDSA, Fort Lauderdale 2005-2007



p h i l i p a d i u t o r i design director + partner

Leading VIDA's business development in Europe and the Mediterranean basin, Philip is a Landscape Architect who believes strongly in the proper management of our wild, urban and agricultural landscapes and to balancing society's needs with those of nature.

He also believes that the best work evolves through the formation of thoughtful, inter-disciplinary teams. Consequently, Philip's professional, global network allows him to assemble great project teams for his clients. His broad success is also due to the fact that he allows the design process to be reinterpreted anew for each project - there is no one-size-fits-all with Philip.

Wrapping up his Masters of Studies in Interdisciplinary Design for the Built Environment from the University of Cambridge, UK, Philip has focused his research on exploring alternative ways to visualize our landscapes to create new ways of perceiving our environment, while also improving the democratic process of land-use planning.

Raised in Northwest Pennsylvania, and having lived in Los Angeles, Rome, Fort Lauderdale, Siena, Prague and now settling in Florence, Italy his sense of culture is continuously expanding and plays an important role in the evolution of his distinctive style.

Prior to joining the VIDA team, Philip was a partner at the boutique landscape architecture and planning studio, FormaTerra, based out of Florence, Italy. Previously, Philip worked with EDSA Los Angeles for over 5 years where he managed large hospitality projects and assumed a primary role in educating the firm on sustainable design principles.

In his spare time, Philip takes lots of photographs, draws, snowboards, surfs or lounges al'fresco at a cafe with friends and family.


• Castiglion del Bosco, Montalcino, Italy *

• Monticello Resort feasibility study, Il Borro, Italy *

• Il Borgo, Villa Saletta, Palaia, Italy *

• Castiglion del Bosco Master Plan, Montalcino, Italy +

• Pololu Eco Ranch, North Kahala, Hawaii USA +

• The Ritz Carlton, Rancho Mirage renovation and expansion plan, California USA +

• Turning Stone Resort expansion plan, Verona, New York USA +

• Tejon Ranch community, Lebec, California USA +

• Grand Wailea Resort expansion plan, Maui Hawaii USA +

• La Quinta Resort renovation plan, La Quinta, California USA +

• Keaton Residence, Pacific Palisades, California USA +

• Private Residence, Malibu, California USA +

* C ompleted while partner of FormaTerra with Marco Battaggia, Italy 2007-2010

+ Completed while Senior Associate at EDSA in Santa Monica, California USA 2002-2007


j o h n ny g u t i e r r e z

project manager

Some people are hard to define. Take Johnny for instance. VIDA’s resident music guru, Johnny brings over 15 years experience in design and construction documentation for some of Costa Rica’s most influential companies; including design development of projects for architects, landscape architects and interior designers. He is also an advanced student of civil engineering.

But, there’s more. As VIDA’s Studio Manager and Technical Director, Johnny’s unique breadth of experience means that he also brings expertise in site and topographical analysis which sees him create development suitability models which form the basis for all VIDA’s projects.

If that’s not enough, he also coordinates the smooth sounds and running of VIDA’s busy design studio, manages all aspects of VIDA’s IT, and keeps on top of the accounts. In short, Johnny is VIDA’s go-to-guy.

To balance his hectic work life, Johnny indulges his passion for music by writing about trends and genres for several music magazines. He also DJs, plays percussion, blogs on emerging Costa Rican music and recently started a radio show broadcast in Mexico and Costa Rica (principally) and to the world via the internet.

In quiet moments (should he ever have any) he searches for the meaning of life in books on oriental philosophy.


• Private Island, Dubai, UAE*

• Private Palace, Dubai, UAE*

• Xandu Resort, Belek, Turkey*

• Port Saeed Commerical Development, Dubai, UAE*

* Completed while Technical Director

at 40NORTH, Costa Rica 2008-2010

g r e t t e l c e n t e no

design staff

Everyone has to start somewhere. Grettel thought she'd start her career as an architect by winning a regional design award.

Smart move.

As an architect, Grettel thrives on the experimentation and reflection it takes to produce spaces that catalyse new relationships between the ecological conditions, project parameters, and the social and material requirements. In fact, her thesis project on the importance of defining spaces that balance culture, history, form and use within Costa Rica's captial city, San Jose, is now being studied by other students.

Clearly she likes a challenge.

Actually, Grettel believes wholeheartedly that challenges – in life and design – bring about the best results. Fuel to the fire and all that.

Grettel also quietly relishes the synergies between architecture and urban design and, as a dedicated, multidisciplinary professional, draws on the richness of both. This breadth of knowledge allows her to approach each project as a unique design opportunity – the promise of a new beginning, a new conversation.

Which is why Grettel is at home with VIDA – where we insist on (and secretly love) the never-ending search for the perfect, perfectly resolved, design solution.

To balance all her intense head work, Grettel escapes via alternative films, yoga, night swimming and showing VIDA's expat staff around her city.


b r a d l e y l u na w i l s o n design staff

Acting purely on intuition, Bradley left Texas in January of 2011 to carve out his future. He believes that if the universe agrees with you, and you combine your passion with unadulterated hard work, doors will open. Sure enough, after a year in Panama, Bradley found VIDA – or rather, VIDA found Bradley.

Bradley's CV tells an unconventional tale, to be sure.

Back in Texas, Bradley worked as a backhoe operator for Rogers-O'Brien Construction in Austin during college. After graduating in May of 2010 with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Bradley began his journey in Marfa where he worked on vintage trailers, fabricating with steel, and building with Jack Sander's Design Build Adventure. He returned to Texas Tech that fall for a semester of graduate studies with Chris Taylor's Land Arts of the American West Studio; a two month interdisciplinary field program investigating the intersection of geomorphology and human construction in the south-western United States.

In Panama, Bradley did architectural drafting in Veracruz and also worked for the eco-development project known as Kalu Yala where he was involved in their graphic design and branding, and also initiated the camping operation that is still in operation in Los Tres Brasos in the Pacora River Valley.

Bradley is a passionate adventurer who still believes in the grandeur of human potential and the resiliency of the human spirit. When he has free time to do as he pleases, he loves working with wood, drawing, writing, photography, fixing things, camping, the arts, all things rustic, beauty in all its forms, and getting his hands dirty as a weekend mechanic.

See, 'eclectic' barely covers it.


c h a r l o t t e r u m m e l design staff

Following her love of beautiful places, Charlotte arrived in Italy – where her passion for the natural and built environments took shape via the harmonious collision of nature, science, art and 'la dolce vita'.

As it does.

What this means is that Charlotte's work is now imbued with passion and skill in equal measure. So, in VIDA, she has found a soul mate.

Her CV is technically rich and refreshingly varied. Before VIDA, she joined the Florence-based energy consulting company eO progetti, where she worked on green strategies balancing high and low tech solutions within an interdisciplinary process; form-includes-function always on her mind.

In her last year at university, she took a master class on housing and urbanism at the Architectural Association School in London. Inspired by its creative atmosphere, she had the chance to experiment on 'petit urbanite' as catalysing elements for an urban redevelopment project in the London area of Elephant&Castle.

By way of balance, Charlotte's PhD research on sustainable technologies gave her the opportunity to link back to the expertise of her home town Freiburg, initiating an exchange of ideas between local authorities, professionals and the University of Florence.

Charlotte's interdisciplinary experience helps inform the day-to-day workings of VIDA's Florence studio; from designing sustainable spaces, to coordinating with consultants in English, Italian or German, Charlotte keeps things on track.

And, because she's an overachiever, Charlotte is also a licensed architect in Germany where she has followed several residential projects from concept design through construction.

In her free time, Charlotte has collaborated with the Fringe Festival and Art Port in Florence. She’s happily married and loves to watch her two wonderful kids discover the world. On the odd occasion she has a free moment, Charlotte enjoys practising classic and modern dance, working as a weekend carpenter, keeping in touch with her friends around the globe, and travelling when she can.


k at e f ly n n copywriter

Kate is an award-winning copywriter though some of her best work has been written while staring blankly out a window.

In a former life, she worked as a copywriter in an advertising agency in Melbourne (Australia) and as a successful freelance writer in Brisbane (Australia). Kate has been lucky enough to get paid to write for the last 15 years and she’s hoping her luck continues.

Her body of work includes scriptwriting for television, radio and DVD and advertising copy for many well-known Australian and international brands. Kate’s expertise extends across the fields of marketing, public relations and advertising – and everything in between. Basically, Kate can help you articulate the vision for your project, develop the concept and help you communicate this message to your audience/s.

Kate currently provides strategic communication direction within a university and writes and manages the production of online and printed educational materials. She has also recently published a children’s story.

It’s fair to say she is a stickler for spelling and punctuation – though uses hyphens far too much. Kate believes that to write well you need to listen well. Because at its best, writing is about understanding people; articulating our similarities and helping people make connections that they may not otherwise. No really – it’s a terribly important job.

When Kate’s not writing for VIDA, she works part-time for an Australian university and full-time for her young family. In her spare time [sigh] she tries not to ruin her children’s lives and sees beauty in most things.


RIO PERDIDO THERMAL SPA

LOCATION:Bagacas, Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica

SCALE:400 Hectares

CLIENT:Costa Plan

PROJECT TEAM:C2 Architects + Estudio 27 + OUSIA design + VIDA

SCOPE:Master Planning + Full Service Landscape Architecture

VIDA ELEMENTS: Utilizing native low water-use plant material, nature and interpretive trails, reducing the movement of vehicles within the property, utilizing local materials and construction techniques in innovative ways, creating a memorable, regionally inspired hospitality experience.

PROJECT: VIDA was engaged in late 2010 by Costa Plan to join an established design team to provide Landscape Architectural services for the already master planned and designed destination spa and thermal river experience. The site is located a short drive from the town of Bagaces in the province of Guanacaste. The property is estimated to be around 400 hectares and features spectacular

projects | vidadesignstudio.com projects | vidadesignstudio.com

NATURE-BASED HOSPITALITY PLANNING AND DESIGN | RIO PERDIDO THERMAL SPA

views to the Miravalles Volcano, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano and the alluvial plains of the Pacific Coast. The property features a thermal river which dramatically cuts through the property exposing rugged cliffs and a scattering of enormous boulders remnant from volcanic activity. The river canyon features stands of enormous Espavel trees and steep slopes covered with native ferns.

Following our first site visit and a review of the planned facility, VIDA made several recommendations to the client team which fundamentally changed the way they had been looking at the arrival experience, the routing of the required infrastructure, the external spaces and the overall guest experience. Supported by the client team, VIDA re-planned and designed the arrival experience, guest transfer area, the main road, the routing of the services, the pool and resort-style facilities as well as working with the architects to improve the entry points and exits from the main building to create a more attractive and memorable guest experience. VIDA’s team have also routed a circuit of nature-based and interpretive trails connecting the thermal river experience, a suspension bridge crossing the lush canyon of the thermal river and several lookouts.

VIDA has recently completed the construction documentation and our team is currently overseeing the construction of the project. Due for completion in December 2011.


NATURE-BASED HOSPITALITY PLANNING AND DESIGN | RIO PERDIDO THERMAL SPA

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE:Rio Perdido will be a day guest facility. The thermal river experiences, pools, trails, spa and restaurant will draw tourists from the resort towns of Guanacaste.

TESTIMONIAL: GABRIEL SARAGOVIA, COSTAPLAN, TOURISM DEVELOPMENT “The property – which is among the most unique and beautiful that we have ever seen – demands very special treatment: both from a business feasibility perspective as well as from a naturally imposed respect for its ecological preservation. We've been developing tourism projects in Costa Rica for almost two decades and after getting to know the VIDA team and their inspired projects, it was unquestionable that they were the only contenders to undertake the land planning and landscape design in a project where the balancing of these two elements will dictate its ultimate success as a desirable destination. VIDA has been on-board since the beginning of what has been a difficult but very successful development (conceptualizing, design, permitting, and construction) process, involving thermal rivers, canyons, deep mineral springs, and hundreds of acres of reserve land. We are fortunate to have VIDA as part of this all-star team; undoubtedly the best team that I have had the good fortune of working with.”

LA BAHIA

LOCATION:Jobo, Guancaste, Costa Rica

SCALE:75 Hectares

CLIENT:Costa Plan

PROJECT TEAM:Costa Plan + VIDA

SCOPE:Project Visioning + Master Planning

VIDA ELEMENTS: Non-vehicular internal circulation, focusing development on previously disturbed areas of the property, incorporating regional styles and materials, creating connection to the local community through the development of a fishing village to promote local products and produce, responsive lightweight architecture set on pole construction, nature viewing platforms and interpretation trails.


NATURE-BASED HOSPITALITY PLANNING AND DESIGN | LA BAHIA

PROJECT: Based on the relationship established during the planning and design of Rio Perdido, Costa Plan invited VIDA to work with them on the Master Planning of their property in Jobo, north-west Guanacaste, Costa Rica. The property is located on Playa Manzanilla across the bay from Santa Elena Preserve. The property rises steeply from the Pacific ocean where ridges provide commanding views across the expansive and calm bay.

Based on detailed site analysis, project comparisons and a four day participatory workshop with the client team and community, VIDA has developed a preliminary concept for this ‘Casa Hotel' project that focuses development in previously disturbed zones, excludes private vehicles in favour of electric golf carts and promotes lightweight, regionally-inspired architecture arranged in clusters.

One of the key components of the project is the development of a fishing village that will build on the existing fishing operations in the town of Jobo. By working with the local fisherman, we hope to create a village to market local fish, provide food and beverage outlets for the project and the greater community, provide a tourism destination for other developments planned in the region as well provide a market for local products.

The program for the development will include 120 regionally-inspired rental homes, beach club, health and wellness center, resort-style common areas including library, guests services and pool. The guest accommodation will be linked by a series of interpretive trails with strategically sited lookouts and star-gazing towers. All aspects of the design will draw on the local fishing culture, locally available building materials and respond to the climate.

VIDA is busy wrapping up the Conceptual Master Plan for the project and the final plan will be submitted in October 2011.

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE:La Bahia is a short drive from the Area de Conservacion Guanacaste (ACG) that is made up of an estimated 120,000 hectares of land and 70,000 hectares of marine environment. The micro-climates within the conservation area vary from some of the driest (900mm per annum) to some of the wettest (3000mm per annum) rising from sea level to over 1500m. It is estimated that there are approximately 230,000 species dwelling in the area of ACG, which represents 65% of the species in Costa Rica.

Source: www.vivacostarica.com

TESTIMONIAL: EFRAIM SARAGOVIA, COSTAPLAN, TOURISM DEVELOPMENT “VIDA's design group is very professional - they made the effort to visit the property as many times as necessary to make the project a reality. As importantly, we felt that VIDA took the time to develop a relationship with us – to hear our ideas and value our knowledge about the property as integral to the planning and design process.

The entire design process has been very methodological, offering several options, all reflective of the difficult topography and the ecological requisites that apply in Costa Rica. The final Master Plan was a very attractive concept, that included all the details required and had a great sense of aesthetic.”


NATURE-BASED HOSPITALITY PLANNING AND DESIGN | LA BAHIA

NATURE-BASED HOSPITALITY PLANNING AND DESIGN | SENSORIA RAINFOREST TENTED LODGE

SENSORIA RAINFOREST TENT LODGE

LOCATION: Rincón de la Vieja, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

SCALE: 27 Hectares

CLIENT: G2 Development Green Global

PROJECT TEAM: Beyond the Buildings + VIDA

SCOPE: Project Visioning, Master Planning + Full Service Landscape Architecture

VIDA ELEMENTS: Planning development in previously disturbed areas and around existing trees, designing the majority of circulation above-grade to prevent damage to existing root systems, topography and hydrology as well as maintaining animal movement, lightweight architecture responsive to site conditions and above-grade sited to maximize natural breezes, solar access and views, planning guest activity to encourage a reconnection with nature and context, routing all services below elevated boardwalks minimizing impact on property caused by trenching, consolidating service functions and traffic to improve operational efficiency and improve guest experience, creating an environment that reflects the context, utilizing local materials and construction techniques in new and innovative ways, creating strong indoor/outdoor relationships,


NATURE-BASED HOSPITALITY PLANNING AND DESIGN | SENSORIA RAINFOREST TENTED LODGE

PROJECT: VIDA was engaged by Fernando Madrigal in early 2011 to plan an eco lodge for his prized Sensoria property. Fernando had patiently pieced together this one-of-a-kind property from smaller land-owners with the intention of creating a world-class eco lodge. From day one, Fernando’s vision has been to create a nature-based experience that built on the sites natural thermal creeks and pools, water falls, biodiversity and proximity to the active Rincon de la Vieja volcano. Equally important to Fernando, and key to creating a truly eco tourism experience, is his passion to empower the local community as well as set new standards in sustainable operations, planning and design.

The first step in the design process was pulling together the amazing wealth of plans, data, photos, video and ideas the client had diligently put together. With preliminary Site Analysis in hand, and encouraged by our client's enthusiasm and love of the property, the VIDA team spent several days hiking the many canyons, creeks and ridges of this amazing property. In the shelter of the existing hikers' accommodation, VIDA’s team refined our site analysis to create the initial Opportunities and Constraints plan and spent additional time on site using a GPS to identify suitable sites for lodging, core buildings and circulation. We also categorized the temperatures of the thermal springs to assist with the planning process.

During the development of the Preliminary Conceptual Master Plan, VIDA’s team paid careful attention to the operational requirements of the project; as our experience has taught us – all successful hospitality projects come down to the success of the operations and the quality of the guest experience.

The project is currently in environmental permits and when VIDA presented the proposal to the local environmental permitting authority (CETENA) they were so impressed by the level of on-site analysis and consideration of current and future environmental impact of the project that they summarized with this statement; “ the design methodology for Sensoria should become the benchmark for planning tourism projects in Costa Rica – this is what this country is about – this is what people come to this country to experience”.

The client is currently in final negotiations with a world-class eco-tourism operations group and, once the deal is done, VIDA will continue working to design and implement the project with a multidisciplinary team.

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE: The Rincón de la Vieja volcano is one of six active volcanoes in Costa Rica. The most recent eruption was in September 2011.

TESTIMONIAL: FERNANDO MADRIGAL, PRESIDENT G2 DEVELOPMENTS “ VIDA has taken Sensoria to unimaginable levels. Beyond the trust that they inspire, their dedication and unconditional commitment to their clients and projects make them one of the best Landscape Architects in the region.


LAPA RIOS SUSTAINABLE MASTER PLAN

LOCATION:Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

SCALE:400 Hectares

CLIENT:Lapa Rios

PROJECT TEAM:Cayuga Operations Group + HM Design + VIDA

SCOPE:Master Planning

VIDA ELEMENTS: Non-vehicular internal circulation, consolidating service movement and function, siting architecture in previously disturbed areas, promoting lightweight site-responsive architecture, creating flexible spaces that take advantage of the site conditions, respond to function while enhancing the guest experience.

PROJECT: VIDA was engaged by HM Design in early 2010 to collaborate on a Sustainable Master Plan for the Lapa Rios Lodge in Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica. Lapa Rios was founded by John and Karen Lewis in 1993 and has established itself as a world leader in sustainable tourism. The lodge is set in a private nature preserve of around 400 hectares of Central America's last remaining


NATURE-BASED HOSPITALITY PLANNING AND DESIGN | LAPA RIOS SUSTAINABLE MASTER PLAN

lowland tropical rainforest. Lapa Rios is world re-known for their protection of the rainforest, its social programs, guided nature tours, local employment policies and recent awards include Travel + Leisure winner for the 2010 Global Vision Award for Environmental Leadership and Conde Naste Travelers World Saver Award in 2010.

The goal of the Sustainable Master Plan was to ensure Lapa Rios maintains its position as a leader in eco tourism and nature-based travel. In the 17 years since the lodge's inception, travelers expectations have changed – the eco-tourism market has diversified and expanded and the quality of the guest experience has moved to a more luxury focused product as the knowledge base and the systems available for designing in environmentally sensitive areas have evolved.

To ensure the Master Plan improvements do not detract from the intimacy of the existing guest experience, or cause negative impact on the local environment and community, the design team spent eight days on the property, studying the existing operations, the site, the context, competitive projects, the existing facilities, the community and the local environment. Following an extensive site analysis and participatory workshop process, the team developed a Master Plan to create a guest welcoming area, luxury guest rooms, detached family villas, destination spa, environment research

facilities, improvements to the food and beverage facilities, the creation of a multifunction event space, a beach club, rental pool villas to be sold to like-minded individuals, and redirection of circulation including guest, vehicular and service.

The Master Plan completed in October 2010 will guide the development and expansion of Lapa Rios for years to come and further establish the property as one of the world's most authentic ecolodges.

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE:Lapa Rios, and many other world-class ecotourism destinations, is featured in Authentic Ecolodges, by Hitesh Mehta. www.authenticecolodges.com

TESTIMONIAL| HITESH MEHTA, HM DESIGN “ VIDA studio was a joy to work with. They are creative, diligent and understand the deeper consciousness that my projects require. Most importantly, VIDA delivered the work product in time and they are indeed one of the best associates I have worked with around the world.”

www.laparios.comwww.hmdesign.com www.travelandleisure.com/hotels/lapa-rios-playa-carbonerawww.cayugaonline.com


NATURE-BASED HOSPITALITY PLANNING AND DESIGN | LAPA RIOS SUSTAINABLE MASTER PLAN

NIHIWATU RESORT EXPANSION NEW

LOCATION: Sumba Island, Indonesia

SCALE: 175 Hectares

CLIENT: PT Indonesia Adventure Sports

PROJECT TEAM: HM Design + Paul Pholeros, Simon Velez + Marcelo Villegas + Matthew Flynn (then Managing Director of 40NORTH, Costa Rica)

SCOPE:Master Planning + Schematic Design

VIDA ELEMENTS: Maximizing the guest experience, developing a master plan that responds to the existing and future operations, consolidating service functions and traffic to improve operational efficiency and improve guest experience, creating multi-use, revenue-generating external spaces, creating an environment that reflects the context and responds to guest function, utilizing local materials and construction techniques in new and innovative ways, creating strong indoor/outdoor relationships, siting architecture program in previously disturbed areas.


NATURE-BASED HOSPITALITY PLANNING AND DESIGN | NIHIWATU RESORT EXPANSION

PROJECT: In early 2008, Matthew Flynn was engaged by Hitesh Mehtha of HM Design to co-master plan an expansion strategy for the Nihiwatu Resort on the remote island of Sumba, Indonesia. Nihiwatu is an existing up-market hideaway famous for its perfect reef break and the SUMBA foundation; a non-profit organization that has funded a range of education, health and economic programs on the island.

Hitesh brought together a world class team including Paul Pholeros, one of Australia’s most noted environmental architects and Colombia’s bamboo architects, Simon Velez and Marcelo Villegas. The design team spent 10 days on the island developing the site plan and conceptual architecture for the new program to include: new arrival sequence and guest reception, upgraded guest amenities, new beach club, restaurants and gift shops, spa and wellness center as well as a new accommodation types including private villas.Following the completion of the Conceptual Master Plan, our team developed schematic level designs for the first phase of the project in collaboration with HM Design. The program for the first phase included improvements to the guest arrival and reception areas


NATURE-BASED HOSPITALITY PLANNING AND DESIGN | NIHIWATU RESORT EXPANSION

and the siting and design of three luxury rental pool villas. The landscape concept developed paid homage to the rice terraces of the surrounding region and local thatch grass was used to mimic the rice while providing useful roofing material for the project.

Local architects, engineers and landscape architects will proceed to the Design Development stage of the project as a means of technology and information exchange which is an important philosophy behind international projects of this nature.

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE:The team for this project had all previously worked together in China on the Cross Waters Ecolodge completed in 2006. Matthew Flynn, then with EDSA Beijing, spent 18 months in China over-seeing the construction of this project

www.crosswaters.net.cnwww.nihiwatu.comwww.sumbafoundation.orgwww.hmdesign.com

MISTICO

LOCATION:Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica

SCALE:76 Hectares

CLIENT:Desarrolladores 506

PROJECT TEAM:Parq Proyecto Arquitectura + DEHC + VIDA

SCOPE:Project Visioning + Master Planning + Schematic Design + Construction Documentation + Administration

VIDA ELEMENTS: Reconstructed wetlands and stormwater retention basins, preservation and creation of habitat, lightweight architecture on pole construction, use of semi-permeable pavements for roads, integrated stormwater management, development of town center to offer community primary goods to reduce car dependency, integrated pedestrian, bike and cart network, nature trails, development in previously disturbed areas of the property, 50% of the property preserved.


HOTELS AND RESORT COMMUNITIES | MISTICO

PROJECT: Mistico is located on Costa Rica’s stunning Central Pacific Coast in the province of Puntarenas just south of the well known beach town of Jaco. The project is located on 76 hectares between Playa Esterillos and Playa Hermosa both world renown for their quality waves for surfing.

VIDA was engaged by Parq Proyecto Arquitectura to audit an existing Master Plan and provide recommendations for improvements. Following extensive on-site analysis supported by GIS-based land analysis and on-site observations, VIDA concluded that the developer should redirect their efforts and develop an alternative Master Plan that responded better to the inherent site conditions of the property and the region. VIDA’s proposal provided a development that was more cost effective to construct, had greater market appeal and respected, and enhanced, the natural assets of the property.

VIDA is currently working with Parq Proyecto Arquitectura on all aspects of the master planning and schematic design of the community. The final build-out of the property will include 170 residential lots, 10 development parcels, town center, commercial core, beach and fitness club, 80 key hotel site, interconnected wetland and lake system, integrated nature-based and recreational trails system, arrival statement, internal circulation and arrival boulevard.

One of the key components that VIDA brought to the project was the development of the project core and town center where all recreational and commercial program items will be planned. This area of the development will be orientated around a community soccer field; an important component of local culture and drawing influence from the traditional layouts of early Costa Rican towns.

As the land floods periodically, and is currently used for rice faming,

VIDA has proposed to develop a wetland and lagoon system to drive real estate values, create habitat and provide an ideal natural setting for an integrated pedestrian network linking all areas of the development. The road network has been designed to encourage non-vehicular movement through the property with all pedestrian routes linked to the town center.

VIDA’s team is currently wrapping up the Schematic Design Phase and construction is planned to break ground in 2012.

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE:One of the key challenges with this property is addressing the issues of flooding – as with many of the low-lying areas of the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica flooding in the wet season is common.

TESTIMONIAL: DANIEL CISNEROS, PARQ PROYECTO ARQUITECTURA My architectural firm, Parq Proyecto Arquitectura was hired by a developer to conceptualize and design a beach town community in the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. After three years of struggling with an engineering firm that did not understand my vision, I came through with VIDA. As an architect, I understood that there are different specialties in design and architecture and I am confident that I am now working with the best landscape architectural firm in the region! I have not only had an exceptional professional experience but have made great friends. The outcome has been sensational and now, as a team, we can deliver to our client a project that reaches international standards in terms of sustainable design and profitability. It has been an honor to work with VIDA on such an amazing project and I am eager to see what comes next!


HOTELS AND RESORT COMMUNITIES | MISTICO

THE RESIDENCE AT CIELO PARAISO

LOCATION:Boquete, Panama

SCALE:400 Hectares

CLIENT:Gladstone Development

PROJECT TEAM:Casis Arquitectos + VIDA

SCOPE: Master Planning + Full Service Landscape Architecture

VIDA ELEMENTS:Utilizing low water-use native plant material, planning for responsive, regionally-inspired architecture, integrated stormwater management, routing nature and recreational trails and promoting non-vehicular movement through design.

PROJECT: The Residence at Cielo Paraiso is a resort community located a short drive from the coffee growing town of Boquete. Boquete has experienced popularity with retiring North Americans and Europeans who are drawn by the pristine mountain environment, the idealic weather, the array of quality restaurants, small hotels and the vibrant community.


HOTELS AND RESORT COMMUNITIES | THE RESIDENCE AT CIELO PARAISO

Located at around 1000 meters above sea level, the property has a south-western orientation with expansive views to the Pacific Ocean and the many islands of the Golfo Chiriqui. At the heart of the community is an 18 hole championship golf course designed by Californian-based golf course architect, Micheal J Poellot. The course will be certified by Audubon International which is an award-winning education and certification program that helps golf courses protect the environment.

VIDA was engaged in late 2010 to initially develop a landscape strategy for the project including over 9kms of streets, the golf course, public parks, arrival experience and the future golf club house. From the beginning, VIDA’s goal was to encourage the developer to use a palette of native plant material that could be transplanted from areas of future development, or propagated and grown on-site. During our initial design workshop, VIDA brought to the team our local plant and nursery specialist to help identify the plant material on the property and to establish a native planting palette that could be grown to a commercial scale on the property or by using contract growers. During this process we also developed transplantation procedures for transplanting existing trees and shrubs from areas zoned for development.

As VIDA’s involvement in the project became established, the client team realized VIDA’s full potential and we were engaged to master plan the second phase of real estate which will include a mixture of detached

residences and duplexes sited in a way to reduce over-reliance on vehicles while preserving and connecting remnant areas of native forest. VIDA is currently working on the conceptual design of the streetscapes, public parks, second phase real estate development, tennis club and community club facility. VIDA has played a lead role in driving the future phases of the project, working closely with the architects on the project, to develop a distinctively Boquete style that draws on the local materials, cultural landscape and pays homage to the European immigrants of the area.

The implementation of landscape improvements are underway and construction of the real estate component will begin in the fourth quarter of 2011.

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE:The district of Boquete has a population of around 19,000 inhabitants. It is estimated that around 14% of the population is foreign. Coffee from the region of Boquete recently set new world records fetching 131 USD per pound.

www.cieloparaiso.comwww.acspgolf.auduboninternational.org www.poellotgolfdesigns.com


HOTELS AND RESORT COMMUNITIES | THE RESIDENCE AT CIELO PARAISO

ANTOGNOLLA RESORT AND SPA

LOCATION:Perugia, Italy

SCALE:570 Hectares

CLIENT:Confidential

PROJECT TEAM:Marco Battaggia + VIDA (other consultants are confidential)

SCOPE: Master Planning + Concept Design

VIDA ELEMENTS:Developing low water-use and native plant palette, working with the architects to carefully site new buildings into the landscape in order to avoid excessive cut and fill, developing a vernacular language of site work detailing, envisioning future agricultural landscapes supported by the new resort investment, reducing impact of vehicular traffic on site through integration of underground parking, integrated stormwater collection, re-use, and management techniques.


HOTELS AND RESORT COMMUNITIES | ANTOGNOLLA RESORT AND SPA

PROJECT: Our good friend and Italian landscape architect, Marco Battaggia, invited VIDA to collaborate on this five-star rural resort in the Umbrian hills that will be the first for an international - quality luxury resort on the Peninsula. Working together as the collaboration 'FormaTerra', Marco and VIDA are providing complete master planning and landscape architecture for this majestic rural estate, which includes an international 5-star hotel and the restoration and conversion of an existing castle dating from the 1300s to contain approximately 36 suites, a restaurant and terrace lounge. In addition, approximately 74 suites will be integrated within a northern slope overlooking the castle and designed in a way to complement the local Umbrian architectural aesthetic, culture, and surrounding view-sheds.

An abandoned structure will be re-used and converted to contain core aspects of the resort including the arrival court and reception, a world-class spa, restaurants, retail outlets, swimming areas and garden terraces. The Castle of Antognolla overlooks an 18 hole championship golf course designed by Robert Trent-Jones II that opened around

1998. The Antognolla estate of 570 ha (1400 acres) will also include a new entrance, club house, four large casali (farmhouses) and four new villages (borghi) to be carefully integrated into the surrounding countryside around the castle.

Our client has assembled a world-class project team composed of local and international consultants to oversee the design and construction of the resort - ensuring a design philosophy that will meet the needs of the most discerning international guests, while remaining true to the local vernacular and genus loci of the estate.

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE: Together with Marco Battaggia, we have been spending as much time on site as possible - taking advantage of the property’s location (a quick 1 1/2 hour drive from our studio in Florence). Being such a unique property with significant historical components, the designs we are developing for the project are continuously being layered and tested with new information and ideas garnered from each visit to the site.


HOTELS AND RESORT COMMUNITIES | ANTOGNOLLA RESORT AND SPA

SANTA TERESA BEACH HOTEL

LOCATION:Santa Teresa, Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica

SCALE:1.6 Hectares

CLIENT:Malinche Rojo S.A.

PROJECT TEAM:VIDA

SCOPE: Project Visioning + Master Planning

VIDA ELEMENTS: TPlanning of the building program around existing trees, designing the majority of circulation above-grade to prevent damage to existing root systems, topography and hydrology, routing utilities below elevated circulation minimizing impact on property caused by trenching, lightweight, above-grade architecture responsive to site to maximize natural breezes, solar access and views, strong indoor/outdoor relationships, utilizing local materials and construction techniques to create a truly responsive and regional hospitality experience.


HOTELS AND RESORT COMMUNITIES | SANTA TERESA BEACH HOTEL

PROJECT: VIDA was engaged in mid 2011 to plan a boutique hotel for the client’s beachfront property in the emerging resort town of Santa Teresa. Given the property's idyllic location and famous beach breaks, VIDA’s team didn’t need any encouragement to spend the necessary time on site to visit comparative projects, study local tourism trends, construction methods, and available materials while getting to know the pros and cons of the property.

During the five-day workshop we facilitated a three-day working session with the client in a neighboring hotel where we developed Conceptual Master Plan options that explored different arrangements of program and unit yields. The client group has extensive operational experience with other successful hotels and resort projects in Costa Rica and this wealth of knowledge helped guide the decision-making process while providing insight into Costa Rican tourism trends, client expectations and shortfalls in the local and regional markets.

Back in the studio, VIDA’s team developed further the approved Conceptual Master Plan as well as providing sections and sketches of the proposed architectural style, scale and density. The Final Conceptual Master Plan booklet was submitted in September 2011 and the project is currently being permitted. VIDA is currently assisting the client to build a multidisciplinary project team with design and documentation expected to be completed by late 2012 and ground breaking in early 2013.

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE: As early as the late 1970s, overland access from the capital of San Jose to this remote, beautiful area of Costa Rica could take up to two days with many creek and river crossings. Change is inevitable, and today’s travellers can reach Santa Teresa from San Jose within four hours by car, however this stretch of coast still maintains a 'frontier' feeling.


HOTELS AND RESORT COMMUNITIES | SANTA TERESA BEACH HOTEL

ARIO RANCH SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT MASTER PLAN

LOCATION:Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica

SCALE:2000 Hectares

CLIENT:Ariobongo

PROJECT TEAM:HM Desgin + VIDA


VIDA ELEMENTS:Preserving and enhancing the rural landscape, developing responsive, authentic hospitality concepts, promoting lightweight, regionally-inspired architecture, assisting the client to establish a clear brand, developing real estate strategies that respond to the current and future market conditions, associating with projects that reflect our personal values.

RURAL PLANNING AND DESIGN | ARIO RANCH SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT MASTER PLAN


PROJECT: Our group has been involved with the client team since early 2008 and recent work on the Ario Ranch project has seen the development of an overall Sustainable Development Master Plan which focuses on consolidating and improving the efficiency of the existing agricultural operations, developing and planning alternative agricultural enterprise, planning facilities for the existing horse tour operations, infrastructural improvements, and establishing a long-term hospitality, lodging and real estate development strategy. This recent effort develops further a Sustainable Tourism Master Plan developed in 2008 by HM Design and Matthew Flynn, then Managing Director of 40NORTH Costa Rica.

The property is approximately 2000 hectares with over 2kms of pristine beachfront, several delicate mangrove and estuaries, extensive areas of grazing land and intensive agriculture, two rivers and a short drive from the growing resort town of Santa Teresa.

Following the advice of VIDA, the client has explored ways to brand their beef operations through a certification program and the group is currently seeking certification with Rain Forest

Alliance. The certification is tied to one of the key objectives of the Master Planning effort: to reduce the footprint of the cattle operations. The team is currently exploring ways to consolidate and site agricultural land uses where inputs and outputs of each land use will complement each other. The areas previously used for ranching will be planned for conservation, sustainable timber production and eco tourism.

Ario Ranch is a long-term commitment and we expect to be working on this project for many years to come.

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE: A key component of the project is the CIRENAS mission headed by Caroline Grew and Tucker Szymowiczwhic: “CIRENAS exists to build transformative connections between people and the environment through education, research, integration and innovation”. VIDA will assist the CIRENAS team to plan their campus at Ario Ranch towards the later part of 2011.

www.cirenas.org www.hmdesign.com

RURAL PLANNING AND DESIGN | ARIO RANCH SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT MASTER PLAN


HACIENDA SAN ISIDRO

LOCATION:Pese, Panama

SCALE:800 Hectares

CLIENT:Varela Hermanos

PRJECT TEAM: Bormida & Yanzon + VIDA

SCOPE:Full service Master Planning + Landscape Architecture

VIDA ELEMENTS: Preserving and enhancing the rural landscape, developing authentic hospitality concepts, reinforcing the client's 'brand' through site planning and landscape architecture, utilizing regional material (both soft and hardscape) in new and innovative ways.


RURAL PLANNING AND DESIGN | HACIENDA SAN ISIDRO

PROJECT: VIDA was engaged in early 2010 by the Varela Hermanos S.A to work with Mendoza based architects Bormida & Yanzon (B&Y) to further develop a tourism and improvement strategy developed in 2006 for Hacienda San Isidro. Varela Hermanos’s involvement in the region dates back to 1908 when Don Jose Varela Blanco immigrated from Spain to set up the first sugar mill in the recently formed country of Panama.

Hacienda San Isidro is estimated to be around 800 hectares and is one of the only rum manufacturers who produce 100% of their own sugar cane on the same property as the distillery. Great efforts are made to preserve the heritage of the region by ensuring that portions of the sugar cane crop is cut by hand and transported by bullock teams; maintaining the traditional way of life and supporting local industry - as well as making for a great photo opportunity.

One of the key design elements of the project was to create an arrival experience that celebrated the rugged and expansive beauty of the sugar plantation and the surrounding areas. Through an extensive on-site analysis and site reconnaissance process, VIDA’s team evaluated several arrival routes that engage different highlights of the property and the region.

By working closely with the operations managers of the distillery, B&Y and VIDA have developed a master plan that improves the efficiency of the plant, celebrates the industrial beauty of the operations, creates impressive landscape areas with axises terminated by large-scale art commissions, while consolidating land uses such as service movement, equipment maintenance and staff facilities. VIDA’s team completed 100% of the construction documents for the distillery in January 2011 and is currently working on construction documents for the arrival experience, rum storage facilities, distillery and guest arrival area. The material palette for the hardscape and softscape draws on the indigenous and the cultural landscape to instill a sense of history and rural elegance.

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE:Employing over 700 permanent employees and many more during the Safra (harvest period) the Varela Harmanos are by far the largest employer in the region. VIDA will commence work on the renovation of the historical and charming town of Pese in the coming years where the Varela Hermanos envision creating a regional hub for rural based tourism, artisans and local cuisine. We love this project and we love working with a client with a genuine interest in the development and improvements of the lives of people in rural areas.

www.bormidayanzon.com www.varelahermanos.com


RURAL PLANNING AND DESIGN | HACIENDA SAN ISIDRO

CASTELLO PRIVATE RETREAT

LOCATION:Umbria, Italy

SCALE:5 Hectares

CLIENT:Confidential

PROJECT TEAM:FormaTerra (VIDA + Marco Battaggia), Studio Minchilli Architects

SCOPE: Full-service Landscape Architecture

VIDA ELEMENTS:Creating a strong, collaborative team with Marco, Studio Minchilli and the client to cultivate a shared vision based on contemporary landscape elements that complement the property’s history, the surrounding landscape’s inherent beauty, key siting issues (including protection from winter winds while providing solar access), utilizing regional materials and styles, and planning low water-use, low maintenance gardens.


PRIVATE ESCAPES AND RETREATS | CASTELLO PRIVATE RETREAT

PROJECT: In the summer of 2011, Marco and VIDA were engaged by the client and Studio Minchilli Architects to develop a Landscape Master Plan that would complement this restored castle-turned-private-retreat. At 580 meters above sea level, the nearly 5 hectare property is situated in a commanding position overlooking the Valle del Tevere (Valley of the Tiber River) in Umbria, Italy. Dating from the XII century, the core structure was (in all likelihood) originally used as a monastery and has undergone many changes as each new generation adapted the structure to meet their needs.

On our first visit to the property, we were awestruck by the aspect of the property – it felt as if everything you could see in the rolling landscape falling below the property belonged to the estate; a castle in the truest sense. Surrounded on three sides by low woodlands and overgrown olive groves, the fourth side is characterized by a large, open meadow expanding to the southwest. The project elements are being organized on a series of strong visual axis and geometrical lines that will provide the owners and visiting guests with a sense of the property’s expansiveness and the grandeur of the surrounding

countryside while taking-in the grounds and estate amenities.Working closely with Marco, Studio Minchilli and the owner’s representatives, we are spending many hours on site sketching and testing our concepts, walking the property, and exploring the castle’s architectural restoration works. Following each site meeting we’ve been refining the design back in the studio where we will begin developing final construction drawings for the landscape and garden during the fall of 2011.

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE: There have been five documented construction interventions on the structure starting in the XII century when the original nucleus was created for a (probable) monastery. The towers and wall fortifications where built in the XV century. A small chapel was added to the structure in the XVIII century. Farmers adapted the structure in the beginning of the XX century, while more recent modifications where done in the 80’s. The current restoration works on the structure and surrounding landscape will eventually become another layer of the estate’s rich historical strata.


PRIVATE ESCAPES AND RETREATS | CASTELLO PRIVATE RETREAT PRIVATE ESCAPES AND RETREATS | CASTELLO PRIVATE RETREAT

CENTER CITY ARTS

LOCATION:Erie, Pennsylvania USA

SCALE:2 Hectares (5 Acres)

CLIENT:Stairways Behavioral Health

PROJECT TEAM: Kidder Wachter Architecture + VIDA


VIDA ELEMENTS: Providing comfortable, flexible and creative facilities throughout the campus to explore, create, grow, and relax. Sensory landscapes that evolve and change through the seasons offer the opportunity for users of the campus to connect with the natural cycle. Taking an active role in demonstrating how biodiversity and stormwater management in Erie’s urban landscapes can be improved by implementing best-practice methods throughout the development of the campus landscape architecture.

URBAN DESIGN | CENTER CITY ARTS


PROJECT: Center City Arts (CCA) is a program of Stairways Behavioral Health that provides a unique and pressure-free arts experience open to those who have recovered, or are recovering, from a mental illness, and those who assist them in that journey. Beyond this, our clients believe “in the healing and transformative power of creative expression and integrative wellness - not only for those who may be experiencing difficulty, but for all who seek self-exploration and personal growth”.

In late 2011, Stairways Behavioral Health (SBH) engaged VIDA to assist with the preparation of a Strategic Master Plan for the Center City Arts campus located on the former Rose Koehler Curtze estate in the central city neighborhood of Erie, Pennsylvania USA. VIDA is preparing creative design solutions and an overall Master Plan that will help Stairways, Center City Arts and their partners begin the process of transforming their vision and goals into an enriching reality. VIDA and SBH invited KidderWachter Architecture and Design to participate in the master planning process, adding valuable local knowledge regarding the campus architecture and planning requirements.

Over the course of several months, VIDA has lead an interactive and participatory design process engaging the client, various interest groups, donors, local government officials and community groups. Central to this process was a five-day, on-site workshop in which all of the various stakeholders actively participated and provided rich insights for the master planning process. A highlight from the workshop was a metaphysical analysis in which all participants engaged their six senses in the site's natural landscape in order to solidify the design approach. VIDA is currently working with SBH on refining the Master Plan as well as providing assistance, as required, with the project’s financial and development strategy.

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE: The original owner of this property was Rose Koehler Curtze, whose parents gifted the estate to her and Adolf as a wedding gift in 1891. Rose was heiress and principal stockholder of the Koehler Brewing Company, founded by her grandfather Charles Koehler. Rose’s hospitality is a legacy shared by Stairways’ founders and embedded in the philosophy of Center City Arts – a universal welcoming spirit permeates the future vision for this tranquil property.

www.centercityartserie.org

URBAN DESIGN | CENTER CITY ARTS


RESIDENCIA CACHO ELETA

LOCATION: El Valle de Antón, Panama

SCALE: 8,200 m2

CLIENT: Familia Cacho Eleta

PROJECT TEAM: JMV Architects + VIDA

SCOPE: Full-service Landscape Architecture

VIDA ELEMENTS: Strong indoor-outdoor connection, fire pit, arbor walk, use of local materials and construction techniques, above surface drainage, integrated stormwater management.


PRIVATE ESCAPES AND RETREATS | RESIDENCIA CACHO ELETA

PROJECT: For this project our design team worked closely with the client to develop innovative and unique ways to integrate their personal needs and requirements of the exterior spaces.

This residence is located in El Valle de Antón, Panama. This region is characterized by fertile soils, cool climate, and an abundance of water with diverse endemic vegetation. Due to its proximity to the capital, El Valle is a popular second home community for many Panamanian families seeking refuge from the heat of Panama City. For this reason, the client is planning to use the residence and external spaces for extended periods of daily life as well as to entertain friends and family.

The master plan for this residence includes a large swimming pool, Jacuzzi, outdoor entertaining terrace, fire pit, arrival fountain, a range of built-in and movable seating, ornamental pond and exotic tropical gardens.

The residence is currently under construction and VIDA has project managed all aspects of the project's installation – from negotiating the terms of each contract, to overseeing the accounts of the contractors and suppliers. VIDA has also coordinated the importation of artisan pavement products and plant material from Costa Rica to realize the design vision.

The project is reaching the final stage of installation and we plan to complete the project by the dry season of 2011.

INTERESTING PROJECT NOTE: One of the key issues with the property was dealing with the surface water and seepage from the nearby mountains. Rather than looking to traditional engineering solutions, VIDA chose to open up the corridors of surface and spring drainage to create a meandering stream where the soothing sounds of water can be heard throughout the year. The stream is crossed in several points by bridges that further enhance the garden's sense of discovery.

TESTIMONIAL: SENORA GRACIELA ELETAWe are delighted to work with VIDA on our new home. I grew up spending summers in El Valle, a small community in the mountains where everything grows to extraordinary heights. I have some of my fondest childhood memories living in El Valle so we decided to build a second home there (although we live in Puerto Rico). My passion for gardens, trees, flowers and ferns has been a constant in my life and I wanted to build my “ideal” garden in this new home. When I asked for suggestions, I got many including Ana. Everything they said was true and much more.

Ana is a dedicated professional with strong knowledge of tropical gardens and design. But her real contributions go much further! She has led the design of all outdoor areas, including pool, outdoor porch, poolside cabana (bohio), car entrance, fountains and walkways/trellis. Ana’s positive, can-do attitude, her initiative, amazing taste, resourcefulness and follow-through have made our partnership such a wonderful experience.


PRIVATE ESCAPES AND RETREATS | RESIDENCIA CACHO ELETA

costa rica studioP.O Box 582-1250San Jose Costa RicaTel + 506 2228 88 57

panama studioCalle GEdificio EmilyAPT 7B, El [email protected]

australia studio Coming...

we vis ion master plan des ign spaces for l ife | vidadesignstudio.com

italy studioBorgo degli Albizi, 1450122 Florence, ItalyTel +39 0553860790Cell +39 3463056675

Documents

Vida Brochure