The memorable landscape architectural designs at Mukul highlight the native features of the site, as well as the rich horticultural diversity found in the Pacific Region. Connecting the built environment to the land is achieved by minimal disruption to the site and preserving its native flora and the site’s many geologic features. Landscape solutions repair disturbed vegetation, use only indigenous plantings, and draw upon the rich and varied botanical species available to create a resort environment which is alive with seasonal change, vibrant color, and the fragrances of the garden.
Sustainable design principles for this formerly undeveloped portion of Nicaragua include structures that optimize natural ventilation, rainwater collection for treatment and re-use, harnessing solar power, and employing electrical vehicles and bicycles for transportation throughout the site. A remarkable environmental initiative involves a partnership with farmers to protect the water sources of local residents. Financial incentives encourage the preservation of trees, the reforestation of barren areas, and water catchment strategies. Mukul’s support for the local community extends to educational opportunities and decorating the resort with furnishings made by local artisans.
Overlooking the sea, this boutique development currently offers 12 beach villas and 23 mountainside bohios all designed as suites. The property also hosts a 7,800-square-foot private suite compound and a 20,000-square-foot private residence. Additionally, the resort hosts a spa and a beach club. The larger property will eventually house forty residential lots and six beachfront villas.
Bishops Lodge
Bishop’s Lodge Resort is a 66-acre parcel situated along valleys and ridges in the high New Mexican desert, four miles from downtown Santa Fe, known for its history, natural beauty, outdoor activities, and isolated location. The core of the resort is composed of a number of individual lodge-style buildings, along with the historically significant 150+-ye...
Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina
The design team’s challenge was to re-envision the existing hotel as a premier luxury destination that employs aspects of local culture and heritage to create a unique sense of place. An existing pool and water features were renovated, two new pools added, and restaurants enhanced. The resulting Four Seasons Hotel redevelopment and new residences by partner To...
Las Ventanas al Paraiso
On the Baja peninsula a seemingly lifeless landscape meets the Sea of Cortez in a dramatic vista of eroded mountains, sand and sea, creating one of the most diverse biomes on the planet. The term “sustainable” was not typically in use at the time Las Ventanas al Paraiso was conceived nearly 20 years ago, but the landscape architect nonetheless inherently recog...
Sanya Edition
This Ian Schrager-helmed Haitang Bay resort off the coast of Southern China was conceived as a “dream of aqua,” where sky and water converge. SWA’s competition-winning landscape design emulates a river delta and its convergence with the sea. Gently curved forms define the boundaries for 40 private villas, and are echoed throughout the terraced resort in ...