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The Cost of New Creative Directors
In the efforts to attract new audiences and stay relevant in an evolving luxury market, creative directors are often tasked with rebranding renowned fashion houses. While this injects a fresh perspective to a Maison and opens the opportunity for profits, it can also be something of a double-edged sword that could chip away at the “true essence” of the founder’s heritage, shifting the focus from legacy to trend-driven appeal. As designers reinterpret brand histories through selective eras or aesthetics, the risk of diluting tradition grows, leaving fashion giants in a constant cycle of balancing reinvention at the expense of authenticity.
Rise of the “Rebranding” Era
The luxury fashion industry operates at a crossroads — where heritage and reinvention are constantly at odds. Previous years have seen the former appointments of visionary creative directors like Alessandro Michele at Gucci and Hedi Slimane at Saint Laurent illustrating how the industry (or rather their conglomerates) prioritises a bold, contemporary overhaul to captivate new audiences. Michele’s maximalist, vintage-inspired take propelled Gucci to fresh cultural relevance, while Slimane’s Saint Laurent fixated on the rock-and-roll aesthetic — sidelining other aspects of Yves Saint Laurent’s legacy. These shifts may generate buzz and financial success, but they often leave behind the nuanced, multifaceted heritage of the original founders.
Yves Saint Laurent was pivotal in shaping the 1960s mod era, introducing sharp tailoring, A-line silhouettes and clean, architectural lines that were more refined than the grunge-heavy Saint Laurent of today. His designs for women, like the 1966 Le Smoking tuxedo and safari jackets, embodied a forward-thinking modernity that was bold yet elegant. During his tenure, Slimane cemented the brand’s reputation as the go-to for skinny jeans, biker jackets and indie-rock aesthetics, largely omitting Saint Laurent’s more refined innovations. His version of Saint Laurent became synonymous with punk and youth subcultures, but at the cost of other dimensions of the brand’s heritage. Hedi Slimane’s interpretation of Saint Laurent’s legacy prioritised the brand’s rock-and-roll persona, but this narrow lens overlooks the full breadth of Yves Saint Laurent’s innovative fashion — from the renowned le smoking tuxedo jacket to his embrace of global inspirations. In focusing on one chapter, the brand lost the richness of its founder’s multidimensional story.
Similarly, it was McQueen’s dramatic silhouettes, controversial narratives and conceptual runway showcases inspired by historical events, personal struggles or macabre fairy tales — that challenged fashion norms. When Sarah Burton took over as creative director, she carried on McQueen’s craftsmanship but steered the brand toward a more wearable, commercially palatable aesthetic. While her designs retained McQueen’s appreciation for intricate details and couture-level execution, they lacked the raw, provocative edge that made his work so distinctive.
Despite this, Burton’s McQueen was successful, and her tenure was marked by technically brilliant designs. However, it was arguably tamer, prioritising elegance over shock value. Now, with Sean McGirr taking over, there is speculation about whether McQueen’s original daring spirit will return or if the brand will continue down a more “commercial” path. That being said, having a collection with “commercial” appeal is not necessarily a bad thing as evidenced by the success of Sarah Burton’s tenure and Maria Grazia Churi at Dior.
The Fine Line Between Evolution and Erasure
Maintaining a brand’s DNA while catering to modern audiences is an increasingly delicate balancing act. At Dior, Maria Grazia Chiuri’s feminist-driven collections have reshaped the house’s identity, infusing it with new cultural relevance — but at the expense of the romantic, architectural silhouettes that once defined Christian Dior’s vision. Similarly, Virginie Viard’s Chanel leans into the ease of wearability, yet risks diluting the theatrical craftsmanship that Karl Lagerfeld cemented as the brand’s modern identity. The challenge for these brands is not just about staying relevant but ensuring that reinvention does not come at the cost of heritage.
Under Lagerfeld, Chanel experienced immense commercial success, yet his embrace of casual wear — T-shirts and even menswear — diverted the focus from the intricate, artistic side of Chanel that had made the brand a symbol of Parisian haute couture. Virginie Viard’s tenure has been marked by a softer, more approachable aesthetic that feels safe compared to Lagerfeld’s daring creations. While this has resonated with some consumers, it is also seen by some as less “groundbreaking”, losing the edge that Chanel once had.
Kim Jones — who draws inspiration from Christian Dior’s life and eccentricities — has successfully reinterpreted the brand’s legacy, offering a modern, gender-fluid perspective without losing its spirit. His Dior Men collections introduce layers of personal connection to the founder, giving consumers a deeper emotional bond to the brand. By referencing Dior’s life and eccentricities, Jones invites consumers to connect with the history of the brand on a deeper, more personal level. This adds layers to the designs and gives the collections emotional depth, rather than presenting them as mere reinventions of past glories. It enriches the brand narrative without losing its identity. Jones does not simply replicate Dior’s designs or ideas but reinterprets them, reflecting how the house’s rich history can be recontextualised in today’s fashion landscape. For example, he may reference Dior’s passion for gardens or the iconic New Look but adapts them with a modern, sometimes gender-fluid, sensibility that speaks to a new generation of luxury consumers.
Demna arguably played a huge role in transforming the Maison into a cultural phenomenon but was at times criticised for not successfully bridging his approach with Cristóbal Balenciaga’s original vision. His designs include everything from dystopian aesthetics and meme-worthy footwear (like the sock sneaker and Crocs collaborations) to provocative ad campaigns. Despite the contrast, Demna has echoed Balenciaga’s original craftsmanship in some ways. His tailoring — particularly in structured coats and draped dresses — nods to Cristóbal’s technical genius. However, his prioritisation of branding, streetwear and shock value has, at times, overshadowed this aspect.
Unlike many other luxury houses, Louis Vuitton has managed to modernise while remaining true to its origins. Founded in 1854 as a trunk-making company, Louis Vuitton’s DNA remains deeply embedded in its roots of travel. While creative directors like Marc Jacobs, Kim Jones, Virgil Abloh and now Pharrell Williams have introduced contemporary elements, the brand’s core identity — luxury travel — remains intact. Its iconic monogram, steamer trunks and travel-inspired accessories continue to be a cornerstone of its identity.
Unlike Saint Laurent or Balenciaga — which have undergone extreme transformations — Louis Vuitton’s evolution has been more seamless. Even with streetwear collaborations and experimental designs, its heritage as a trunkmaker and its commitment to artisanal craftsmanship remain central.
What Comes Next: The Future of Fashion’s Heritage Houses
As fashion moves into a new era of creative leadership, questions arise about whether heritage brands will continue reshaping their pasts or if the industry will see a return to their founding principles. Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel and Jonathan Anderson’s potential move to Dior Men could redefine house codes with a fresh perspective, while Alessandro Michele’s Valentino may pay closer homage to Valentino Garavani’s original elegance. On the other hand, history has proven that some of fashion’s most admired rebrands — from John Galliano’s extravagant Dior to Hedi Slimane’s singular take on YSL — had little resemblance to their founders’ original visions.
As it stands, Demna’s tenure at Balenciaga is at an end and he is moving to Gucci. Donatella Versace is stepping down from her role as creative director. Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez — the visionary duo behind Proenza Schouler — are set to succeed Jonathan Anderson as LOEWE’s new creative directors. Matthieu Blazy moves to Chanel while Glenn Martens makes a move to Maison Margiela. Louise Trotter will be at the helm of Bottega Veneta while Michael Rider is at Celine and Simone Bellotti is Jil Sander. Jonathan Anderson is rumoured to be heading to Dior as roles in Fendi and Balenciaga are still open. As the fashion industry continue on its game of musical chairs, these brands will face tough decisions about how to evolve while maintaining their original identities.
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Modern Luxury Watches Honour Tradition to Define the Future
In luxury watchmaking, tradition has long been synonymous with prestige, craftsmanship and enduring value. Yet, in an industry that thrives on legacy, innovation is reshaping age-old traditions. While established Maisons continue to safeguard centuries-old techniques, a new wave of watchmakers is redefining heritage — some by reviving lost crafts, others by forging entirely new identities. Today, tradition in watchmaking is no longer just inherited; it is actively reimagined, proving that legacy and modernity can coexist in unexpected ways.
While heritage watch brands preserve centuries-old craftsmanship to maintain their prestige, a new wave of watchmakers is redefining tradition by either reviving historical techniques or forging entirely new identities — proving that in modern luxury watchmaking, tradition is not just inherited but continuously reinvented. Luxury watchmaking today reflects three distinct approaches to tradition: heritage brands that have upheld their craftsmanship for generations, new watchmakers reviving historical techniques and modern disruptors creating their own traditions while redefining value.
Category: Non-broken heritage brands, Time-Honoured Traditions
The first category focuses on the non-broken heritage brands that have maintained their legacy over centuries, such as Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin and Rolex. These brands are revered not only for their exceptional craftsmanship but for their ability to evolve with the times, incorporating modern features like smart technology while keeping their traditional roots intact.
Rolex
While Rolex may be renowned for its robust tool watches, its commitment to precision and innovation is deeply embedded in its watchmaking heritage. The introduction of the first waterproof Oyster case, the development of the perpetual movement and the innovation of the Parachrom hairspring are just a few examples of how Rolex continues to evolve while remaining true to its legacy. For Rolex, a watch is not just a timekeeping instrument; it is an institution, one that stands as a symbol of excellence and precision. Modern Rolex watches bear the title of “Superlative Chronometer,” a designation that assures owners of superior performance across several key areas, including precision, robustness and durability. This certification — unique to Rolex — guarantees an exceptional precision of –2/+2 seconds per day, surpassing the standards of the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC).
Rolex’s commitment to creating the finest watches is evident in every aspect of its designs, from the materials used to the exacting standards upheld in production. The brand’s proprietary Oystersteel, for example, is a highly corrosion-resistant alloy, while the scratchproof Cerachrom bezels ensure that each timepiece remains pristine over the years. Rolex watches undergo rigorous testing to ensure they endure extreme conditions, whether worn by an explorer, a diver or a mountaineer. In fact, each watch is subjected to tests that simulate real-world wear and tear, from salt exposure to temperature extremes, ensuring that the finished product is both durable and reliable. Despite its technological advancements, Rolex remains true to the belief that simplicity is a measure of performance. The Cosmograph Daytona, for instance, is an exemplary model of Rolex’s philosophy, containing only 314 components while offering exceptional timing precision. This dedication to simplification and reliability extends to the development of new models, such as the Sky-Dweller — which despite its complex functionality — operates with remarkable ease.
Patek Philippe
Patek Philippe’s reputation as a leader in the world of horology is built on its unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. Few names command as much respect in watchmaking and the brand’s legacy is defined by its ability to balance tradition with progressive design. Known for its meticulous hand-finishing and technical mastery, Patek Philippe has remained fiercely independent, ensuring that each timepiece meets the brand’s exacting standards. The Grand Complications collection — with its perpetual calendars, minute repeaters and celestial movements — epitomises the brand’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking while maintaining an unrelenting focus on precision.
The Cubitus collection marks a bold departure from the brand’s traditional design language, introducing the first square wristwatch in Patek Philippe’s history. This is a significant move, demonstrating the brand’s ability to innovate while preserving its heritage of technical excellence. By embracing modern aesthetics and incorporating familiar Patek elements — such as integrated bracelets and high-quality hand-finishing — the Cubitus offers a fresh perspective on the brand’s approach to luxury sports watches. While it pushes new boundaries in design, the Cubitus remains anchored in Patek Philippe’s core values, making it both a bold evolution and a fitting continuation of the brand’s storied legacy.
Vacheron Constantin
The story of Vacheron Constantin is one of passion, perseverance and unrelenting pursuit of excellence. The Maison’s legacy is not merely built on technical innovation but on a deep respect for artistry and tradition. Each timepiece is a reflection of this balance — an enduring tribute to the watchmaking craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.
As the longest continuously operating watchmaker, Vacheron Constantin has crafted timepieces that transcend mere function, embodying artistry and precision in equal measure. Since 1755, the Maison has been at the forefront of Swiss watchmaking, creating pieces for royalty, collectors and connoisseurs alike. From the ultra-complicated Les Cabinotiers collection to the refined elegance of the Patrimony range, Vacheron Constantin continues to define the art of horology.
As part of the celebrations for its 270th anniversary in 2025, Vacheron Constantin introduces the reissue of the iconic Historiques 222 in stainless steel. This release marks the first of many milestones throughout the year, honouring both the brand’s storied past and its forward-thinking vision. The anniversary festivities also include the immersive exhibition The Quest: 270 Years of Seeking Excellence — having debut in Abu Dhabi in February 2025 — offering a glimpse into the Maison’s rich heritage and its commitment to future innovation. This global exhibition will journey through the world’s luxury hubs, continuing to showcase the values that have defined Vacheron Constantin since its founding.
Category: New Brands, Revived Traditional
The second category explores how new brands are breathing new life into traditional watchmaking methods, merging them with modern aesthetics to capture the attention of a new generation of collectors. Drawing from the rich heritage of Swiss watchmaking, these brands are putting a fresh spin on time-honoured techniques, creating timepieces that appeal to today’s luxury consumers who seek both innovation and craftsmanship.
Romain Gauthier
Romain Gauthier — an independent watchmaker of exceptional renown — has earned a place alongside the likes of F.P. Journe for his unmatched blend of traditional hand-finishing and cutting-edge engineering. His approach is all about pushing the technical boundaries of watchmaking while still honouring the finest craftsmanship. Take, for example, his Logical One, a timepiece that exemplifies this fusion of innovation and meticulous finishing.
One of the most remarkable pieces in his portfolio is the Freedom Continuum, a watch that embodies Gauthier’s signature style of precision and artistry. This limited edition of just 28 pieces is a testament to the brand’s commitment to exclusivity and craftsmanship. While Romain Gauthier may not be as widely recognised as some of the larger names in haute horlogerie, his influence and expertise are undeniable. In fact, Gauthier played an integral role in the creation of the movement for a high-profile Chanel watch, further cementing his reputation among collectors and connoisseurs. This timepiece is a perfect reflection of Gauthier’s ability to merge traditional watchmaking techniques with forward-thinking designs, creating a luxury sports watch that appeals to a global market of discerning collectors. With its high level of hand-finishing and innovative use of materials, the Freedom Continuum has quickly become one of the most coveted pieces for collectors seeking something distinct in the world of high-end sports watches.
Kudoke
KUDOKE — founded in 2005 by German independent watchmaker Stefan Kudoke — has quickly established itself as a standout in the world of haute horlogerie. As one of the youngest recognised Master Craftsmen (Deutsche Meisterbrief) in Glashütte at just 22, Kudoke’s journey into the horological elite has been marked by a blend of technical mastery and artistic refinement. An AHCI member and GPHG Laureate, he made history as the first independent German watchmaker to win the prestigious Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) Petite Aiguille award.
KUDOKE’s timepieces are revered by collectors for their refined, hand-finished craftsmanship, staying true to the traditional German schools of watchmaking. A standout in their collection is the in-house KALIBER 1 movement, which powers the HANDwerk series. Developed by Kudoke, this movement epitomises his commitment to excellence, with meticulous hand-engraving and finishing that honours the art of traditional watchmaking. The HANDwerk series exemplifies KUDOKE’s philosophy of merging precision with artistry, offering collectors a glimpse into the heritage of German watchmaking. Today, KUDOKE watches are available at Sincere Fine Watches and SHH boutiques in Singapore and Malaysia, offering discerning collectors a chance to experience the elegance and craftsmanship of this celebrated independent brand.
New Traditions: Watchmakers Creating a Legacy of Their Own
Not all modern luxury watches are tied to centuries-old traditions. Some brands are carving out entirely new identities, combining futuristic materials, radical designs and high-performance movements to redefine what a luxury watch can be. These companies are building their own legacies, often combining high-tech features, unique materials and distinctive designs to create timepieces that resonate with modern buyers who want more than just a functional watch. These watches represent not just a new style but a new chapter in the story of watchmaking.
Hublot
Hublot is known for pushing the boundaries of traditional design by incorporating high-tech materials and innovative features that appeal to modern buyers who value both aesthetics and functionality. For example, their use of materials like ceramic, titanium and their proprietary King Gold combined with modern design techniques, creates timepieces that feel contemporary while maintaining the craftsmanship associated with luxury watches. Case in point, Hublot’s Big Bang Integrated Time Only 38mm is a bold reinterpretation of its signature design. While the larger Big Bang models have been central to Hublot’s identity, this 38mm version represents a move towards something more compact, yet still filled with the same distinctive features that have become synonymous with the brand. The watch retains the signature “ears,” the six H-shaped screws around the bezel, and the rubber composite inserts between the case and bezel, all of which contribute to its unique, recognisable design. These elements are not just for show but are part of what makes the Big Bang collection so iconic.
One of the key features of the Big Bang Integrated Time Only 38mm is its unisex appeal. With its integrated bracelet and range of material options, including brushed titanium and Hublot’s King Gold, the watch embraces a more versatile design. Additionally, the dial’s ferromagnetic steel construction ensures protection against magnetic fields, an uncommon feature in most watches. The HUB1115 movement — with a 48-hour power reserve — drives the watch, adding a level of technical innovation to its design. This movement, while not a Unico calibre, represents a first for the Big Bang collection and speaks to Hublot’s ongoing pursuit of blending tradition with modernity.
Roger Dubuis
Roger Dubuis stands out as a brand that embraces traditional watchmaking while boldly reinterpreting it through a contemporary lens. Certified with the prestigious Poinçon de Genève, the brand maintains the highest standards of craftsmanship yet presents its creations with an audacious, modern aesthetic. The Excalibur Spider Flyback Chronograph exemplifies this balance, showcasing intricate mechanical complications such as the column wheel and vertical clutch while re-engineering their placement for a striking visual impact. By positioning the column wheel at the front of the calibre — rather than the conventional bridge-side — the brand challenges traditional norms while staying true to its horological roots.
This fusion of heritage and innovation extends beyond the technical aspects of its timepieces. Roger Dubuis strategically aligns its watches with motorsport culture, a modern narrative that reinforces its bold identity. The Flyback Chronograph, for instance, was launched at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, highlighting the synergy between high-performance engineering and fine watchmaking. Similarly, the brand’s presence at Watches & Wonders transforms the traditional watch fair experience into a spectacle, drawing in audiences who may be entirely new to the world of haute horology. This reflects a broader shift in luxury watchmaking, where heritage brands are no longer just about preserving the past but actively engaging with contemporary culture.
Beyond technical mastery, Roger Dubuis also redefines how luxury watches are marketed and experienced. Rather than focusing solely on transactions, the brand prioritises storytelling, creating conversations that foster deeper connections with collectors and newcomers alike. This approach mirrors the evolving landscape of modern luxury watchmaking, where tradition remains at the heart of the craft but is continuously reimagined to captivate a new generation.
Franck Muller
Franck Muller’s name is synonymous with audacious innovation, a brand that bridges the gap between the time-honoured techniques of Swiss watchmaking and bold, contemporary design. His creations — particularly the Cintrée Curvex — challenge conventional aesthetics with their sweeping curves and complex, sculptural forms. However, Muller’s true brilliance lies in his ability to marry artistry with mechanical mastery, employing intricate complications like the Tourbillon and Minute Repeater in timepieces that are both technically advanced and visually striking. By embracing modern technology while honouring Swiss horological traditions, Franck Muller ensures that each of his pieces remains an intricate fusion of heritage and cutting-edge design, securing his place as a visionary within the world of luxury watchmaking.
Franck Muller continues to assert his mastery of horological innovation with the Long Island Evolution Master Jumper, a groundbreaking timepiece that pushes the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. Featuring an instantaneous triple-jumping mechanism, the watch synchronises hours, minutes and dates through mechanical digital indicators — an unprecedented achievement in the world of luxury watches. This creation is powered by the manual-winding FM 3100-L movement, a marvel of precision, with five rotating discs to facilitate the jumping action. The watch’s design — housed in a brushed titanium case with a green anodised aluminium bezel — speaks to Franck Muller’s meticulous craftsmanship, as only 100 pieces will be made, exclusively for the Asia-Pacific market. The Master Jumper’s exceptional mechanism and innovative presentation are a testament to Franck Muller’s reputation as the “Master of Complications,” capturing the essence of modern horological tradition while securing his place as a pioneer in the future of watchmaking.
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Monday, March 24, 2025
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Modern Costa Rican Architecture: Visionary Insights from Roderick Anderson, CEO of SARCO Architects
Image copyright Andres Garcia Lachner
Costa Rica is increasingly becoming a sought-after destination for building luxury dream homes, attracting discerning individuals seeking modern, luxurious residences in a pristine tropical setting. Here, we delve into the visionary behind SARCO Architects Costa Rica in an exclusive interview with Roderick Anderson, CEO and Design Director. With a rich family legacy spanning over five decades, Roderick continues to upscale luxury residential architecture in this vibrant Central American nation. Consistently honored by Luxury Lifestyle Awards as Best Luxury Residential Architect Studio in Costa Rica, SARCO Architects exemplifies innovation and excellence in crafting bespoke modern homes. Join us as we explore SARCO’s recent award-winning project, Villa Avellana, and unveil insights into creating dream homes in Costa Rica for international clients.
Luxury Lifestyle Awards(LLA): Hi Roderick, it has become a tradition for us to speak with you annually and delve into SARCO Architects’ award-winning projects. To what do you attribute the consistent success of your company and projects year after year?
Roderick Anderson(RA): I believe this is because, at our core, we are an architectural firm with a clear client-centric approach. We deeply care about each of our clients and the projects that we design for them. We like to get to know our clients, and understand the elements that are important for them, what they truly value, and then design in a way that responds to them. We really dedicate the time, effort, and thought to these projects and how to bring our signature integrated design approach, bringing the architecture, interiors, and lighting details all as a single design process.
Image copyright Andres Garcia Lachner
LLA: Villa Avellana has been recognised numerous times by prestigious awards, including LLA. Can you describe the inspiration behind Villa Avellana and what sets it apart as one of SARCO Architects’ most outstanding projects?
RA: Villa Avellana was a truly unique project and one that we fully embraced from the beginning. Our client was a frequent visitor to Costa Rica and would constantly rent a very expensive villa in the resort, and decided it was time to own a villa of his own. At the same time, he had a vision of making this villa the absolute best from a service and experience level for the guests. So we had an opportunity to design something that at its core is a home, but when you take a wider look it’s much more than a home. Villa Avellana is a project that is designed to feel like an amazing residence, but one that addresses the best creature comforts for large groups. An ultimate-experience villa.
Image copyright Andres Garcia Lachner
LLA: How did the unique natural setting of Villa Avellana influence the architectural design and overall experience for guests?
RA: Absolutely. The beachfront location of this project brought to our hands a very different design approach and thought process. Most of our projects are usually perched on a hillside, so the focus of the design is the view. In Villa Avellana, being down low and on a beachfront site made that even though the views were still important, we had to think about the home’s integration with the surrounding site all around. The outdoor spaces, more than being areas to enjoy time outdoors, became areas where guests could unwind, have an array of different spaces to come together or have some solo time, all while giving the home a direct connection to the beach, integrating the beach activities and flowing the experience from the home to the beach seamlessly.
LLA: What were some of the key challenges you faced in designing a luxury residence like Villa Avellana?
RA: We had two opposing concepts that we had to somehow bring together. On one hand, we had a project brief that called for a very large residence, with a multitude of spaces to serve and house large groups of guests, and on the other hand, we had a site with limited space and zoning and resort restrictions. The mesh of those two elements was the big challenge we were constantly up against. Also, one of the important aspects of the ultra-luxury home experience brief was to somehow make the service needs of the home invisible to the guests. This brought another element into the mix and that in combination with the site, the steep uphill slope present at the back of the property, created a multitude of difficult challenges that we needed to solve.
Image copyright Andres Garcia Lachner
LLA: Could you elaborate on the sustainability aspects integrated into Villa Avellana, particularly regarding materials and energy-efficient systems?
RA: Sustainability is always at the core of our design ethos. However, we like to believe that we have a practical approach instead of a theoretical approach to sustainability. It begins with energy efficiency. We have a clear understanding that people enjoy Costa Rica for the warm weather and the connection to nature. Our designs usually incorporate welcome areas, hallways, staircases, etc., as outdoor spaces, they become experience areas where people enjoy the natural breeze, the sounds of the ocean, and the sounds of nature. This approach minimizes the spaces that we need to spend energy to air condition. Careful architectural aspects to making the home efficient is also key. Our technological approach to design allows us to run energy evaluation reports during the schematic design stage, improve the home’s performance via orientation and extensive overhangs, and incorporate architectural elements to control solar and heat gain. From the materials aspect, we try to use local natural materials to reduce the carbon footprint of transport. Selection of manufactured materials is always done considering the brand’s sustainability approach to production and recycling of waste, etc.
LLA: The SARCO System
is renowned for its seamless remote architectural process. How was this system employed in the design and construction phases of Villa Avellana? – if it was.
RA: Like all our projects, the remote service to our clients is always at the center of our services. Our client was a very busy business individual, and we needed to make the process easy, clear, and straightforward for him. The use of 3D visualization and interactive design models that our client could use and experience easily on his devices were key elements to design communication during the entire project process. Also, our client online information hub would make access to project presentations, selections, product discussions, etc., easy and accessible from anywhere.
Image copyright Andres Garcia Lachner
LLA: Could you elaborate on SARCO Architects’ Integrated Design Approach and how it facilitated the successful realization of Villa Avellana?
RA: We approach our projects with a process where architecture, interiors, and lighting blend together and interact directly in the design of the project and its spaces. Once a schematic design is complete and we begin the design development of the project, we start this interactive approach between these main design elements, where we are thinking about interior details, lighting design and the mood and accents it creates, and the selection of materials and how it interacts with all these aspects. Having these three design main design components under our umbrella, instead of being handled by external design teams, allows us to experiment, try things, iterate, and make design decisions with a firm and quick approach. In Villa Avellana this was at the core of our design approach. Many spaces in the home exude this approach, but probably the main living space more than others. There we have a combination of the all-glass space to enjoy the natural setting, the design of a custom wood panel ceiling that incorporates invisible magnetic lighting tracks where we could design the lighting customized for the living and the dining area (each with different lighting feel and mood). We also integrated the invisible architectural slots for the air conditioning system and hid away the A/V system that provides a large projection screen to enjoy media when desired. All these components would be a pain to design and coordinate successfully, however as we control the totality of the design elements, for us is not only possible but successful.
Image copyright Andres Garcia Lachner
LLA: How does SARCO ensure that international clients can confidently build their dream homes in Costa Rica without being physically present? Could you elaborate on the processes and technologies SARCO employs to maintain quality and client satisfaction throughout the remote building process?
RA: We have been working with international clients now for over 20 years. We understand that our clients have busy lives and schedules, therefore we focus on providing our services so that a project is not another complicated thing making life difficult for our clients. Our online communication hub with our clients is active from design all the way through project completion. This is a way where our clients are always in the loop of the project’s progress and involved in any updates, changes, or decisions that need to be made. Also, our integrated design approach to our projects plays a huge role in this as well. Since we put so much time in making sure that all design and client decisions are done in the design phase, all the questions are answered and decisions are made, then during construction, there is very little that our clients need to be active and involved in. Our team takes care of everything needed during construction so that the project is seamless and effective all the way through.
Image copyright Andres Garcia Lachner
LLA: What makes Costa Rica an ideal destination for building luxury dream homes, and why do so many successful people choose to escape here to create modern luxury residences?
RA: Costa Rica is geographically located in a very advantageous location. It is close enough to North America so there is a multitude of direct flights available from main cities in the USA and Canada. Direct flights from many European cities are also more and more common. Also, the International Airport in Liberia, Guanacaste, allows people who travel in private jets to a very convenient destination that is close to the main beach areas and locations where they can build their luxury home. The warm weather, beautiful natural setting, natural fauna, elevated ocean views, and stunning sunsets are all elements that many of our clients truly treasure. Also, there are options of luxury resort destinations where successful HNW individuals can choose a property to build their luxury getaway and still have the amenities and conveniences they need.
In this exclusive interview with Roderick Anderson, we have gained invaluable insights into modern home Costa Rica architecture. Roderick’s dedication to upscaling luxury residential architecture, combined with SARCO’s exemplary integration of sustainability and cutting-edge technology, continues to set new benchmarks in the field. As Costa Rica solidifies its reputation as a prime location for tropical luxury homes, SARCO Architects stands out as a leader, ensuring international clients can confidently create their dream residences in this idyllic setting, even from afar.
For more information about SARCO Architects Costa Rica, visit https://www.sarcoarchitects.com/
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