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.
La Cantera
Perched atop one of the highest points in San Antonio, this luxury resort was designed around its unique views of the city and its own golf course. SWA’s renovation of this striking hotel’s landscape included terracing down over 10 feet of the San Saba courtyard, expanding the resort’s many hospitality venues. Within San Saba, guests are invited to explo...
The Resort at Pedregal
Situated at the southernmost tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is a beautiful illustration of nature at its most diverse. Baja’s dramatic desert terrain is punctuated by the rugged Pedregal Mountain before converging with the pristine sandy beaches along the Sea of Cortez. Crashing blue waves of the Pacific meet the calmer waters of the Sea and cr...
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...
Hanwha Yangpyeong Resort
SWA won a master plan competition for this 900-hectare resort focused on the beauty of the forest and mountains, preserving and enhancing creeks, expanding trails, and experiencing nature. Five villages are proposed within five separate valleys, connected by a common trail system, ponds, and gondola. Existing hot springs will anchor a five-star, Korean-themed ...