UNA CASA EN LA ISLA
Casa Cavada is the latest and most emphatic expression of the Islas Secas ethos, rooted deeply in the spirit and natural beauty of the place itself. Building architecture designed by Hart Howerton takes cues from the promontory of the site, and the sweeping geography and organic forms of the striking and immensely biodiverse island archipelago located on the Pacific Coast of Panama. Casa Cavada commits deeply to the idea that nature is architecture’s original muse.
The villa structure and its design elements create a presence “of the island” utilizing volcanic rock, coral stone, and regionally sourced timber. The interiors of Casa Cavada draw inspiration from the rich tapestry of local and regional vernaculars, traditional Panamanian and Latin American patterns of building, decorative arts and crafts, and the natural geology and flora of the islands and isthmus from which it emerged.
Traditional Spanish Colonial pieces as well as more rustic reclaimed timber furnishings are woven throughout, acknowledging the area’s connection to trade and exchange, and the notion of many traditions and cultures of building washing ashore. Mola textiles by the indigenous Guna tribe, Panamanian basketry, and tapestries, pottery and more sourced from Mexico, Colombia, and Costa Rica abound.
The design exudes the Islas Secas spirit of luxury – asking if there is a finer thing to be so close to and attuned with nature. In embrace of natural materials and the environment, the hardworking elements of the interiors aim to stand the test of time and the elements of the island. Outside meets inside with a palette of materials inspired deeply by the local flora and fauna.
Photograph above: Studio Tre Projects
The spirit of sustainability finds a home in this approach rooted in timelessness – in pursuit of design elements that endure trends and tides. As the building itself and its rock rubble foundation emerge as if of the island, Casa Cavada at Islas Secas commits to a lasting and beneficial relationship between the manmade and truly natural.
See you out there.
All photography Islas Secas / Douglas Friedman, unless otherwise noted.
See Casa Cavada in Architectural Digest here.