Las Plataformas de San Luis

Case Study: Las Plataformas de San Luis

Type: Low-impact, semi-temporary private community
Scope: Design / Rigging / Build / Technical + Artistic Direction
Timeline: April 2013 – June 2013
Location: Monteverde, Costa Rica

The Vision

After befriending canopy scientists in the montane cloud forests of Central America and learning vertical rope-climbing techniques, I was inspired to merge those skills with what I’d learned from sailing tall ships and building wooden boats. Together with a small group of friends, we envisioned and created a series of low-impact, suspended living platforms on a biodynamic farm nestled deep within the forest.

Our goal was to explore modular, transportable tree-dwelling structures that would harmonize with nature—allowing humans to live lightly among the trees.

The Process

While exploring the biodynamic forest, I identified a set of magnificent trees—natural structures perfectly suited for hosting the suspended platforms I had in mind. Prior to this, I had already developed several small prototypes and refined a custom modular design adapted specifically to one of these trees.

Because of the remote location—accessible only by foot—the entire structure had to be designed in prefabricated sections, light enough to carry through the forest by hand.

Prefabrication and varnishing were completed at my Quincho workshop.
With the help of friends, we manually transported the modular components to the site.
Using vertical rope-climbing techniques, we rigged the main anchors directly into the canopy.
The roof sections were built and assembled on the ground, then hoisted and secured.
Next, the floor sections were raised and anchored into place, followed by the installation of rope verandas, a swinging picnic table, and other playful hanging features.

The project was a blend of experimental architecture, forest rigging, and collective effort—part construction site, part creative jungle lab.

The Outcome

The platforms quickly became a cherished gathering place—a sanctuary in the treetops. Whether resting, observing wildlife, or simply being present with the forest, the space offers a rare kind of connection to nature.

Impact & Use:

Serves as a learning space for biology education and canopy science
Offers hands-on adventure climbing training for local youth and visiting students
Functions as a prototype for lightweight, off-grid forest living
Built with extremely low environmental impact, with no permanent foundations and minimal tree intrusion

Reflection

Las Plataformas was a creative fusion of rigging, sailing craftsmanship, and ecological building. It reaffirmed how much can be achieved with a small crew, a bit of rope, and a deep respect for the forest. The project continues to serve as inspiration for future low-impact, modular living designs in sensitive natural environments.