LVH Super Homes - Flipbook - Page 176
CASA LORO:
A PRIVATE OASIS
IN THE HEART
OF THE WILDERNESS
INTERVIEW WITH IM/KM ARCHITECTS KRISTIN AND IVAN MORALES
indoor-outdoor experience, essentially a modern luxury "treehouse" that respects and
showcases the surrounding wilderness.
Ivan: We meticulously considered the topography, wind direction, sun orientation, and the
beauty of the ocean when designing the main house. Our aim was to connect the living
spaces with the outdoors, allowing guests to enjoy the breathtaking views of whales, birds,
and even rainstorms from the comfort of their home.
It sounds like an incredible setting. Can you describe the layout of Casa Loro?
Kristin: Certainly. Casa Loro consists of discreetly styled pavilions organized around the
main home, which features glass facades to reflect the natural surroundings. Perched on
the cliff's edge, the main guest pavilion provides an immersive experience with the sounds
of the ocean as you drift off to sleep.
It's evident that nature plays a significant role in Casa Loro's design, how did you
incorporate the natural environment into the interiors?
Ivan: We aimed for a minimalist, rustic and modern interior design that harmonizes with the
surroundings. To achieve this, we drew inspiration from the colors and textures found in the
nearby forests and sandy beaches. Shells, rocks, and corals collected from Playa Puerto
Escondido influenced our color palette and surfaces.
Kristin: Additionally, we took a sustainable approach to furnishing the property. Local
builders crafted most of the furniture from teak wood harvested from a nearby forest, part
of a longstanding reforestation program. We also used bamboo, another renewable material,
in the cantilever roof.
As sustainability is a large part of Casa Loro, can you share more about the environmental
impact of the property?
Ivan: Sustainability was a key consideration for us. We've been actively involved in
reforestation efforts, planting thousands of native trees in the reserve. This initiative has
also helped reintroduce dozens of wildlife species, including some of Panama's endangered
animals.
Kristin: Our goal is to leave the place better than we found it, both by preserving the
environment and contributing to the local community.
Casa Loro is a remarkable home nestled within a vast wilderness reserve along Panama's
Pacific coast. Kristin and Ivan Morales, the architects and visionaries behind this exceptional
property, relate how they brought this estate into harmony with nature, providing a
sustainable luxury retreat.
Let's start by discussing the concept of Casa Loro. Can you tell us about the inspiration
behind this extraordinary home?
Kristin: When we began envisioning Casa Loro, we had a clear mandate to incorporate the
natural environment into the architecture as much as possible. Our goal was to create an
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LVH SUPER HOMES
A luxury vacation would not be complete without unique experiences. What can guests
expect at Casa Loro?
Ivan: Guests can immerse themselves in the natural surroundings, from hiking through the
forest reserve to enjoying the infinity pool's majestic views. They can appreciate the local
craftsmanship in the teak floors and furniture and savor Panamanian cuisine prepared by
our staff.
Kristin: Casa Loro offers dramatic vistas and an enchanting environment, making it a
destination that's hard to top.
