As we develop our projects in the tropics, we are constantly reminded that the environment here is not just a backdrop—it is an active force that shapes everything, from daily life to long-term sustainability. Understanding the tropics requires more than just knowledge of climate; it requires embracing a completely different way of thinking.

Our architect, Pietro, has spent a lifetime observing and reflecting on what makes the tropics unique. Growing up in Costa Rica as the son of European immigrants, he saw firsthand how people from different backgrounds adapted (or struggled to adapt) to the realities of a tropical environment. His insights go beyond architecture—touching on culture, resilience, and our relationship with nature.

Here, he shares his perspective on why the tropical mindset matters—not just for those who live here, but for anyone invested in sustainability, environmental conservation, and responsible development.

A Different Way of Thinking

The tropics are more than just a geographical zone with warm temperatures and high humidity—they embody a unique way of life and a different way of thinking. Unlike the structured, seasonal approach to life in temperate regions, where human activity often dominates the environment, tropical life revolves around nature’s rhythms.

Nature here is not something to control but something to respect. In the tropics, the sun, the rain, and the dense biodiversity dictate daily choices. You learn to adapt, to be patient, and to work with nature rather than against it. This mindset is deeply embedded in culture and decision-making.

Growing up in Costa Rica as the child of European immigrants, I witnessed firsthand how my parents navigated these differences. They came from a world where four seasons structured the year, where nature was often subdued for human convenience. In contrast, the tropics required a more fluid, responsive approach to life. Their observations shaped my own understanding of what makes this region unique.

Why the Tropics Matter for the Future of the Planet

If we are serious about reversing environmental degradation, we must pay special attention to the tropical belt. This is where the planet’s remaining biodiversity is concentrated. The forests, soils, and ecosystems in this region hold the key to many of the world’s environmental solutions—whether through carbon sequestration, medicinal discoveries, or ecological balance.

Yet, we continue to treat the tropics as just another space for unchecked development. Conventional construction practices often ignore the ecological significance of the land they disrupt. In the tropics, grading a piece of land is not just about moving soil—it means wiping out entire micro-ecosystems, losing irreplaceable biodiversity, and triggering erosion that further accelerates climate change.

Sustainability in the tropics requires a different approach—one that minimizes land movement, reduces waste, and integrates maintenance into design. We must tread lightly because every square meter here is valuable.

Lessons from Tropical Life

Growing up in the tropics teaches resilience and adaptability. You don’t force things to happen—you wait for the right moment. You don’t ignore the downpour—you recognize its inevitability and work around it. This lesson extends beyond daily life and into how we build.

Our architecture should follow the same principles. Instead of designing buildings that fight the climate, we should embrace the strengths of the environment. By working with nature rather than trying to overpower it, we create structures that are not only more sustainable but also more comfortable and harmonious with their surroundings.

A tropical lifestyle is about learning to coexist with an environment that is both beautiful and powerful. Our architecture should reflect this reality.