Santa Teresa - Costa Rica - North America

Mint: Hotel in Santa Teresa

Mint is a contemporary coastal hotel combines modern design and traditional Costa Rican craftsmanship.

Modern design and traditional craftsmanship

Mint is located on a steep hillside in Santa Teresa, a small coastal town in Costa Rica, that is a popular spot for surfing and yoga retreats.

The Swedish owners Jonas Thorrel and Johanna Johansson commissioned the architectural firm Studio Saxe to design the hotel, that they wanted in perfect harmony with the natural environment.

Opened in 2018 for adults only, Mint features a design that combines elements inspired by Greek architecture, minimalism, and Scandinavian design, with Costa Rican craftsmanship and tradition. The hotel has different cubic volumes arranged on a slope and overlooking the ocean. Mint features a simple minimal palette that comprises a black steel structure, concrete flooring, white paint and textiles, that contrast with the lush greenery. Local materials were used such as “caña brava” (a type of grass) arranged in a fishbone pattern on the ceilings.

Mint has 4 spacious suites that can be opened completely onto a terrace with ocean views at the front and a garden with tropical plants at the rear. Each room is afforded its own rooftop terrace, complete with lush plants, a sail for shade and rattan furniture. The rooms are equipped with locally sourced wooden furniture made by artisans and artwork by Costa Rican artists. The bathrooms are open, giving guests the opportunity to take a shower while listening to the sound of the waves.

The heart of Mint, accessed by a central concrete staircase, nestles at the bottom of the property, with a communal lounge area open to all sides, large floor cushions, a bar, as well as an infinity pool offering views on the sunset. In the morning, a buffet breakfast is served around a communal table.

Mint offers a new type of experience for travelers seeking authenticity.