Situated in the bustling shopping district of Trejos Montealegre in San José, Plaza Rolex emerges as a beacon of sophisticated Costa Rican design. This commercial center, conceptualized and executed by ICESA (Ingeniería, Ciudad, Espacio y Arquitectura), is a fusion of form and functionality that encapsulates the dynamism of modern city life.

Plaza Rolex houses an array of high-end retail boutiques, including a designer furniture shop, a jewelry store, a gift shop, and a bank. Each establishment within this architectural ensemble is framed by ICESA’s groundbreaking design, creating a unique shopping environment that radiates elegance and exclusivity.

A testament to ICESA’s commitment to sustainable design, Plaza Rolex exemplifies bioclimatic architecture. The structure dynamically interacts with its surroundings, responding to local climate conditions to create a comfortable and sustainable retail environment. The design achieves a delicate balance, offering low-maintenance costs while maintaining a high degree of aesthetic appeal and functionality.

The two-storey, compact building sits on a corner, presenting an engaging interaction with the streetscape. Its distinct architectural vocabulary combines stereotomic elements with tectonic ones, melding a sculpted concrete volume with sleek steel pergolas and shades. The building’s presence in the urban fabric is both bold and harmonious, expressing a modern interpretation of Costa Rican architectural principles.

As with all ICESA designs, Plaza Rolex epitomizes the firm’s commitment to innovative, bold, and sustainable design in Costa Rican architecture. It serves as a prime example of how architectural design can elevate the shopping experience, while remaining responsive and integrated within its urban context.

Location: Trejos Montealegre, Escazu, CR

Photographs courtesy of Arch. Ricardo Chaves