Casa Ecco, vacation home for rent near Antigua, Guatemala

A Poetic Model of Collaborative Design

This vacation home for rent near Antigua is a collaboration, a community project of architects and landscapers coming together to create an artful retreat using shipping containers in combination with natural and indigenous materials. The result, Casa Ecco, is just 25 minutes from the center of the UNESCO-listed town of Antigua, set between three volcanoes and within the lush grounds of the La Reunión Residences. The home includes a pool, an outdoor jacuzzi, and staff on call to assist with meals and excursions.

The creation of Casa Ecco was led by architect Patricia Arenas, with interiors a collaboration with Alejandra Palomo. The home's philosophy is honored in an art installation—a sculptural colony of ants symbolizing the collective effort that shaped the home. The design is contemporary and eco-conscious, with a focus on tactile simplicity.

The interiors feature exposed volcanic stone, soft textiles, and an earthy palette that mirrors the surrounding highlands. Open volumes allow the light, breeze, and landscape to flow through.

The outdoor features a pool and jacuzzi with volcano views. There is a traditional Temazcal sauna, an organic orchard, a badminton court, and a shaded barbecue and dining area.

What we love

Casa Ecco is a model of collaborative design, where community is not just celebrated but built into the architecture itself. The surrounding landscape, the tactile materials, and the quiet attention to flow and sustainability create a space that feels honest, grounded and restorative.

Layout

This vacation home accommodates up to 16 guests across a main house and an independent module. The main house includes a master bedroom with a king bed and a full en-suite with a bathtub, a second bedroom with two queen beds and a full en-suite, a family room with a 60-inch TV, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private studio/workspace.

The independent module features a bedroom with a queen bed and a private bathroom, and another with a queen bed and an imperial bed, with a bathroom and kitchenette.

Experiences

Concierge services are available upon request to assist with excursions. Guests can also enjoy the amenities of the La Reunión Residences, which include a golf course designed by Pete Dye, walking and biking trails.

Good to know

The property is located within a gated resort community. While the home is secluded, guests have access to the resort’s amenities, which may be used by other guests and residents. While the nearest town is just 20 minutes away, a car is recommended for getting around.

Amenities and services

High-speed Wi-Fi, custom local furnishings and textiles, indoor and outdoor lounging areas, on-site parking, with concierge service available upon request

Around

This home is just 25 minutes from the center of UNESCO-listed town of Antigua, known for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture and cobbled streets. The property is part of the exclusive La Reunión Residences. The resort offers a nine-hole golf course designed by Pete Dye, tennis and paddle. There are also walking and biking trails through the volcanic terrain.