Garton Group Architecture

Studio

Garton Group Architecture is a Costa Rica–based architecture and design studio creating thoughtful tropical residences, boutique hospitality, and carefully considered spaces.

We combine international design standards with deep local expertise to guide projects from concept through completion.

People

Tom Garton
Founder & Creative Director

Tom Garton leads Garton Group Architecture with a focus on bespoke residences, boutique hospitality, and carefully considered tropical architecture.

Working with clients internationally, he guides projects from early vision through design, permitting, and construction, helping shape refined spaces deeply connected to place.

FAQs

Every project is unique, as too is every client, most questions will be project-specific however some have answers we can help you with here. There are some questions we are regularly asked which you can find answered here.

  • We primarily work on bespoke tropical residences, boutique hospitality, and carefully considered residential developments. Most of our work is located in Costa Rica, with clients based both locally and internationally.

    We are best suited to projects where thoughtful design, strong execution, and attention to detail are highly valued.

  • We combine international design standards with deep local expertise, helping clients navigate the realities of building in Costa Rica while maintaining a strong architectural vision.

    Our approach balances design quality, technical rigour, climate responsiveness, and careful project coordination from concept through completion.

    We take away the stress and complexity of navigating a complex permitting process.

    We control all phases of the design, quoting, and construction process on behalf of our clients.

    We love what we do, we know what we are doing and we deliver our clients ambitions.

  • Every project is unique, so fees vary depending on scope, complexity, and level of service required. Following an initial consultation, we provide a clear proposal tailored to your project needs.

    We believe thoughtful architecture is an investment in long-term quality, experience, and value.

  • Every project is unique and costs vary significantly depending on location, size, complexity, materials, and level of specification.

    During an initial consultation we can help establish realistic expectations for both design and construction budgets, ensuring alignment from the outset.

  • We primarily work throughout Costa Rica and regularly collaborate with international clients designing homes and hospitality projects remotely.

    Depending on the project, we may also consider select opportunities internationally.

  • Timelines vary depending on project complexity, permitting requirements, and construction scope.

    As a guide, smaller residential projects may move more quickly, while bespoke homes and hospitality projects often require a longer design and construction process to achieve the right result.

    In Costa Rica, the largest delays usually come from the municipality and other entities’ permitting departments. On projects over 1000m2 there are a significant number of additional permits required that will increase the time required in this phase. In our initial consultations, we are completely transparent with our clients based on current timings to ensure that expectations are aligned with the reality of permitting a project with a particular municipality.

  • our standard form of engagement is under a full architectural package contract. That is to say Schematic design, technical design (including all engineering work) and permitting, tendering/overseeing the bidding process, and technical direction throughout construction.

    we are occasionally asked to provide a bespoke mix of the above which is fine for us as long as all parties understand their roles and deliverables from the beWe offer a full architectural service from concept design through permitting, technical documentation, and construction support.

    Depending on project requirements, we also assist with master planning, interior coordination, consultant collaboration, and project guidance throughout delivery.ginning.

  • Yes. For many clients — particularly those relocating or building from abroad — site selection is an important first step.

    We can help assess land potential, opportunities, limitations, orientation, climate, views, access, and practical considerations before purchase or design begins.