An ancient Moroccan technique meets biophilic architecture in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. This is what it teaches us about designing with materials that breathe.

In the dry tropical region of Guanacaste, degraded cattle pastures are being transformed into thriving, multi-layered food forests. In this in-depth case study, we share how we designed and implemented a syntropic agroforestry system centered around Ojoche (Brosimum alicastrum), combining native dry forest species, perennial food crops, and regenerative land management practices. From on-contour vs. off-contour planting to soil microbiome restoration, dry season resilience, and succession planning, this article explores practical strategies for restoring tropical pastureland into productive, climate-resilient agroforestry systems.