In May 2017, a multidisciplinary team, led by EMI Nicaragua, visited Rancho Agua Viva whereby they undertook a series of design consultations and briefings with the client team, carried out site surveys and investigations and created a new masterplan for the site and concept designs for both new and existing buildings.

The site is vast but much of the land is hilly and would be extremely difficult to develop, therefore the proposed masterplan sits within a 24-acre section of the overall site. The site is surrounded by nature, and the vision of the project was for buildings and spaces that are filled with light and natural beauty, that blend into the landscape and reflect the glory of God’s creation.

Whilst there are still many aspects of the site to develop, this portfolio features the Welcome Centre. This is the first building that visitors to Rancho Agua Viva encounter, and it sets the tone for spaces that are intimately connected with nature, each other, and God. It includes a new reception area alongside an indoor recreation room that spills out onto a large outdoor deck set above the river. The ranch can host up to 300 people at a time and annually serves around 5000 people.