What are the names of your accommodations?

Our accommodations are called Casa Costa Tenerife and Casa Costa Tenerife Nextdoor.

Could you briefly introduce yourself and your family members?

We are Susan and Leo Coolen, living in Antwerp and Tenerife (of course!). We have three children: Coco (16), Jana (28), and Max (25).

Would you like to tell us more about yourselves?

Our shared interests include culture, art, design, travel, and good food. We work as decorators and designers for various establishments, including hospitality venues. Additionally, we are active as architects, ceramicists, and distributors of vintage lighting worldwide through AM-antwerp.com. Our son Max helps with AM-antwerp, and we have a global network of private clients and interior designers. Our daughter Jana graduated from the Academy of Antwerp in painting and is now an artist, while Coco is currently studying photography at the arts high school in Antwerp.

When and how did your accommodation come into your life?

About fifteen years ago, we spontaneously went on vacation to Tenerife on the recommendation of a friend. We weren’t looking for a vacation home, but while we were there, we met an Antwerp friend who wanted to show us some beautiful spots. That’s how we ended up in El Poris, where we saw a “for sale” sign on a dilapidated house in a unique location by the ocean.

Can you tell us more about the process of renovating and furnishing your accommodation?

The renovation is a story of many years and has never truly been completed due to the seaside climate, wind, and salt. We had a container filled with vintage furniture, lighting, and decor shipped over. During Christmas and New Year, we celebrated the house as it was. By spending some holidays there, we got to know the house and the climate better, allowing us to gradually renew and adapt everything. The big plan was already in our minds, but being there and understanding the climate and location showed us that some planned changes had to be adjusted.

What makes your accommodation truly special to you?

The location is special, with waves sometimes crashing over 10 meters in front of us. The fact that we can invite friends and family makes it a wonderful home for both intimate gatherings and larger groups. The climate is mild year-round, and we can always swim in the ocean. In summer, it’s never too hot, allowing us to live outdoors all year round.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your accommodation?

The interior is a mix of art, vintage furniture, and lighting. It reflects the things we find beautiful. This makes the house often used as a location for film and photo shoots.

Which part of your accommodation do you find the most beautiful and why?

The terrace by the pool with the Tikka furniture is my favorite, but the kitchen is also very special to me. In fact, every spot is pleasant; there are many different areas, both inside and outside, where you can retreat.

What makes the location of your accommodation unique and special?

The location offers the unique climate of Tenerife and the Canary Islands, with a natural pool right outside the door and extremely high waves crashing against the rocks. This allows people to locate our house from afar. The small village, devoid of hotels or the hustle and bustle found in the tourist areas of the island, also contributes to the unique experience.

Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly features associated with your accommodation that you are proud of?

Although we don’t explicitly have sustainable features, during the renovation, we tried to make use of as many materials as possible that were used during the original construction of the house. We created openings for natural ventilation, reducing the need for air conditioning. We make extensive use of solar panels for water heating, and our furniture, decor, and lighting are largely vintage.

What inspired you to rent your property to guests?

This has evolved gradually. The smaller Nextdoor was always rented out. With the increasing photo shoots and the growth of our children, who now join us less often, the rentals have naturally increased.

Can you provide a vivid description of the overall experience guests can expect during their stay at your accommodation?

Guests can enjoy a wonderful time together with friends and/or family, go on various excursions, or simply enjoy the house and its spectacular views. In Nextdoor, it feels like you are alone in the world; the house is built so close to the ocean that it even lies beyond the currently allowed building line.

In what ways does your accommodation stand out from others?

The house reflects who we are and is full of little details.

What is the best compliment you have received from a guest?

When they come back, which happens very regularly at both houses, and when they send a message afterward saying how wonderful it was.

What do you hope guests will take away or remember most from their stay at your accommodation?

A memory of a delightful vacation.

Do you have recommendations for guests to make the most of their holiday?

Tenerife is more beautiful than many people think. Although it is busier now than it was fifteen years ago, it is definitely worth a visit. Mount Teide and the surrounding landscape, the Anaga National Park, and the beautiful city of Santa Cruz with architecture by Herzog & de Meuron (Plaza España and TEA) and Calatrava (auditorium and the older congress center) are highly recommended. La Laguna is also lovely, though it can be a bit cooler at times, as well as the small villages in the north of the island.