At Willow, our interior design and architecture studio in Costa Rica, we believe that design goes beyond aesthetics. It is a powerful tool to connect with the surroundings, express identity, and promote well-being. Every space we create aims to reflect not only the style of its inhabitants but also the values that sustain it: respect for nature, authenticity, and harmony.
Costa Rica, with its biodiversity, warm culture, and commitment to sustainability, inspires us to design with purpose. That’s why we want to share with you some essential tips for incorporating Costa Rican style into your spaces, consciously and elegantly.
1. Natural Materials: Beauty and Sustainability
One of the cornerstones of design with Costa Rican essence is the use of natural materials. At Willow, we prioritize elements like certified wood, bamboo, and organic textiles. These materials not only beautify the spaces but also respect the environment and promote responsible practices.
Additionally, working with local materials reduces the carbon footprint and supports artisanal communities. Each texture, each grain, each fiber tells a story that connects the design to the land.
2. Natural Light as the Protagonist
Costa Rica enjoys abundant, warm sunlight that can transform any environment. At Willow, we design spaces that make the most of natural light, creating bright, fresh, and energy-efficient atmospheres.
We use lightweight curtains, strategically placed mirrors, and light color palettes to enhance the flow of light. This not only reduces electrical consumption but also improves mood and indoor air quality.
3. Indoor Green: Tropical Plants
Vegetation is an essential part of Costa Rican style. Including tropical plants like ferns, palms, monstera, or even orchids adds freshness, improves air quality, and creates a direct connection with nature.
At Willow, we integrate greenery as a design element, not just decorative. Plants help define spaces, soften architectural lines, and create more relaxing and healthy environments.
4. Color Palette Inspired by the Landscape
The natural surroundings of Costa Rica offer a rich and harmonious color palette. Earth tones, the soft greens of the jungle, ocean blues, and the warm yellows of the coastal sun are ideal for creating spaces that convey calm and balance.
At Willow, we use these colors to evoke feelings: tranquility, freshness, connection. We combine neutral tones with vibrant accents to create spaces that feel alive, yet serene.
5. Furniture with History and Purpose
Furniture should not be just functional or decorative. At Willow, we value design with soul. We focus on artisanal pieces, reclaimed furniture, and objects that tell stories. Restoring an inherited table, like we did in Ileana’s project, or incorporating a chair made by a local artisan, transforms the space into something unique and meaningful.
This approach also promotes sustainability by avoiding unnecessary consumption and extending the lifespan of objects. Each piece chosen with intention adds character and authenticity.
6. Well-being as the Core of Design
Costa Rican design is not only about beauty, but also well-being. At Willow, we create spaces that promote physical and emotional health. This includes good ventilation, proper lighting, non-toxic materials, and functional layout.
Furthermore, we design with each client’s lifestyle in mind: whether they need a corner to meditate, a kitchen that invites sharing, or an office that inspires focus. Design should adapt to people, not the other way around.
7. Connection with the Surroundings
Designing in Costa Rica means recognizing the value of the surroundings. At Willow, we seek to make each project engage with its context: a house in the mountains should open to the landscape, an apartment in the city should incorporate natural elements, and a commercial space should reflect local identity.
Architecture and interior design must integrate with the place, respecting its climate, culture, and rhythm. This connection creates spaces that are more coherent, sustainable, and emotionally enriching.
Design with Purpose, Design with Willow
Every space can be an expression of respect for nature and for those who inhabit it. At Willow, we help you transform your home or business into a reflection of Costa Rican beauty, with style, awareness, and heart.
We believe that design can be a tool for change: to live better, to care for the planet, and to reconnect with what truly matters. Whether you are starting a new project or looking to renew your current space, we are here to accompany you with sensitivity, creativity, and commitment.
Ready to redesign your space?
Contact us and discover how design can be part of the change.
