Sustainable interior design is not just about choosing eco-friendly materials or installing LED light bulbs. It is a philosophy that involves conscious decisions at every stage of the creative process. At Willow, our design studio in Costa Rica, we believe that sustainability begins with knowing what to avoid. In this article, we share the most common mistakes that can compromise the sustainability of an interior design project and how to prevent them.
Why is it important to avoid certain approaches in sustainable design?
In a country like Costa Rica, where biodiversity and environmental commitment are part of the national identity, sustainable interior design plays a fundamental role. However, many times, due to lack of knowledge or blindly following trends, decisions are made that go against ecological principles.
Avoiding these mistakes not only improves the environmental impact of the project but also ensures healthier, longer-lasting, and more ethical spaces.
1. Excessive use of synthetic or non-recyclable materials
One of the most common mistakes is choosing synthetic materials such as plastics, vinyls, or laminates that have no second life. While they may seem cost-effective or visually appealing, their production and disposal create a high environmental impact.
What to do instead?
- Prioritize natural materials such as certified wood, bamboo, local stone, or organic textiles.
- Research the traceability of materials: Where do they come from? How are they produced? Can they be recycled?
- At Willow, we work with local suppliers in Costa Rica who guarantee responsible practices and sustainable materials.
2. Ignoring energy efficiency
Designing without considering the energy consumption of the space is another big mistake. This includes everything from lighting to ventilation and appliances.
What to avoid?
- Excessive or poorly distributed artificial lighting.
- Low-performance appliances.
- Spaces that rely too heavily on air conditioning.
What to do?
- Maximize natural light.
- Use energy-certified appliances.
- Design for cross-ventilation, especially in tropical climates like Costa Rica’s.
3. Designing without thinking about durability
A design that quickly deteriorates or follows short-lived trends ends up generating more waste and expenses. Sustainability also means thinking long-term.
What to avoid?
- Low-quality furniture that breaks easily.
- Finishes that require constant maintenance or toxic products.
- Styles that become outdated quickly.
What to do?
- Invest in durable, timeless pieces.
- Use resistant, low-maintenance finishes.
- Design with flexibility so the space can adapt over time.
4. Wasting local resources
Importing materials or furniture from other countries can increase the project’s carbon footprint. In Costa Rica, we have access to a great variety of natural resources and talented artisans.
What to avoid?
- Buying everything from large international chains.
- Ignoring local cultural and artisanal richness.
What to do?
- Collaborate with Costa Rican artisans.
- Use local materials such as teak, bamboo, or handcrafted ceramics.
- Design with identity: let the space reflect the surroundings and culture.
5. Not considering the product life cycle
Every design element has a life cycle—from manufacturing to disposal. Ignoring this can lead to unsustainable decisions.
What to avoid?
- Products that cannot be repaired, reused, or recycled.
- Materials that release toxic compounds over time.
What to do?
- Choose products with ecological certifications.
- Design with future reuse in mind.
- Avoid paints, adhesives, or textiles with harmful chemicals.
6. Lack of environmental education in design
Sustainable design doesn’t end when the project is delivered. If users don’t understand how to interact with the space responsibly, the efforts are diluted.
What to avoid?
- Designs that require unsustainable habits.
- Failing to inform the client about responsible use of the space.
What to do?
- Include signage or guides for sustainable use.
- Educate the client about eco-friendly maintenance.
- Design spaces that encourage green practices such as recycling or water saving.
7. Overdecorating or filling the space unnecessarily
Conscious minimalism is key in sustainable design. Filling the space with decorative objects without function or meaning can create waste and clutter.
What to avoid?
- Impulse buying of decoration.
- Using low-quality or purposeless decorative materials.
What to do?
- Choose pieces with meaning or utility.
- Less is more: prioritize functionality and harmony.
- Reuse old objects or repurpose existing items.
8. Not measuring the environmental impact of the project
Designing without metrics is like navigating without a compass. Today, there are tools to calculate the environmental impact of an interior design project.
What to avoid?
- Making decisions without data.
- Failing to assess energy consumption, carbon footprint, or water use.
What to do?
- Use environmental assessment tools.
- Document the project’s sustainable decisions.
- Share the results with the client to promote awareness.
Conclusion
At Willow, we believe that sustainable interior design in Costa Rica should be more than a trend—it must be a responsibility. Avoiding these mistakes is the first step toward creating spaces that respect the environment, promote well-being, and stand the test of time.
Every decision matters. From the material of a chair to the orientation of a window, conscious design transforms not only spaces but also the way we live.
