The Agency Costa Rica recently visited our partner Elemento Diseño in Escazú for a training session, capturing the heart of the interior design direction we’re seeing for 2025. Interior spaces are becoming more soulful, more intentional, and deeply connected with nature—without sacrificing beauty or sophistication. Norma Lachner, head designer at Elemento Diseño, defined 4 main keywords regarding design trends in Costa Rica: Sustainable Elegance, Texture, Nature, and Comfort.
“The 2025 trend is comfort, calm, and sustainability—without ever leaving elegance behind.”
Norma Lachner, Elemento DiseñoBefore diving into the core tendencies in interior design, it’s worth noting that these trends echo shifts already taking place in Costa Rica’s architectural approach. We’re seeing an emphasis on comfort and sustainability, with thoughtful designs that avoid damaging the land or displacing communities. Earthy materials like brick are increasingly favored over plastic, and architecture is becoming more rooted in a dialogue with the environment.
“Design is more than aesthetics—it’s how a space makes you feel and how unique it can get. Our partnership with Elemento Diseño is helping our clients make sure their home tells a meaningful story.”
Melissa Lacayo, The Agency Costa RicaLet’s explore the four keywords defining interior design in Costa Rica for 2025:
1. Sustainable Elegance: Vintage Meets Modern
Sustainability is no longer a bonus—it’s a requirement. Yet 2025 design proves that conscious choices can be deeply elegant. A few well-chosen vintage pieces—such as a repurposed headboard or a classic cabinet—can integrate beautifully into otherwise modern spaces. The mix of eras brings soul to a home, all while honoring materials that have already stood the test of time.
This trend supports exclusivity as well: design in 2025 favors unique pieces over mass-produced decor. Luxury today is quiet, personal, and sustainable. Many designers are turning to brands like Vical, which plant their own trees to ensure a sustainable supply of quality wood.
2. Texture: Accents that Invite Warmth
Texture is making a statement in 2025. The use of XL rugs, wallpaper, and layered materials is growing—especially in communal spaces like living rooms. These elements create cozy, grounded environments. However, the trend isn’t about overwhelming a space with competing textures. The look remains clean and minimal, with strategic accents that add warmth and interest.
From natural jute, wool, and cotton rugs to textured wood-paneled walls, texture appears in both expected and surprising places. Hand-painted or embroidered throw pillows are trending, bringing artisanal charm into the mix. A clean space with intentional textured touches is the signature of refined comfort this year.
3. Nature: Organic Beauty Inside the Home
The global experience of lockdowns and confinement reminded us of our need for nature—and interior design is responding. Natural materials like stone, oak, rubberwood, and walnut are used not only for their beauty, but for their ability to create peace.
“Organic elements bring us calm and make every piece unique.”
Norma Lachner, Elemento DiseñoThis quote, shared by our training designer at Elemento Diseño, reflects the essence of this trend. No two natural pieces are the same, and their inherent individuality makes them timeless.
Color palettes are following suit. Earth tones—mocha, light pinks, moss green, terracotta, and rich browns—are back. They are layered carefully with neutrals like greige, beige, and charcoal. The goal is to create calming harmony, often enhanced by natural lighting, which remains the most sought-after element in Costa Rican design.
4. Comfort: Adaptable Living with Character
Comfort is taking a slightly different definition in 2025. It goes far beyond plush cushions and inviting armchairs, and becoming more about how flexible your space feels. Modular furniture, for example, is becoming a staple. These pieces invite people to relax but also challenge homeowners and designers to get creative: one day, a sectional might form a cozy L-shape for family movie night; the next, it might be rearranged into a straight line to open up the room.
This adaptability makes it easier to refresh the space without replacing furniture. In living rooms, we’re seeing a move away from “just for guests” aesthetics toward designs that prioritize everyday use. It’s about creating a home that welcomes its residents every day—not just its visitors.
Additional Design Tendencies for 2025
While the four core themes lead the way, several complementary trends are shaping Costa Rican interiors:
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Accent Pieces: From oversized art to sculptural lighting, statement items define a space’s character.
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Sustainable Scents: Soy candles are preferred over paraffin—not only for their sustainability but for their superior aromatization.
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Timeless Leather: Leather continues to be a staple material for its durability and classic look.
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Exclusivity: Bulk production is out. Handcrafted, limited-run items and small brands are highly valued.
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Timeless Flexibility: Furniture and pieces that can shift rooms and purposes over the years is highly valued.
- XL Scale: XL-scale elements like oversized rugs and artwork are in.
