Sustainability goes beyond your home’s interior. It can extend to your property’s exterior areas to create a unique harmony with nature. In Costa Rica, sustainability isn’t merely a trend; it’s an essential element that defines modern lifestyle. Here, we delve into the intricacies of sustainable living with our LX luxury specialist, Juliane Maurach, as our guide.

Whether you’re considering upgrades to your existing property or embarking on the journey to acquire or construct a luxurious abode in this eco-paradise, Juliane’s expert insights will unveil the secrets to infusing sustainability into every facet of your dream home outdoors.

Costa Rica is recognized worldwide for its environmentally friendly policies and an educated population aware of ecological values. It is also a country where the trend of luxury real estate is deeply rooted. What are some of the available options for external sustainability and luxury homes in Costa Rica?

With Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity, home gardens in the country present an undeniable opportunity to embrace sustainability. Homeowners are increasingly turning to eco-conscious gardening and landscaping practices, elevating their properties while contributing to the preservation of Costa Rica’s natural ecosystems.

To safeguard your property against erosion, especially in hilly terrains, the strategic use of plant covers emerges as an eco-friendly solution. These covers, adorned with a tapestry of local flora, not only add aesthetic charm but also anchor the soil, preventing erosion and conserving the precious topsoil that nurtures your plants.

By cultivating endemic plants in your garden, you create a harmonious environment where nature thrives alongside your home with reduced irrigation and care, which can usually involve the use of harmful chemicals.

Additionally, the farm-to-table concept has taken root in Costa Rica, with homeowners cultivating their vegetable gardens. Beyond the sheer convenience, this practice significantly reduces your carbon footprint, promotes self-sufficiency, and connects you intimately with the earth.

In the wake of the global pandemic, as individuals sought solace in the tranquility of their homes, a transformative trend took root across Costa Rica – the art of composting. What once seemed like a niche practice suddenly became a common and rewarding hobby, embraced by eco-conscious enthusiasts and novices alike.

Image by Freepik

Composting, the natural process of recycling organic materials into nutrient-rich soil, emerged as an ideal pastime during lockdowns. Homebound individuals found comfort in tending to their compost heaps, transforming kitchen scraps into valuable compost that enriched their gardens. It wasn’t just a practical solution for waste reduction; it became a therapeutic ritual, connecting people with the essence of sustainable living.

In the pursuit of sustainable living, homeowners in Costa Rica are turning their attention skyward. One such innovative trend gaining immense popularity is the concept of living roofs. These verdant crowns not only enhance the aesthetic allure of a property but also serve as nature’s cooling elixir, transforming the indoor environment and contributing significantly to the local ecosystem.

Image by 4045

Living roofs, also known as green roofs, involve the strategic placement of a blanket of vegetation atop a building. This ingenious design choice offers a myriad of benefits, one of the most striking being its cooling effect on the indoors. The dense vegetation acts as a natural insulator, absorbing solar radiation and providing a refreshing respite from the tropical heat. Studies have shown that living roofs can reduce indoor temperatures by up to 4 degrees Celsius, offering homeowners a cooler and more comfortable living space, all while reducing the need for energy-intensive air conditioning.

These vibrant ecosystems, which can also be placed in a vertical wall form, also play a crucial role in promoting biodiversity. The lush vegetation acts as a magnet, attracting bees, butterflies, and an array of beneficial insects. These tiny visitors, in turn, aid in pollination and contribute to the overall health of the local environment.

Image by Lifeforstock

No longer just a symbol of opulence, pools are undergoing eco-conscious transformations, aligning with the country’s commitment to sustainability.

The transition from traditional chlorine pools to saltwater pools has become a pivotal choice for environmentally aware homeowners. Saltwater pools utilize a natural process called electrolysis, where a salt cell converts salt into chlorine. This results in a milder form of chlorine that doesn’t carry the same harsh chemical properties as its traditional counterpart.

Another revolutionary concept making waves in the luxury real estate market is the advent of living pools. Unlike conventional pools, these aquatic designs emulate natural ponds, complete with aquatic plants, microorganisms, and a thriving ecosystem. The magic lies in the pool’s ability to maintain itself. Beneficial plants and microorganisms act as natural filters, purifying the water without the need for harmful chemicals. This self-sustaining aquatic marvel not only provides a serene swimming experience but also fosters a flourishing aquatic life.

Read about using endemic plants in your contemporary home in Nosara: