Welcome to Monthly Highlights & Spotlights
Anthony Livoti’s San Jose’s Hot Topics – January 2025
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Refresh and Renew for the New Year
Happy New Year from Homes Costa Rica!
As we step into 2025, we want to thank you for being part of our journey. Your support means the world to us, and we are grateful to have you as part of the Homes Costa Rica family. We wish you and your loved ones a year of happiness, health, and new beginnings. Here’s to making your dreams a reality this year—whether it’s finding your perfect home, refreshing your space, or embracing new adventures.
Welcome to our January edition, where we embrace fresh starts and focus on ways to rejuvenate your home and lifestyle in Costa Rica’s Central Valley. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your home, discover new design trends, or explore sustainable living, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you start the year inspired.
Renovate and Refresh Your Space
Home Renovation Trends in Costa Rica
Renovating homes in Costa Rica often involves upgrading kitchens, modernizing bathrooms, or creating outdoor living spaces to suit the tropical climate. In general home renovations in Costa Rica are less frequent therefore if you’re moving into a new space you’ll want to consider some upgrades. In my experience, most home buyers want to modernize the homes’ amenities, such as installing more modern fixtures, and larger sinks, or improving laundry rooms and bathrooms. Some common upgrades include:
- Modern Kitchens: Open layouts, install more modern sinks and fixtures, and add larger built-in storage.
- Bathroom Upgrades: Installing rain showers, sleek tiles, eco-friendly fixtures and modern lighting.
- Outdoor Spaces: Adding pergolas, outdoor kitchens, or fire pits for entertaining.
- Energy Efficiency: Installing electric on demad water heaters, smart appliances, and LED lighting.
Popular Architecture in Escazú and Santa Ana
Homes in these areas often blend colonial, Mediterranean, and contemporary styles. Look for:
- Colonial Charm: Arched windows, terracotta roofs, and vibrant gardens.
- Modern Minimalism: Clean lines, large windows, and indoor-outdoor flow.
- Eco-friendly Designs: Bamboo accents, sustainable materials, and green roofs. Cane (sugar cane) accents are quite popular in Costa Rica and add an eco-feel and local charm.
Where to Shop for Renovation Materials and Home Décor
Furniture and Design Stores
- Casa y Más: Stylish and functional furniture options for every room.
- KAL Furniture: Custom furniture pieces in Ciudad Colón.
- La Artistica: High-end designs, including custom furniture.
- Altea: Contemporary furniture
- Habitat: High-end furniture, unique designs, touch of elegance.
- Ashley: Furniture: Traditional to classic furniture
A local alternative: Sarchí Custom Furniture: Sarchí, located in Costa Rica’s Alajuela province, is renowned as the artisan capital of the country, celebrated for its vibrant hand-painted oxcarts (carretas) and exceptional woodworking craftsmanship. Once essential for transporting coffee, these intricately designed oxcarts have become iconic symbols of Costa Rican heritage. Over time, Sarchí evolved into a hub for high-quality furniture making, using native woods like cenízaro and Guanacaste. Visitors can explore workshops, purchase handmade furniture and crafts, and even participate in traditional oxcart painting, making Sarchí a must-visit destination for culture and artistry.
Custom Furniture Tips
Use Facebook Marketplace to find artisan furniture designers. Search with keywords like:
- Muebles de bambú (bamboo furniture)
- Muebles artesanales (handcrafted furniture)
Reach out for custom, high-quality pieces at affordable prices.
Renovation Materials
- Porceramica: Extensive selection of tiles, ceramics, and flooring.
- EPA Escazú: A one-stop shop for home improvement.
- Euromobilia: Specializes in kitchens and cabinetry.
Garden Centers and Plants for the Dry Season
Popular Plants Ideas:
- Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.) Hardy, drought-resistant climbers with vibrant colors (purple, red, orange, pink, white). Perfect for fences, walls, or as a flowering hedge.
- Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) Large, showy blooms in various colors. Excellent for tropical garden aesthetics.
- Blue Jade Vine (Strongylodon macrobotrys) A stunning climber with unique turquoise flowers. Perfect for pergolas or trellises, creating a dramatic display.
- Succulents: Agave, Aloe Vera, and Echeveria. Low maintenance and great for adding texture to rock gardens.
- Plumeria (Frangipani) Fragrant flowers in shades of pink, white, and yellow. Popular in tropical and minimalist landscaping.
- Passionfruit Vine (Passiflora edulis) Has Edible fruit and stunning flowers. Excellent for trellises or fences.
- Guava Trees (Psidium guajava) Compact and easy to grow, producing fragrant fruits. Versatile as a hedge or ornamental tree with thick, glossy leaves.
- Ylang-Ylang Tree (Cananga odorata) Fragrant yellow flowers, perfect for adding an aromatic element to gardens.
Bamboo Construction and Natural Materials
- Bambú Tico: Expert in sustainable bamboo construction.
- Rancho Mastatal: Workshops and natural building techniques.
Rejuvenate Your Lifestyle
Fitness and Wellness Options
- Gyms: World Gym (Escazú), Smart Fit (various locations), and CrossFit 506 (Escazú).
- Spas: Vida Zen Spa (Escazú), Luz de Luna (Santa Ana).
- Yoga Studios: Dru Yoga (Escazú) and Ananda Samsaara (Santa Ana).
- Santa Ana Country Club: Provides, spa, fitness, yoga, and gym facilities.
Out of the City Escapes
Cultural Experience: Peace Lodge and La Paz Waterfalls
Nestled in the lush mountains near Vara Blanca, the Peace Lodge offers an unforgettable experience. Explore the stunning La Paz Waterfalls, vibrant butterfly gardens, and a wildlife refuge showcasing Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity—all in one magical location.
Beach Escape: Herradura Yacht Trip
Set sail from Herradura Bay for a luxurious yacht adventure. Discover hidden coves, enjoy snorkeling, or simply relax as you take in the stunning Pacific Ocean views. This experience combines leisure and nature in perfect harmony.
Ready to Start Your Home Transformation this 2025?
Let me help you find the perfect property or connect you with trusted professionals to bring your renovation dreams to life. As a proud RE/MAX agent in Costa Rica, I’ve built a strong network of real estate professionals throughout Costa Rica. I work with both buyers and sellers, offering extensive knowledge and representation, especially in the Central Valley areas of Escazú and Santa Ana. Reach out today, and let’s take the first step toward making your dream home a reality in beautiful Costa Rica!
THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING?
I am ready to help you!
See All My Exclusive Listings Here
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LOOKING FOR THE BEST REPRESENTATION?
I will take good care of you and your family!
Visit me at www.homes-costarica.com
Email me at: alivoti72@gmail.com
Or Call ME at (+506) 8332-5035
As always, I look forward to working with you now & in the future…
Anthony
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