Outdoor living is an essential part of life in Costa Rica or anywhere that is warm and hot all throughout the year. Surrounded by lush greenery, tropical birds, and warm breezes, a backyard pergola becomes more than just a structure, it’s a daily retreat.
However, in tropical climates, beauty must always be balanced with practicality.
The Challenge: A Beautiful Rancho with a Hidden Problem
This vacation home featured a traditional wooden rancho style pergola, rich in character and charm. Unfortunately, over time it had attracted a bit more wildlife than intended with termite visitors, a common issue in humid, tropical environments. The damage reached a point where removal was the only responsible option.
Rather than simply replacing it with another wooden structure, this was an opportunity to rethink the space entirely.
Taking measurements on how high and wide to make the Pergola as well as the angle and colour finishes of this Pergola specifically.
The Solution: A More Functional, Practical Pergola
I assisted the homeowners by:
- Determining the ideal height and span for the new pergola
- Ensuring the structure felt open, airy, and proportionally balanced
- Improving functionality, longevity, and ease of maintenance
- Maximizing views while allowing natural airflow
The result? A dramatic transformation.
The Result: Open, Breezy, and Connected to Nature
The new pergola immediately changed how the space feels and functions:
- More open and expansive, allowing soft breezes to flow through on hot days (which is every day in Costa Rica!)
- Unobstructed views of surrounding greenery, birds, and nature
- A lighter, cleaner structure that visually blends into its environment
- A termite-free solution built with future durability in mind
When I returned to view the completed project, I didn’t see a single termite or any evidence of damage and peace of mind was restored.
Beautiful pergola with living space connected to nature. Stay tuned for more upcoming transformations to this vacation property in Costa Rica
Design Is More Than Looks: It’s About Longevity
This project is a perfect example of my design philosophy:
Beauty must work for the way you live: today and in the future.
I don’t just beautify spaces. I consider:
- Climate
- Materials
- Maintenance
- Longevity
- How a space will actually be used over time
Interior and Exterior Design Support
Many people don’t realize that I offer both interior and exterior consultations. From planning and material guidance to working directly with your builder and trades, I help ensure your spaces are:
- Functional
- Thoughtfully designed and decorated
- Timeless visually
Whether it’s:
- Your home in Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada
- A vacation property in Costa Rica 🇨🇷 (or other Caribbean destinations)
- Your weekend home away from home cottage or resort in Muskoka • Haliburton • Barry’s Bay • Friday Harbour • Kawartha Lakes • Georgian Bay / Parry Sound • Sable Beach • Prince Edward County and more
- Your Home and investment properties in Europe such as Poland 🇵🇱 Italy 🇮🇹 Switzerland 🇨🇭 France 🇫🇷 Germany 🇩🇪 Austria 🇦🇹 Spain 🇪🇸 Greece 🇬🇷 or Europe Islands of Malta 🇲🇹 Mykonos 🇬🇷 and more!
I’d love to help.
You’re in Good Hands
With over 20 years of experience and proudly in business since 2005, I bring a practical, creative, and collaborative approach to every project. I’m happy to:
• Work with your existing builder and trades
• Provide referrals when needed
• Offer as-needed consultations tailored to your goals
Thinking about improving your outdoor space? Contact me directly:
📞 416-889-2642 call & text
💌 AVAinteriorDesign@yahoo.ca
🌐 www.AVAinteriorDesign.ca
Let’s talk. A short conversation can make a world of difference.