A Design Story Rooted in Nature, Art, and Intention

This year, we celebrate 14 years of Jade Nosara—a space that has grown, evolved, and deepened with time. What began as a vision has become a living, breathing sanctuary—one that prepares you to take on the world. At the heart of that vision is design.

JADE NOSARA

Jade Nosara was brought to life by renowned architect Donal Loria Prendas, an internationally recognized designer whose work has received prestigious awards for its harmony with the natural world. From the very beginning, his approach was clear: build not on the land, but with it.

Donald Loria's design philosophy is rooted in a relationship between architecture and the natural world. At Jade Nosara, buildings blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, creating spaces that invite reflection, connection, and a sense of belonging. The result is more than a destination—it is an experience that awakens the senses and nurtures the soul.

The Garden as a Living Canvas

Over the past 14 years, Jade’s gardens have matured into something magical—often described as the “Garden of Eden.” What was once planted with intention has now grown into a lush, immersive environment where art and nature intertwine.

Every corner reveals something unexpected: a quiet place to reflect, a burst of tropical color, a moment of stillness. The design allows the land to lead—and over time, it has told its own story.

Spaces Designed for Experience

We are proud to showcase the work of renowned Costa Rican sculptor Ángel Lara Vargas. Raised in his father's sculpture workshop and trained at both the Castella Conservatory and the University of Costa Rica, Ángel developed a deep appreciation for traditional stone carving before evolving his artistic practice into the creation of contemporary sculptural forms that blur the line between art and function. His work can be found across the globe, from Australia and Germany to Russia, the United States, and South Korea, where his largest sculpture—a 4.5-meter torso—stands today. Here in Nosara, Ángel's distinctive pieces have become part of the cultural landscape, with installations at Jade Nosara, La Catedral, the Nosara Skatepark, and along Calle de Modelo near Rosie's Soda. His sculptures reflect the creativity, craftsmanship, and connection to places that make Nosara such a special community.

There are several resin sculptures by Artist Manuel Castro in the garden. Manuel is a tattoo artist, acrylic and oil painter, sculptor, artist in wood carvings in half relief, he made his first tattoo at 12 years of age and was always looking for new learning, 

Matt Kwest  is a  multidisciplinary artist whose practice seamlessly blends the raw energy of graffiti culture with the vast, ambitious scale of large-scale sculptural interventions. For over two decades, he has garnered international acclaim, transforming urban landscapes into immersive, visually striking experiences—all while remaining true to his origins as a graffiti writer.

Amid the tropical greenery of Jade Nosara’s Garden, Kwest’s sculpture GHOST rises like a conversation between art and nature — bold in form, yet in perfect harmony with its surroundings.

A Legacy of Creativity and Care

Fourteen years later, Jade continues to evolve—but its foundation remains unchanged. The design still honors the land, the community, and the experience of those who pass through.

As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect not only on how far Jade has come, but on what it continues to become.

A place of beauty.
A place of intention.
A space that prepares you to take on the world.

Nosara has long been known for its pristine beaches, world-class surf, wellness culture, and Blue Zone lifestyle. Yet in recent years, another movement has quietly taken root—an expanding creative community that is transforming the town into one of Costa Rica's most inspiring destinations for artists, makers, musicians, and storytellers.

This creative evolution feels natural. Nosara attracts people seeking purpose, connection, and a slower pace of life—qualities that often nurture artistic expression. The same environment that inspires surfers, yogis, and wellness seekers also inspires painters, writers, photographers, and designers.

At Jade Nosara, we celebrate this spirit through our Artist in Residence program, collaborations with local creators, and ongoing efforts to integrate art into the guest experience. Whether enjoying a sculpture hidden among the gardens, attending a local exhibition, or simply finding inspiration beneath a mango tree, guests become part of Nosara's unfolding creative story.

We invite you to experience the growing creative spirit of Nosara and discover how art, nature, and community come together at Jade Nosara.