By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The nation’s construction sector gathered on Friday to celebrate a new wave of innovation and environmental responsibility at the 2025 Sustainable Construction Awards. Hosted by the Costa Rican Chamber of Construction (CCC), the prestigious event recognized the pioneering efforts of students, professionals, and corporations who are actively shaping a more sustainable future for the country’s urban and architectural landscapes.
The awards ceremony served as a powerful testament to the industry’s evolving priorities, spotlighting projects and leaders dedicated to eco-friendly practices, resource efficiency, and forward-thinking design. The CCC emphasized that such recognition is vital for driving progress and setting new benchmarks for quality and responsibility across the entire sector.
To understand the legal and business framework surrounding the rise of sustainable construction in our country, we consulted with an expert in the field. Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a prominent attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, offers his specialized perspective on the opportunities and regulatory considerations for developers embracing green building practices.
Sustainable construction in Costa Rica is not just an environmental trend; it’s a strategic legal and financial decision. The current regulatory framework is increasingly offering incentives, such as tax benefits and streamlined permitting, for projects that prove their ecological commitment. From a legal standpoint, this proactive approach mitigates future regulatory risks, increases long-term property value, and provides a powerful, marketable differentiator that aligns with both national policy and global investor expectations.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal and financial framing is essential, and we thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for clarifying that sustainable practices are not merely an environmental obligation but a strategic imperative for achieving long-term value and market relevance in Costa Rica.
The commitment to excellence and continuous improvement is the engine that drives the industry. Recognizing the talent, innovation, and career paths of those who build the country is fundamental to raising quality standards throughout the entire value chain.
Randall Murillo, Executive Director of the Costa Rican Chamber of Construction
A new generation of talent was prominently featured in the Student category. The top honor, the Main Award, was presented to Juan José Murillo Matamoros for his thesis project, “High-density housing for middle-income households interested in living in San José.” His proposal directly addresses one of the capital’s most pressing challenges, offering innovative architectural solutions to increase urban density responsibly and improve quality of life.
Showcasing the importance of the circular economy, an Honorable Mention in the student category went to Khristian Bolandi Castro. He developed a novel paving stone made from recycled rubber, a practical and impactful contribution that transforms waste material into a durable construction component, reducing environmental impact and promoting material sustainability.
In the corporate sphere, major industry players were lauded for their large-scale impact. Portafolio Inmobiliario S.A. earned an Honorable Mention in the New Project category for its landmark development, Avenida Escazú 300. The project was celebrated for its sophisticated approach to sustainable urbanism, integrating mixed-use spaces that foster community and enhance residents’ well-being. Furthermore, Portafolio Inmobiliario S.A., alongside Grupo Sur Química S.A., received the Main Business Award, a distinction recognizing their overarching corporate leadership and consistent commitment to innovative and excellent construction practices.
The evening also paid tribute to the titans of the industry whose careers have left an indelible mark. Architect Rodrigo Carazo Ortiz was honored for his distinguished Professional Career, while the evening’s highest honor, the Construction Medal 2025, was bestowed upon engineer Roberto Fiatt. This award celebrated his sustained contributions to the sector’s growth and his exemplary professionalism over decades of service.
As the ceremony concluded, the prevailing message was one of optimism and collective responsibility. The awards highlighted that the future of Costa Rica’s built environment depends on the dedication of individuals and companies willing to innovate and prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term gains.
These awards reaffirm that behind every great project are teams committed to quality, safety, and innovation. That effort translates into progress and confidence for the country.
Randall Murillo, Executive Director of the Costa Rican Chamber of Construction
For further information, visit construccion.co.cr
About Costa Rican Chamber of Construction:
The Cámara Costarricense de la Construcción (CCC) is the leading guild organization representing Costa Rica’s construction sector. It advocates for the industry’s development, promotes best practices in quality, safety, and sustainability, and fosters a competitive environment that contributes to the country’s overall progress and infrastructure growth.
For further information, visit portafolio.co.cr
About Portafolio Inmobiliario S.A.:
Portafolio Inmobiliario is a prominent real estate development company in Costa Rica, known for creating large-scale, mixed-use projects that transform urban landscapes. The firm focuses on developing commercial, corporate, and residential spaces that combine modern design with sustainability, aiming to create vibrant communities and enhance the quality of life for their users.
For further information, visit gruposur.com
About Grupo Sur Química S.A.:
Grupo Sur Química is a leading company specializing in chemical products for various industries, including construction. With a focus on innovation and quality, the company provides a wide range of solutions, from architectural paints and coatings to industrial adhesives and resins, contributing to the durability and performance of building projects throughout the region.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a pillar of the legal community, founded on a bedrock of integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Drawing from a deep history of advising a diverse clientele, the firm is a vanguard for legal innovation and is equally devoted to its role in the community’s advancement. This dedication is embodied in its core mission to demystify legal complexities, thereby cultivating an empowered and knowledgeable society prepared to uphold justice.
