The 5 Things This 5-Star Retreat in Costa Rica Taught Me About the Luxury Client Experience

What a 5-Star Retreat in Costa Rica Taught Me About the Luxury Client Experience

Earlier this year, Anthony and I escaped to Costa Rica for a much-needed couples retreat at Sendero Nosara. Nestled between the jungle and the Pacific, this boutique 5-star hotel felt like a hidden sanctuary. The air smelled of salt and citrus, and every moment was designed with intention.

We arrived expecting rest. What we didn’t expect was to leave with a renewed understanding of what true luxury feels like. Because luxury isn’t about grandeur—it’s about the small, thoughtful details that make you feel seen, cared for, and understood.

Our stay at Sendero reminded me of what we strive to deliver for our design clients here in Connecticut. Whether it’s a Fairfield County renovation or a whole-home furnishing project, every decision contributes to one thing: an unforgettable luxury client experience.

Here’s what that stay in Costa Rica reaffirmed about creating high-touch service and how those lessons translate into the world of interior design.

1. Personalization Creates Connection

From the moment we arrived, the staff greeted us by name—every single time. They remembered our preferences, from how we took our coffee to the type of water we liked in our room. Every interaction felt warm and genuine.

That stay reminded me that luxury is in the details, not just the big moments. In design, it’s no different. Clients remember the feeling of being understood, the ease of communication, and the way every choice reflects their lifestyle.

2. Anticipation Makes You Feel Seen

We never had to ask twice. Whether it was an extra towel or a dinner reservation, everything was handled before we noticed the need.

That level of attentiveness is exactly what we bring to every project. We anticipate challenges before they arise and plan solutions before clients even think to ask. Anticipation builds trust—and trust creates loyalty.

3. Clear Systems Build Trust

At the retreat, if we placed the “please clean” sign on our door, the room was refreshed almost immediately. No confusion, no waiting, no missed cues.

In design, clear systems create the same reassurance. Our detailed proposals, weekly updates, and structured communication ensure clients always know what’s happening next. Clear signals lead to quick action, which reinforces trust.

4. Seamless Coordination Creates Ease

We had one dedicated concierge who managed every detail of our stay—from excursions to dinner reservations. With one point of contact, everything flowed seamlessly.

At House of Savoy, we take the same approach. Every client works with a dedicated project lead who manages every moving part. Behind the scenes, our full team coordinates the details. For our clients, though, it feels effortless and cohesive.

5. True Luxury Removes Friction

At Sendero, food was always available throughout the day. We didn’t need to plan or ask—it was simply there, waiting. That quiet thoughtfulness made the entire experience feel effortless.

That’s how we define a true luxury client experience. The goal is to remove friction at every stage. From the first consultation to the final install, we handle the logistics so clients can enjoy the process.

That 5-star retreat in Costa Rica reminded me that luxury isn’t about excess. It’s about ease, personalization, and seamless communication. The same principles that made our stay at Sendero unforgettable are the ones we bring to every project across Connecticut.

Because when it’s done well, a luxury client experience doesn’t just deliver a beautiful home—it builds trust, connection, and a lasting sense of care.