Gretchen Rivera-Lebrón Puts Puerto Rican Design on the Global Map

The book, authored by prominent Mexican design scholar Ana Elena Mallet, highlights two of Rivera-Lebrón’s projects: a 1930s residence in the Hato Rey district and a coffee shop located in the heart of historic Old San Juan. These inclusions serve as case studies for her signature philosophy, which prioritizes the preservation of local architectural character while adapting spaces for contemporary living.

For the Hato Rey residence, Rivera-Lebrón curated an environment centered on a young couple’s collection of local art and ceramics, honoring the structure’s original 1930s footprint. Conversely, her work in Old San Juan leans into experimental territory, interpreting the island’s deep-rooted coffee culture through a moody, contemporary lens. According to Rivera-Lebrón, these projects are grounded in the visual contrasts and cultural memory unique to Puerto Rico.

Published by Gestalten/teNeues, the 272-page volume moves away from the notion of a monolithic Latin American aesthetic. Instead, it documents how designers across 20 countries utilize local craftsmanship and historical context to shape their work. For Rivera-Lebrón, who operates Casa Casual between Puerto Rico and the Washington, D.C. area, this recognition marks a milestone in elevating the visibility of Puerto Rican design on the international stage.