Design Destination Inspiration
As an interior designer, the world becomes your canvas.
Every corner of the globe holds the potential to ignite your creative spark. Throughout my travels, I’ve always kept a piece of each city and country through photographs, souvenirs, and even my design process. From the enchanting streets of Europe to the vibrant colors of South America and the charm of Asia, design inspiration can be found in every nook and corner. Each country, culture, and city hold a magical essence and uniqueness that yearn to be invited into a home. While countless places around the world have captured my imagination, here are some travel destinations that have inspired my designs.
Italy
I’ve always had a soft spot for Italy, and it’s easy to see why. A celebration of timeless elegance - Italy, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and impeccable craftsmanship, has long been a hub for designers and artists alike. From the Renaissance period to the modern day, Italian design continues to captivate with its distinctive style and attention to detail. One of the defining features of Italian design is its ability to blend tradition and innovation seamlessly.
When designing the Belvedere Beauty, we kept in mind how the clients wanted to incorporate elements from their travels. These stunning Belvedere Island bedrooms were inspired by a soft summer Tuscan country home with the refined elegance of a Lake Como waterfront villa. Overlooking a beautiful view of the Bay, this master bedroom blends Italian styles with plastered walls - painted by the talented Carolina Lizarraga, light silky Fortuny fabrics, custom Edward Field carpeting from Tai Ping, and classic prints.
Italy's diverse landscapes, from the romantic countryside of Tuscany to the bustling streets of Milan, create a plethora of design inspiration. Whether it's the warm color palette of rustic farmhouses or the bold and eclectic styles of contemporary Italian fashion, the country is a treasure trove of ideas waiting to be explored.
Mexico
A land of vibrant culture and rich traditions, Mexico is an endless source of inspiration for interior designers seeking to infuse energy and passion into their projects. Mexican design is characterized by its bold use of colors, intricate patterns, and a celebration of indigenous artistry.
One of the most iconic elements of Mexican design is the use of bold and vivid hues. From the cobalt blues and fiery reds to the sunny yellows and lush greens, these colors reflect the country's vibrant spirit. Traditional Mexican textiles, such as the intricate embroidery of Oaxaca or the intricate metalwork of Aztec design, can be incorporated into interiors through upholstery, decor, or wall hangings. The SF Bungalow takes on defining elements of Mexican design with touches of bright blue from this stunning coffee table, bold yellows in this Richard Colman piece, and indigenous art - like this vintage piece converted into a lamp - and combines them with MBD’s refined, collected, and contemporary design style.
Another defining feature of Mexican design is the fusion of old and new. The blending of pre-Columbian elements with modern aesthetics creates a unique and captivating atmosphere, like the contemporary woven pattern this Serena & Lily rug utilized in this project. Weavings and textiles with colorful and detailed designs, and carved wooden furniture adorned with indigenous patterns are just a few examples of how traditional Mexican craftsmanship can be seamlessly integrated into contemporary spaces.
Denmark
Hygge might be an unfamiliar phrase to some of us, but it is the most familiar feeling we all crave in a home. It is the feeling you get when you are cozy on the sofa during a gentle storm, drinking a warm cup of tea at your kitchen countertop, feeling the grass under your feet on a cool summer day, and finding joy and pleasure in the simplicity in life. This appreciation of simplicity, serenity, and functionalism has defined Danish design and transmitted itself through clean lines, soft tones, and light features. As the heart of the home, the kitchen is where Hygge begins- a place that embraces you and invites you in.
The use of light is a fundamental aspect of Danish design. With long, dark winters, Denmark has mastered the art of maximizing natural light in interiors. Large windows, light-colored walls, and strategically placed mirrors create bright and airy spaces that uplift the mood. The House in the Trees project is a favorite of mine because of its unique shapes, angles, and large windows. During the design process of this kitchen, I drew inspiration from Hygge principles, using soft paint tones from Benjamin Moore, bright spaces, organic materials, and clean minimal surfaces that induce harmony and comfort.
As an interior designer, the world is your oyster when it comes to finding design inspiration. Exploring destinations like Italy, Mexico, and Denmark opens up a world of possibilities, where each place offers unique design features and cultural nuances to incorporate into your projects. Whether you are drawn to Italy's timeless elegance, Mexico's vibrant colors, or Denmark's simplicity, MBD can help you create a unique, refined, and curated space that will inspire you every day.
