Few figures have been as influential in shaping the way we conceive the hotel experience as Isabel López Vilalta. Her perspective, deeply respectful of the surrounding context, combines functional rigour with restrained emotion—free from excess or artifice. Isabel sees interior design as a tool to bring meaning, soul, and coherence to spaces, and champions an honest beauty that is aligned with the place and the people who inhabit it.
With over two decades of experience designing some of the country’s most iconic hotels, her studio has forged a solid path while remaining open to experimentation. In this conversation with her at the Tivoli Kopke Hotel in Porto, one of her most recent projects, we talk about architecture, emotion, sustainability, collaboration, and all that transforms a project into something truly unique.
We’ve had the opportunity to collaborate on the Hotel Santa María Briones project in La Rioja, and today we take a closer look at both her professional and human side.
Isabel, your career has set a benchmark in hotel interior design. Could you share with us how you first began working in this field?
I’ve been practising this profession for many years now. One of the first hotels I remember designing was the now-closed Hotel Omm, 21 years ago. That means we probably started working on it more than two decades ago. I’m very proud that its rooms and corridors have remained virtually unchanged to this day. The common areas have been adapted to suit the new operator, of course, but I take pride in that longevity because I believe it reflects the right approach to hotel design.
Some of the words we’ve come across to describe your work include: “Functional, but never dull.” “Honest in both design and materials, with a warm yet austere elegance.” So, who is Isabel López Vilalta, and how would you define yourselves as a brand? What is it that sets you apart—what makes you truly unique?
I like to approach projects with a sense of responsibility—ensuring they work, but also that they don’t leave you indifferent. I believe it’s essential to observe and analyse where the project is located and what kind of architecture we’re working within as interior designers, in order to respond in a way that is appropriate, honest, and elegant. Elegant, to me, means something that is true to its purpose. When all of this is achieved in an honest and unpretentious way, it often ends up setting a trend—not because it’s fashionable, but because it leads by example.
Every creative has their own references and sources of inspiration. Who are yours?
My sources of inspiration are many and varied, but architecture is definitely the most important. I’m fascinated by good architecture—simple, beautiful, and effective. I’ve just returned from a wonderful trip to Porto, where I had the chance to explore in detail the works of Távora, Siza, and Souto de Moura, accompanied by dear friends—truly, it doesn’t get better than that! Travelling to visit great architectural landmarks, attending exhibitions of painting or sculpture, or watching a dance performance can all be incredibly stimulating.
You are known for creating spaces that evoke emotions and tell stories. In fact, we’ve read that for you, a design is truly successful when it moves you. How would you describe the relationship between space and emotion?
When I design, I like to put myself in the user’s shoes and imagine what sensations they might experience upon arrival, and what their first impressions might be when using any of the various spaces within the hotel. In fact, I believe that designing in this genuine, empathetic way ultimately manifests in the space itself, allowing it to evoke a range of emotions.
“Every project we undertake has a soul, and it is our responsibility to know how to bring it out and reveal its various colours and forms.” What is the process of immersion and depth like to reach that essence in each project? How do you ensure that every project is unique and meaningful?
To ensure that each project is meaningful, it’s important to consider its geographical conditions—such as location, country, and neighbourhood—as well as its physical aspects like architecture and style. Equally vital is responding to the needs of the intended audience—not just their practical needs, but also anticipating the desires of future guests.
At INTERIHOTEL BCN21, you were honoured with the award for your professional career in hotel interior design, recognising you as one of the leading experts in hotel projects. What ingredients do you believe are essential for good interior design tailored to this specific functionality?
Nowadays, achieving uniqueness is very difficult because there are many consultants who hinder it. Standardising solutions is simpler, more economical, and less risky.
Which project has been the most challenging in your career, and how did you overcome it? And which one is your favourite—the one you feel most proud of?
All projects present challenges in different ways. Some because of a very close relationship with the owner, others because they must meet the expectations of many stakeholders, and some due to very tight budgets…
I feel proud of nearly all my projects. It’s difficult to choose just one. However, perhaps those that bring me the greatest satisfaction are the ones that have served as examples for other professionals—projects that have become a reference for someone else.
In your experience, what is the nature of collaboration between interior designers and hotel brands? How much does interior design influence the success of a hotel project?
Design is fundamental to the success of a business. The more closely it is tied to the values of the brand, the greater the chances of success. I believe it is the values—not just the aesthetics—that must be aligned. Through design, the brand should be able to convey all its standards. Above all, in a hotel, the service and the way the guest is cared for are essential.
Sustainability is a crucial topic in architecture and interior design today.
How do you integrate sustainable practices into your projects, and what impact do you believe they have on the hotel industry?
Sustainability is a civic responsibility. That’s why I champion projects that belong to their place, designed—whenever possible—with local materials and nearby techniques.
With technology advancing rapidly, how do you see the intersection between technology and interior design in hotels, and how do you incorporate innovation into your projects?
Technology allows buildings to be more comfortable and energy-efficient. It also provides precise control over the warmth of lighting.
In the creative realm, virtual images make it easier to understand the design proposal, although this requires considerable effort during the project phase.
Hotel interior design is a field that’s constantly evolving. Which current trends appeal to you the most, and how do you think hotel design will develop over the coming years?
The trends that appeal to me most are those that are honestly connected to the place.
What are your plans and aspirations for the future? Is there a dream project you haven’t yet had the chance to realise? Where do you see yourselves in 10 years?
My plans for the future involve consolidating a team that can operate independently, allowing me to slow down a little. Every new project brings joy and happiness. I feel very fortunate to have worked on a wide variety of projects throughout my career. I would like to continue having the opportunity to create new projects I can be proud of. I don’t “let go” until I believe I have given my very best in each and every project.
Author: Mandarina Brand
Photography: Juan Gavilán
