Design Inspiration from Around the World: Barcelona, Mallorca, Galapagos, Cabo, and the Amazon

As an interior designer, traveling to different parts of the world can be a great source of creativity for designing unique and personalized living spaces. The stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and distinctive architecture in each location provide endless possibilities for inspiration in interior design. From the vibrant colors of Barcelona to the minimalist desert style of Cabo, incorporating design elements from these places can add character and a sense of adventure to any living space. In this blog post, we'll explore five inspiring destinations and the design techniques that make them stand out, including Mallorca, Galapagos, the Amazon, Barcelona, and Cabo.

Barcelona, Spain- Habana Hoose

This quiet little Airbnb was a memory I will never forget. Barcelona is a city full of vibrant colors and intricate details and this hotel was no exception. While walking the streets of the Gothic Quarter, I was struck by the beautiful ornate balconies and wrought-iron window grills. I noticed that many of the buildings had richly textured walls in shades of terracotta, mustard, and pale pink. These colors are perfect for adding warmth to any room. In terms of design, Barcelona is known for its use of curved lines and bold patterns. I recommend incorporating a colorful mosaic wall or a patterned tile floor into your design.

Mallorca, Spain- Cala Ratjada @ Erik’s Place

Mallorca is a Spanish island that offers a mix of rugged mountains, sandy beaches, and rolling vineyards. The traditional homes in Mallorca have simple white walls and terracotta roofs. I loved the use of natural materials like stone and wood throughout the homes. The island is also known for its beautiful gardens filled with citrus trees, cacti, and bougainvillea. Consider adding natural elements like rattan furniture or a jute rug to bring the outdoors inside.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - Las Ventanas

Cabo San Lucas is a popular vacation spot in Mexico known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. The homes in Cabo are often decorated in bright, bold colors like turquoise, coral, and yellow. I loved the use of patterned tiles and woven textiles throughout the homes. To incorporate Cabo's design style into your own home, consider adding a colorful tiled backsplash or a patterned accent wall.

Galapagos Island - Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands are a remote paradise located off the coast of Ecuador. I was drawn to the stunning beaches with crystal clear water and white sand. The design style in Galapagos is simple and minimalistic, with a focus on the natural environment. Many of the homes are built using local materials like lava rock and driftwood. I recommend incorporating natural textures like sisal rugs and woven baskets into your design.

Amazon Rainforest - Ecuador

The Amazon rainforest is one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. During my visit, I was struck by the vibrant colors and patterns found in the local textiles and crafts. The homes in the Amazon are often built using natural materials like bamboo and thatched roofs. To incorporate the Amazon's design style into your home, consider adding a woven wall hanging or a colorful tapestry. Indoor/outdoor concepts are very popular as much of the attraction of living in the Amazon is the interaction with nature.

Incorporating design inspiration from around the world is a great way to add unique and exciting elements to your home. Whether you're drawn to the colorful patterns of Barcelona or the natural textures of the Amazon, there are endless ways to incorporate global design trends into your own space.