-LET’S TALK ABOUT-
Inspiration
By M.Chaves
Inspiration is everywhere
1.1 Nature
Inspiration is everywhere. It may sound simple, but in the world of interior design, it becomes a constant reality. Over the weekend, a friend asked me where I find inspiration for my projects, and the answer spanned multiple aspects of my life and experiences. Every space I design has a story behind it, and that story often begins with the small details I discover in nature, travel, cuisine, art, and even film.
One of my greatest sources of inspiration is nature. I live near one of the largest forests in the Netherlands, and I am fortunate to be able to walk through it almost daily with Oliver, my five-year-old liver Dalmatian. As we explore together, I observe the changing seasons: the vibrant hues of autumn, the soft light of winter, the fresh blossoms of spring, and the explosion of greenery in summer. The texture of the foliage, the sound of the wind, and the natural colour palette influence the way I perceive spaces. Many times, the colour combinations I see in the forest translate into the schemes I use in my designs.
Moodboard created from a dry stick for an interior design project
2.1 Travelling and cuisine
Travelling is another inexhaustible source of inspiration. I love wandering through unfamiliar streets, absorbing the architecture, history, and the way people interact with their surroundings. The materials, facades, intricate details on balconies or antique doorways all offer ideas for integrating unique elements into my projects. It is not merely about replicating styles but rather understanding what makes a space welcoming, functional, and beautiful across different cultures. Even when I return home, I often recreate dishes I have tasted during my travels, and almost unconsciously, the colours and textures of those ingredients inspire new design concepts.
Cuisine serves as a bridge between design and memory. The flavours of a dish can transport me to specific places and moments, making me think about how to translate those sensations into an interior. The crunch of a perfectly baked pastry, the vivid colours of a fresh salad, the warmth of a homemade soup—all these elements inspire combinations of materials, textiles, and colour palettes for my projects.
3.1 Art
Art is another essential source of inspiration. Whenever I have the opportunity, I visit museums, from classical to contemporary. I once visited the Natural History Museum in London, where I came across an exhibition recreating Stone Age dwellings. That experience led me to design a leather armchair with a rustic yet sophisticated aesthetic. Modern art, sculpture, and even Renaissance frescoes have influenced my approach to spatial composition and textural integration.
Moreover, books and biographies of fascinating individuals provide a constant source of learning and inspiration. Reading about designers, artists, and architects allows me to see design from different perspectives. It is always intriguing to discover the creative processes of others and how they overcame challenges in their work.
Detail of a Louis XIV paint in Versailles
4.1 Cinema
Cinema also plays an important role in my inspiration. Some films tell a story not only through their characters but also through their set design. Recently, the film about Maria Callas captivated me with its remarkable production design and cinematography, where every frame felt like a meticulously composed painting. Another example is “The Parent Trap”, where the contrast between the London and California settings beautifully reflects the characters’ personalities. These details make me reflect on how design can influence the perception of a space and the experience of those who inhabit it.
Scene from “Maria” film and some samples of its textures
Final thoughts
Yet, beyond all these sources of inspiration, the most crucial aspect of every project is understanding my clients. Getting to know who they are, what makes them feel comfortable, and how they wish to live in their spaces is key to creating something authentic and personal. Ultimately, interior design is not just about crafting beautiful spaces—it is about giving them meaning and ensuring they reflect the essence of those who live in them.
Inspiration can be found anywhere. The key is to pay attention to details, engage the senses, and allow each experience to teach us something new. And slowly, each project comes to life with a unique story behind it.
Mauricio C.