Luis Garcia Fraile is a renowned interior designer from Madrid, famous for his style that blends the classical with the contemporary. He founded his studio in 2011 and has worked with numerous celebrities and luxury brands.
How would you describe yourself to those who don't know your work?
"I would describe my work as having a classical base, with one foot in the past and the other in the future, always with a lot of color."
Your spaces are known for their use of bold colors and a mix of furniture with strong personality. What’s the intention behind that?
"Yes. It’s important to me that the eye travels through the space as you look around, your eye keeps moving. I want it to go from one object to another. That’s why I like having pieces at different heights; this helps guide the eye.
I see my interiors like cocktails they can be more or less sparkling depending on the ingredients. Some have more ‘ingredients’ and others fewer, depending on the client’s personality. In the end, the client’s personality plays a big role in my spaces."
Where do you find inspiration?
"Everywhere museums, shops, walks… you always have to keep your eyes wide open.
Also, I consider myself a sponge… I absorb ideas from everywhere."
You mix modernity with tradition. What’s the oldest thing you’ve bought for your home? And the most modern?
"The oldest things in my home are inherited… (they’re usually the most expensive), and the most modern is always art."
A store or designer to keep an eye on.
"There are many stores, Madrid has more and more, and they’re already well known. I love American décor Jeffrey Bilhuber and Steven Gambrel are some of my favorites."
What’s the most important room in a home for you?
"I love my bedroom, especially my bed. I always like to invest in good, expensive sheets. Some people prefer to spend on a good car, but I spend more time in my bed than in my car, so I think it’s worth the investment."
What’s your favorite hotel you’ve stayed in?
"Hotel Landa in Burgos and the Marbella Club are by far my favorites. I’m also in love with Room Mate Mia in Rome, which I just decorated."
How important is footwear in your daily life?
"Very! A man is dressed from the feet up."
Which are your perfect Cayumas?
"The Rigoletto, without a doubt."
