Marie-Caroline Willms is an architect and creative director of EMCI Design Studio, based in Marbella and Madrid. Her style is defined by timeless interiors, blending layers that surprise without being pretentious. With projects throughout Europe, her approach combines aesthetic sensibility, comfort and artisanal narratives.
Marie‑Caroline, your design philosophy involves mapping out your clients’ ‘typical day’ in order to create natural flows in their spaces. Can you share an example where this approach completely transformed a project?
“Orientation and a natural flow is essential in any space planning of every project. There needs to be a certain logic and order of how to move from one space to the next. For example a family beach home the kids´s first stop back home from the beach would be the kitchen for a drink and snack and then probably the garden pool. If the kitchen door is the fist natural entrance from where they arrive there is a good flow. If they would have to cross the entire house first, leaving a sandy foot trail – the space planning would be inconvenient and result in more maintenance.”
How do you decide how to blend artisanal, upcycled, and collected objects in a room alongside modern pieces?
“I look for the perfection in the imperfection – which creates the charm. I look for a miss match, contrast but harmony at the same time.”
You’ve worked on yachts, private jets, and even an island. What is the most challenging aspect of designing a space that also needs to function in motion?
“All design has to be functional just as aesthetic. I see no challenge, but it is essential to use materials which are high performance and much better endure the hard conditions such as a sunny yacht deck.”
What is your favorite color for walls and why?
“One of my favorite colors is Blue Ground from Farrow and Ball which sets a beautiful background for antique frames or modern art just the same.”
What absolutely cannot be missing in a room for you?
“Layers of miss match of some sort to create a unpretentious charm.”
Is there a designer who currently influences you?
“Not specifically. I pride myself in creating inspirational projects, each unique so each can shine with their own style and spirit.”
What is your favorite hotel?
“The Marbella Club Hotel of course which I designed and hence have a emotional connection to.”
Which place in the world would you love to explore wearing your Cayumas?
“Any place which is a charming small old village which still have traditional crafts. And defiantly go to Venice to go see the old Gentleman make these beautiful shoes.”
How would you design your perfect pair of Cayumas?
“I would find some vintage textiles, probably handwoven by some ancient tribe who keep their heritage and storytelling alive with their traditional weaving methods, and add a soft leather trim.”
