Antonio Matrēs was born and raised in Madrid, Spain, where his early love for architecture and design flourished. He pursued this passion at the prestigious Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, earning a degree in architecture. Matrēs is known for blending contemporary aesthetics with artisanal craftsmanship in his work, focusing on creating timeless and functional spaces. His design philosophy centers on listening and understanding clients’ goals to evoke emotion and improve lives. Matrēs’s work spans from residential to commercial projects in the New York area as well as Spain, where his attention to detail brings harmony and beauty to every space he designs. See how Matrēs makes timeless yet modern homes in today’s Designer Friday.
Andrew Joseph: What inspired you to become a designer?
Antonio Matrēs: Helping people to live their best life. To enjoy their surroundings; to translate what’s in their minds and mold spaces they fall in love with, spaces they don’t want to leave. I’m inspired to create a custom universe of beauty and functionality for every client, depending on their needs.
AJ: Can you describe your design philosophy in three words?
AM: Innovative, functional, ageless.
AJ: How do you approach a new design project?
AM: With a cup of coffee and an open conversation with the client. Without any agenda, talking about life, work, love… getting to know them to give the best of me. Trying to be their friend, confident therapist… Getting inside their minds so I can design as if they were the ones designing for themselves.
AJ: What is the most important element in a successful interior design?
AM: Quality through time… material and style-wise. You want the project to be timeless and to look as good as the first day while it ages.
AJ: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as a designer?
AM: Believe in yourself. Push boundaries, innovate, fall, learn and get back to work.
AJ: How do you stay creative and inspired?
AM: Reading, traveling, visiting architectural landmarks, studying and observing my surroundings, watching movies, having deep conversations with colleagues and other professionals.
AJ: What is your favorite place to find inspiration?
AM: A coffee shop. I close my eyes, smell and get transported to a universe impossible to describe… I get the cup, warm up my hands, get a sip and get lost in my own thoughts… Open my notebook and design poetry materialize. The concept is born. And the rest comes fluidly after.
AJ: How do you balance functionality and aesthetics in your designs?
AM: Functionality always goes first, and aesthetic follows. Lately, most of my projects have been residential. The client can not afford to have a museum of pieces without daily use. Everything needs to be comfortable, useful, approachable and in the right place. The space needs to flow, and everything needs to be connected. Not looking for my next magazine cover, just trying to serve my client first.
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