- Interior
French-born and Spanish-based antique dealer and interior designer Serge Castella elucidates his fresh artistic take on his monochrome and mid-century modern style. His idiosyncratic vision translates into a limited palette, adding richness and atmosphere through texture and form.
How would you describe your aesthetic?
‘Unique and handmade designs placed in an environment where they do not clash. My golden rule is that the object remains on its own: sober and meaningful. Historical reconstructions do not interest me. On the contrary, I prefer to harmoniously integrate objects from different periods. Combining antiques and twentieth-century designs always works.’ 
Combining antiques and twentieth-century designs always works.
Which of your projects are you particularly proud of?
‘I am attached to each of my projects.There is a piece of me in every project. It is like asking a parent which child he likes best. I am proud of all my projects.’
One of your latest projects has a beautiful serene palette of colours and materials. What was the idea behind this?
‘This project is the transformation and renovation of an old barn into a guesthouse, located in the gardens of my new estate in the Empordà province of Spain. "e building stands at the end of the house’s garden, with views of the main house on one side and the Spanish countryside on the other. My wish was to create a relaxing and contemporary environment through the use of colours and tones, local materials and architectural techniques.’ 
What message did you want to convey with this creation?
‘I want my guests to feel at home, but also to feel like they are in Spain. Because it’s a guest house, I want it to be an intimate space, so I only have one big bedroom and one big bathroom, both on the second floor. In general, my main goal is to create comfortable environments that correspond to the way we live today, while reminding you of where you are.’
What is your advice for other young designers who want to build their own style?
‘Most successful designers have their priorities which they defend with culture and creativity.’ 
What a beautiful ending to our interview. We got a broader view into Serge Castella’s life and learned more about the philosophy behind his studio. Imagicasa is keeping an eye on Serge Castella for more of his beautiful projects in the future.
Would you like to know more about Serge Castella? Read the full article in Imagicasa Design 2021.
Images courtesy of Serge Castella
Photography by Eugeni Pons