Today we’d like to introduce you to Catalina Patino.
Hi Catalina, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born in Bogotá, Colombia, and moved to the U.S. when I was young, which is where I studied interior design and really started building my path. But honestly, I think my connection to design started much earlier—I’ve always been very sensitive to spaces, to how they feel, the energy, the light… all those little things that make a place special.
Over the past 20 years, my work has taken me to different cities and countries—Miami, Cartagena, Panama, and now Marbella—and each place has influenced me in a different way. I love that part of my career, because it keeps my perspective evolving. I don’t believe in a single style; for me, it’s more about creating something that feels right for the space and for the person living in it.
Although most of my work is residential, I’ve also had the opportunity to work on commercial projects, including a coffee shop and different building areas. Those experiences have given me a broader understanding of how people move through spaces and how design needs to respond not only aesthetically, but also functionally at a larger scale.
As I grew professionally, my role naturally became much more hands-on. I’m very involved in the entire process—from the first ideas all the way to the final details on site. I really enjoy that part, being present, solving things, and making sure everything comes together the way it was envisioned. It’s a big responsibility, but also the most rewarding part of what I do.
Gaia came very organically from that journey. It wasn’t something forced—it was more a reflection of how I already work. For me, it’s about creating spaces that feel elevated but still comfortable, beautiful but also livable. I always want my clients to walk into their homes and feel like everything just flows.
At the end of the day, I think what I love most is being able to transform a space into something that truly reflects a lifestyle. That’s what keeps me inspired.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There have been a lot of beautiful moments, of course, but also many challenges that people don’t really see. This industry asks a lot from you—not just creatively, but emotionally and mentally. You’re constantly balancing expectations, timelines, budgets, personalities… and trying to turn an idea into something real, which is never as simple as it looks.
There were moments where things felt heavy—projects not going as planned, difficult situations on site, or just the pressure of carrying so much responsibility. And at the same time, building something of your own comes with its own challenges. You’re making decisions every day, sometimes without knowing exactly how things will unfold, just trusting your instinct and moving forward.
For me, one of the hardest parts has been learning how to hold all of that while still staying connected to the creative side—the part that I love the most. It’s a constant balance between being strong, being flexible, and still being sensitive enough to create something meaningful.
Working in different countries has also been beautiful, but not always easy. Every place has its own rhythm, its own way of doing things, and adapting to that while keeping your standards and vision takes a lot of patience and resilience.
But I think all of that has shaped me in a very deep way. It’s made me stronger, more intuitive, and more grounded. I’ve learned to trust myself, to stay calm in difficult moments, and to understand that challenges are part of the process—not something to avoid, but something that helps you grow.
And in a way, that’s what makes it all so rewarding.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I work as an interior designer, but my role goes beyond just design. I’m very involved in the full process—from concept and planning to execution and final installation—working closely with clients, architects, and contractors to make sure everything comes together as intended.
Most of my work is residential, with some commercial projects like a coffee shop and building areas, which has given me a broader perspective on how people experience spaces.
I specialize in creating spaces that feel elevated but still very livable. I focus a lot on balance—materials, lighting, proportions—and how everything flows together.
What I’m most proud of is how hands-on I am. I really stay involved in every detail, making sure the vision is not only beautiful but also well executed.
I think what sets me apart is that combination of design and project oversight—I’m not just creating the space, I’m guiding the entire process to make it feel seamless for my clients.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Oh yes… very much so. I don’t think any of this would be possible without the people around me.
I may be the face of Gaia, but behind that, there’s truly an entire “army” supporting me every day.
But on a deeper level, my biggest support has always been my family. My partner in life, my parents, and my brother—they’ve been there through every stage, in the good moments and the challenging ones. What makes it even more special is that they’re also part of Gaia, so in many ways, this journey has been something we’ve built together. That means a lot to me.
I’ve also been very fortunate to have mentors along the way, especially during my early years—professors who believed in me and helped me find my confidence. And over time, colleagues and collaborators who have supported me, shared knowledge, and made the journey feel less lonely.
And honestly, my clients are a big part of this story too. The trust they give me, the way they open their homes and their lives—it’s something I don’t take lightly. That connection is what makes the work so meaningful.
So while I may be the one people see, there’s a lot of love, support, and teamwork behind everything I do… and I’m truly grateful for that.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gaiadesignstudiollc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaiadesignstudiollc/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catalina-patino-407b7a73/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@gaiadesignstudio
