What is your creative process when integrating natural elements and ceramic materials in your designs?
R.C.: In any design, I always start with a “mental” briefing and often unexpectedly find a “leitmotif”. For Casa Decor, I envisioned the ambiance I wanted to create, the color palette inspired by a Casamance fabric, and the tapestry. I knew I wanted a natural stone floor, and together with David, we chose one from Campaspero in Cupa Stone. It had an exquisite off-white material and a Polaris quartzite that could be backlit, blending perfectly. From there, we selected SapienStone’s Piasentina in anthracite gray with a smooth grain for the doors and a smooth finish for the kitchen countertop. The combination looked wonderful and was the perfect enclosure for the outdoor dining area. Generally, I prioritize natural materials like stone and marble in various environments I design. For areas where natural stone isn't practical, be it for cleanliness, safety, water areas, etc. then I use ceramic materials.
We found a natural stone flowerpot from the early 20th century at the antique shop Marsol e Hijos, which we placed next to the kitchen with a cactus inside. This became a key element in terms of materials.
We also integrated natural stone in the planters and the chill-out area surrounding the pool.
After hearing about your creative process, we are now interested in another key aspect of your projects. How does sustainability influence your design decisions and choice of materials?
R.C.: It's quite simple: I never use materials that aren't sustainable or haven't passed the FSC certification. I prefer high-quality, noble materials like stone, ceramics, wood, and metals, complemented by sustainable fabrics, natural elements, and technological innovation. Ultimately, everything I choose helps create healthy and balanced spaces.
What key recommendations do you offer to ensure that an outdoor kitchen is practical and functional all year round?
R.C.: Regardless of whether the kitchen is against a wall or free-standing, it must be able to withstand extreme weather conditions, from beach areas with salt and sand to mountain areas with snow, and cities with high pollution.
Moreover, it must be very practical, so it should be easy to clean with brine and not require drying. All parts, like taps, sinks, and gears, should be made of stainless steel to prevent rust, and the coating and interior should maintain their rigidity. The countertop should not conduct heat, which could burn the user, making porcelain stoneware an optimal choice.
Thinking about the use of high-quality ceramic materials like SapienStone (available in Spain through Cupa Stone), what future advice would you give designers?
R.C.: Ensure that the ceramic materials used in a space complement each other. This can be achieved by staying within the same range, formats and textures, or by creating chromatic contrasts while maintaining the same caliber.
Definitely also consider making indentations or separations for lighting to highlight the material’s beauty and movement. Always prioritize safety by ensuring the material is not slippery and choosing the appropriate treatment and finish, whether sandblasted, honed, or polished.
To what extent do factors like color and texture of other outdoor elements influence your design process? How important are complements in your creations?
D.A.: Every single element is crucial to the design. Paying attention to even the smallest detail is what drives the creative process at Xaza. Our work rarely starts from scratch; we prioritize integrating and collaborating with the environment. This gives us the opportunity to draw inspiration from the existing colors and textures of the surrounding environment and architecture. Lastly, accessories give the space a sense of life and invite people to use it, which is what we all seek in a space.
What ornamental species do you choose and recommend most often in your outdoor designs, considering aesthetic, functional, and maintenance aspects?
D.A.: I don't have a definitive list of species because I focus on creating compositions that meet the client’s needs. This of course includes unique factors such as soil quality, desired care and the final aesthetic effect you are looking to achieve. Perhaps I should determine these key species, and I am actually in the process of doing so, but I often find myself exploring nurseries to find the perfect combination that fits my vision.
What sources of inspiration do you use to develop your exterior designs?
D.A.: It might seem obvious, but my main source of inspiration is nature itself, which surrounds us everywhere we go. Being passionate about my work is both a blessing and a curse because I can't escape it. Every time I leave home, go on a trip, or visit a construction site, I return to the office with dozens of photos and ideas.
In anticipation of what's to come, what trends do you see emerging in landscaping?
D.A.: One trend I see becoming more prominent is clients valuing organic and sustainable long-term integration with the environment over more square designs. There’s also a shift towards creating versatile exteriors designed to be lived in and used as long as possible, enhancing quality of life over aesthetics.
Considering your experience at Casa Decor and the positive impact your work has had, are you planning to participate again in the next edition of Casa Decor?
R.C. and D.A.: As winners we have a slot for next year, but neither of us know what will happen.
