In Profile:
Paula Interiors

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future.
1. Color and pattern to make spaces memorable and lively.
2. Functionality and comfort so interiors work beautifully for everyday life.
3. Durability and adaptability choosing pieces that last and can be reused or reimagined.
4. Personalization ensuring each space reflects the client’s character and story.
5. Innovation:using new materials, products, and technologies to expand creative
possibilities.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be?

Don’t be afraid of color and pattern. Even small pops or subtle textures can transform a room and lift the mood. Design should tell a story about who you are, how you live, and what makes a space feel personal and inspiring.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
The Awards are incredibly meaningful—they celebrate creativity, innovation, and excellence on a global scale. Being shortlisted validates the work we do at Paula Interiors and motivates me to continue pushing boundaries while delivering interiors that delight, inspire, and function beautifully.

What projects are you currently working on?
I’m juggling a mix of full-home designs, remodels, and single-room projects. Each one challenges me differently, letting me experiment with color, style, and materials while exercising all parts of my creativity. I love the problem-solving, the layering of textures, and discovering new ways to make spaces both functional and extraordinary.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?
A full-house project is always my favorite. It allows me to tell a complete story across every room. I enjoy exploring colors, patterns, and textures while finding ways to unify the entire home. Seeing the space come together to reflect the family’s personality and lifestyle is incredibly rewarding.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?

Full-home projects are challenging because every decision affects the next—furniture, color, lighting, and flow must all work together. Balancing creativity with practicality takes focus, but it’s deeply satisfying to see how all the elements harmonize into a home that’s both beautiful and functional.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing? E.g. Lighting companies, furniture companies

I rely on versatile, high-quality furniture, lighting, and materials that can adapt to different spaces and styles. These pieces allow me to play with texture, pattern, and color, helping me create layered, inviting, and personal interiors that truly feel like home.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months? 

Over the next year, I aim to grow my brand and social media presence, sharing the inspiration behind each project. I also want to take on more full-home designs, exploring bold combinations of color, texture, and pattern while creating cohesive, functional, and livable spaces.

Your most treasured possession?

My creativity—and the brain that never stops imagining. It drives every project, helps me solve problems in unique ways, and keeps my work exciting and personal.

Your favourite holiday destination?
I love Europe design is everywhere, from architecture to interiors, and the food is amazing. Traveling there always inspires me, from the big ideas to the small details in everyday life.

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?

Restaurant:
Bar:
Hotel:
I don’t tend to pick just one. I’m fortunate to live in Chicago, where beautiful design and amazing food are everywhere. I love discovering new hotels, restaurants, and bars that spark inspiration and showcase thoughtful details, colors, and textures.

Your favourite book, film & song?
Film: Victoria Beckham Documentary. I admire her tenacity and creativity in pursuing her dreams while building a remarkable fashion brand.
Song: I’m drawn to techno mixes, and lately, the ‘Bitter Sweet Symphony’ remix by Gamper & Dadoni has been on repeat. Its energy
and emotion are perfect for both work and inspiration.

Your favourite food and drink?
Food: I’m Colombian, and my favorite dishes are the traditional foods I enjoy when I visit home—a delicious way to reconnect with my
culture and roots.
Drink: Aperol Spritz—bright, refreshing, and perfect for relaxing while enjoying good company or creative conversation.

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Listening to music while designing. I love letting creativity flow, experimenting with color, texture, and pattern, and seeing ideas come to life.

If you weren’t in this sector, what would you alternative profession be?

I would be a fashion designer. I love watching runways, following New York and Paris Fashion Weeks, and reinventing outfits daily by mixing pieces from my closet with the perfect jewelry and shoes. Fashion is another way I play with color, texture, and creativity.

Anything else interesting?

I love helping my kids’ school and friends by designing and decorating fundraisers, parties, and events just for fun. It’s my way of bringing creativity into the world and making spaces more beautiful.