If you ask us, Gloria Gonzalez might just have the most inspiring feed on all of Instagram. Her exquisite curation of interiors from around the world never misses the mark: Every room is beautiful, colorful, layered, and timelessly chic. Having grown up in Spain, Gloria was continuously inspired by the art and design around her. Gloria received her master's degree in Art History in Spain and went on to work for the Spanish fashion brand, Loewe. Now based in London, Gloria uses her in-depth knowledge of art and design to consult with various brands in the interior design industry. She works with her clients on marketing, social media, finding new retailers for their product, private sourcing and more. We discovered Gloria's wonderful blog, Directorio Deco, years ago, and regularly reference it for inspiring interiors and interesting interviews. Read on to discover some of Gloria's design favorites and resources, and if you're not already doing so, we'd recommend following her on Instagram immediately!
What moment lured you into the world of design and interiors?
I have always been interested in Decorative Arts and after finishing my degree in History of Art in Spain, I moved to the UK. After visiting many museums and historic homes here, I felt completely inspired. Little by little I started to meet people in the industry and that brought me opportunities that eventually led to a new career path.
What are a few of your favorite projects you’ve worked on?
While working at Loewe, I was involved with the launch of the Loewe Foundation’s Craft Prize which acknowledges and supports international artisans who demonstrate an exceptional ability to create objects of superior aesthetic value. All the finalists came to Madrid and as someone who loves craftsmanship it was an overall wonderful experience.
Another great project I have fond memories of was collaborating in Wicklewood’s first pop up in London alongside Rococo Davis and Sophie Conran. I curated Spanish ceramics for it and it was great to interact with many people in 'real life', beyond the computer or mobile phone.
How did your blog start? Where do you find content for it?
A year or so after I started my Instagram account I realized that the platform wasn’t enough for all of the information I would like to share, so I decided to start the blog. The content varies but one thing is constant: I only write about the things I love and I’m passionate about.
It can come from a book that I've read, a film I've watched, or a trip I've taken. I also love doing interviews which is a great way to learn more about the people I admire. I did one about Annabelle last year!
What are some of the challenges you face working in this industry?
My job is rarely 9 to 5, and I need to be quite flexible. You get used to it but it’s always tricky to switch off. Like in any other creative industry, I find sometimes people can take your knowledge and time for granted so you really need to be aware of your value. We all have bills to pay and I’m no different.
Where do you seek inspiration?
Mostly in books, old magazines, and museums!
Describe your aesthetic in five words or less.
Eclectic, relaxed, unexpected.
What colors are you most drawn to?
Shades of green, pink & red, blue, and lately yellow.
Where in your travels has most inspired the design in your home?
There is no one place, in particular, it has been many! My style is mostly shaped by the places where I spend most of my time which are the UK and Spain. I love both cultures and my home reflects that.
Favorite fabrics of all time?
Dianthus Chintz by Soane Britain
Squiggle by Colefax and Fowler
Osborne by Blithfield
Casse Noisette by Decors Barbares
Fabric wallpapers?
Nasturtium by Lake August
Espalier and Toile de Nantes by La Maison Pierre Frey
Raphael by Sanberg
What are your three favorite hotels?
Finca Cortesin in Andalucia in Spain, La Mirande in Avignon in France, and Landa in Burgos in Spain.
Favorite museum?
Do you collect anything?
Not that I do it intentionally, but I tend to buy popular pottery, especially Spanish. One day I would like to have a curated collection that reflects the character and uniqueness of my favorite regions.
What are your favorite antique stores or artisan workshops that you've discovered?
Brownrigg has always an amazing selection of European antiques and a mix of styles that somehow work perfectly together.
Alfred Newall makes the most beautiful wooden furniture pieces. His bobbin tables are a must-have – I love mine!
Jay Davey, a great maker of bespoke willow works.
What Instagram accounts do you follow for design inspiration?
There are so many but to name a few:
What design "rule" is made to be broken?
That you can’t use wallpaper or busy patterns in a small space. You not only can but you should!
