Madrid-based Luis Bustamante, 62, began his career as a painter and sculptor, and now works as an interior designer. With his appreciation for—and deep understanding of—art, he’s developed a style that works well for art collectors.
As such, his interior design work has spanned residential and commercial projects around the world, including Barcelona, Madrid, New York, Miami, the Hamptons, London, Gstaad, the Dominican Republic, Mexico and more.
We caught up with Mr. Bustamante, who recently a book called "New Perspectives," to discuss why comfort is his top priority when it comes to interior design, his love of books (to read and as a design element, too), and much more.
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Mansion Global: Describe your dream property.Luis Bustamante: A home where you can feel the culture of the people who live there.
MG: What does luxury mean to you? LB: A balance between culture and silence. Time is also a luxury and nowadays we don’t have much. In my projects, one of the most important things I focus on is comfort. Our homes are where we spend most of our free time with family and friends, so giving a comfortable feel to my projects is a top priority.
MG: Where are the best luxury homes in the world and why?
LB: In the United States. People give more importance to comfort, aesthetics and quality, which are the basic things that obtain the perfect balance in a home.
MG: What’s your favorite part of your home?
LB: My library. I love books and it’s where I like to spend most of my free time. I sit in my library to read or just listen to music and observe my books.
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MG: What best describes the theme of your home and why?
LB: My home can be described as a renovated classic. It has a mix between classic symmetry and a contemporary feel. I’m very inspired by classic architecture and modern art, which allows me to think up interesting design combinations.
MG: What’s the most valuable thing in your home?LB: My books, they give the best ambience and add character to every room. Instead of having them hidden away, they are artfully arranged, adding instant warmth and fine character to my home and my family.
MG:What’s the most valuable amenity to have in a home right now?LB: A gym/spa or anything that allows for relaxation. Having a space for relaxation is the best thing to have at home so you don’t have to spend or lose time at other places.
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MG: What’s your best piece of real estate advice?
LB: Rebuy old apartments, rebuild them for yourself with your standards of quality and resell them. I love rebuilding apartments as well as homes. This is not only my job, but my passion and also a business.
MG:If you had a choice of living in a new development or a prime resale property, which would you choose and why?
LB: I would buy a resale property because I like the idea of building an entire home around my preferences. I enjoy building homes and designing them from the ground up to fit my style.