Olga Gil-Vernet: designing spaces with a soul inspired by nature
From her sanctuary in Barcelona, Olga Gil-Vernet transforms interiors with sensitivity, attentive listening, and a profound connection to the essential.
Olga Gil-Vernet, interior designer in Barcelona, explains how she designs spaces that breathe and connect with nature. In this interview, we discover her career, creative process, and philosophy for transforming homes with a soul. With an innate sensitivity and a deep connection to the environment, Olga is one of those professionals who understand the interior design as an act of listening, emotion and balance.
Tell us about yourself and your work. Where did your vocation start? Any first memories?
Ever since I was very little, I felt a fascination for spaces. I remember how I used to amuse myself by rearranging my bedroom over and over again, trying to get everything to fit together harmoniously, even without yet knowing what interior design was. I would pay attention to colours, to the way the light came through the window, to the objects on a table... and how all of that could convey different feelings.
My vocation was born naturally, as a mix between aesthetic sensitivity and the need to create spaces with a soul. Over time, I understood that it wasn't just about decorating, but about interpreting people's lives through the spaces they inhabit. And that's when I knew I wanted to dedicate myself to this.
What do you find most satisfying about your work, and is there anything you are particularly proud of?
What satisfies me most is seeing how a space transforms not only physically, but in the way it impacts the life of the person who lives in it. It thrills me when a client tells me that they now enjoy their home more, that they feel at peace or that their home finally reflects who they are.
For me, that is the true success of design: when aesthetics and functionality align with emotion and identity.
There are many projects that I remember fondly, but one that was especially significant was the renovation of an old house into a charming hotel, Mas Ferran (Pals).
We managed to respect its history, recover original elements and, at the same time, adapt it to a new stage of life. The result was more than a transformed space: it was a bridge between memory and the present. Those are the kinds of projects that truly make me feel proud of my work.
What is your creative process like, what are your sources of inspiration, any particular music while working?
My creative process always begins with observation and listening. Before thinking about materials or colours, I need to understand people: how they live, what they need, what inspires them. From there, the search for coherence between functionality, beauty and emotion begins.
My great source of inspiration is nature. It guides me in colour palettes, in textures, in the soft yet deep contrasts that the organic world holds. I am inspired by its balance, its imperfection, its ability to convey calm. I try to bring that very same feeling to the spaces I design: that they breathe, that they connect with the essential, that they feel alive.
I don't usually work with music because my job is very dynamic; I don't spend the day in an office. I'm constantly up and down: interior design styling shoots for magazines, site visits, suppliers, material shops, choosing finishes, touching fabrics... It's a very sensory job on the move.
However, on social media I do accompany my content with classical music, especially piano, because I believe it reflects very well the atmosphere I seek to convey: balance, sensitivity and serene beauty.
Favourite colour, book, film and record - in that order! ;D
Is your home a reflection of who you are? Tell us what it smells like, your favourite corner, your favourite decorative object or piece of furniture, if you treasure a collection... And if you have a pet, introduce it to us!
My house is a very honest reflection of who I am, although — as the saying goes — the shoemaker's children go barefoot.
I’m not looking for perfection; it’s a peaceful space, with plenty of natural light, high-quality materials and a soft colour scheme that invites you to relax. I like it to smell clean, like freshly washed linen… and like a lit candle! A home that’s lived in.
My favourite nook is a small sofa by the window, where I like to read. It's my pause spot.
I have a weakness for objects with a history, which is why I keep a few inherited pieces that live alongside more contemporary ones. My favourite piece of furniture is a vintage armchair. I'm not one for collections and I don't have a pet either, although I love animals.
If you could buy anything right now and take it home, what would it be? Anything!
Well, a sideboard – I love them! I can picture it anywhere in the house.
A great plan at home always includes...
A meal with friends, at home or outdoors, surrounded by a lovely table, leisurely laughter and good conversation.
Do you have a signature dish?
Gazpacho! In summer as well as in winter.
Where is your favourite place in your city and abroad?
My favourite place in my city (Barcelona) is Collserola. I am in love with this natural paradise on the doorstep of the city. Whenever I can, I head out on my bike and lose myself among its paths. It gives me peace, perspective and a disconnection that recharges me from within. It is my refuge, my way of reconnecting with myself and with the serene rhythm of nature.
Abroad, Greece! I prefer to get lost and switch off on its wild, secluded beaches rather than walk through crowded city streets.
Anything you want to tell us that we haven't asked you, speak now or forever hold your peace!
If I am not designing or out on a bike in Collserola, you will probably find me near the sea. It recharges me, inspires me and reminds me that, just like in interior design, the important thing is to find balance and let things flow.
And yes... I confess I can spend hours choosing a shade of white. Interior designer quirks!
Where can we follow your work?
On my website: olgagilvernet.com
Or on my Instagram:@olgagilvernet
