Life & Work with Catia Sander of Santa Monica

Today we’d like to introduce you to Catia Sander

Hi Catia, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I am an Architectural and Interior Designer born and raised in Brazil, currently based in Los Angeles.

With a degree in Architecture and Urban Planning from Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos, Brazil, and over 25 years of global project experience, my journey in design has been rich and diverse.

After relocating to LA and studying at UCLA’s under the Interior Design program, I was fortunate to begin my career through an internship that quickly evolved into a full-time role with a respected local firm. Working alongside renowned Architects and Interior Designers provided invaluable experience before I established my own studio in Santa Monica.

My extensive portfolio includes condos, villas, hotels, bars, restaurants, offices, and high-end residences, and I take pride in crafting spaces that reflect my clients’ true essence with creativity and authenticity.

Inspiration for my designs comes from music, travel, culinary experiences, and the stories of people I meet along the way.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As an immigrant in Los Angeles, I bring a unique perspective and a rich cultural background to my craft. My journey from Brazil to the United States likely involved numerous challenges, from navigating a new language and culture to establishing myself in a competitive industry. Despite these obstacles, my determination and passion for design have propelled me forward.

Starting a life in a new country often means facing a myriad of struggles, both personal and professional. As a Brazilian immigrant, overcoming language barriers has been both a daunting challenge and a rewarding journey. Arriving in a new country where Portuguese is not widely spoken meant starting from scratch with a new language. Through persistence and dedication, I immersed myself in language classes, practiced daily conversations with locals, and embraced every opportunity to improve my skills. Gradually, I began to understand and communicate effectively in the new language, gaining confidence with each conversation. Overcoming these barriers has not only helped me navigate daily life with greater ease but has also allowed me to connect more deeply with the local community, forging friendships and opportunities that enrich my immigrant experience. Language has truly been the bridge that has enabled me to build a new life in a foreign land.

Besides the challenges and struggles, my foreign experience grants me a valuable advantage in the design world. My unique perspective and diverse background allows me to infuse my designs with richness and depth, drawing inspiration from both my Brazilian roots and my newfound home in Los Angeles.

My journey serves as a testament to resilience and adaptability, showcasing the transformative power of pursuing one’s passion in the face of adversity. Through my work, I not only create beautiful spaces but also bridge cultural divides, fostering connections and understanding in a diverse and dynamic city like Los Angeles.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
With over 25 years of experience in both luxury residential and boutique commercial projects, my career has been defined by a passion for creating exceptional living and working spaces. Throughout my journey, I have cultivated a deep understanding of design principles, construction techniques, and client needs, enabling me to deliver projects that exceed expectations.

Specializing in restaurant design for over 20 years has been a journey filled with creativity, challenges, and rewarding experiences. Each project has presented a unique opportunity to blend my passion for design with the dynamic world of culinary arts, creating immersive dining experiences that engage all the senses.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with visionary chefs and restaurateurs, each with their own distinct culinary vision and aesthetic sensibility. From intimate bistros to bustling eateries and upscale fine dining establishments, each space presented its own set of design challenges and opportunities. Whether it was transforming a historic building into a modern gastropub or conceptualizing a sleek, minimalist space for a contemporary fusion restaurant, every project required a balance of innovation, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.

Creativity in interior design is often sparked by a multitude of influences, ranging from the sights and sounds of travel to the flavors and aromas of diverse cuisines. As an interior designer who draws inspiration from these sources, my creative process becomes a vibrant tapestry woven from the experiences of exploration and connection.

Travel serves as a cornerstone of my creative journey, offering a wealth of inspiration in the form of architectural marvels, cultural landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether wandering through bustling markets in Paris or strolling along the tranquil shores of the Greek Islands, each destination leaves an indelible imprint on my design sensibilities, infusing my work with a sense of wanderlust and adventure.

Food also plays a pivotal role in shaping my creative vision, with each culinary encounter serving as a sensory exploration of taste, texture, and color. From the vibrant hues of a Moroccan spice market to the delicate symmetry of a Japanese bento box, the culinary arts provide a rich palette of inspiration that finds expression in my interior designs, from bold color schemes to innovative spatial layouts.

People are another wellspring of creativity, with their stories, traditions, and perspectives shaping the fabric of my design narrative. Whether collaborating with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds or drawing inspiration from the vibrant tapestry of humanity, my designs reflect a deep appreciation for the human experience, celebrating diversity and fostering connection through shared spaces that resonate with authenticity and warmth.

Music adds another dimension to my creative process, with its rhythms and melodies evoking a range of emotions and moods that find expression in my design choices. From the soulful strains of jazz to the pulsating beats of electronic dance music, each genre offers a unique lens through which to interpret space, texture, and atmosphere, transforming interiors into immersive environments that engage the senses and elevate the spirit.

Incorporating these diverse influences into my interior designs, I create spaces that transcend mere functionality, becoming immersive expressions of culture, creativity, and connection. Each project becomes a journey of discovery and transformation, guided by the belief that great design has the power to inspire, uplift, and enrich the lives of those who inhabit it.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Collaboration lies at the heart of successful design projects, and working alongside architects and artists has been an enriching and essential part of my design journey.

Teaming up with architects brings a fusion of creativity and technical expertise to the table. Together, we navigate the complexities of space, structure, and functionality, ensuring that our designs not only dazzle aesthetically but also function seamlessly within the built environment. Whether it’s brainstorming innovative spatial layouts, coordinating building materials, or addressing structural challenges, the synergy between architecture and interior design lays the foundation for cohesive and harmonious spaces that delight the senses and elevate the human experience.

Partnering with artists adds another layer of depth and dimension to my design projects. From captivating murals and striking sculptures to bespoke furnishings and custom installations, collaborating with artists infuses spaces with a sense of individuality and artistic expression. These collaborations not only enhance the visual impact of our designs but also contribute to a rich tapestry of storytelling and cultural significance, creating immersive environments that resonate with authenticity and emotion.

At the heart of these collaborations lies a shared commitment to excellence and a passion for elevating the human experience through thoughtful and innovative design. By harnessing the collective talents and perspectives of architects, artists and designers, we create spaces that transcend mere functionality, becoming immersive expressions of culture, creativity, and connection. Together, we transform visions into realities, forging lasting impressions and enriching the lives of those who inhabit and experience our designs.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.catiasander.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catiasanderdesign/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/catiasanderdesign

Image Credits
Isaac Gracia – Taco Social picture with orange stools
All other pictures are my own