Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiago Raimundo.
Hi Tiago, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m Tiago Raimundo, Art Director, Interior Designer, and co-founder of the studio Rebel Rebel Design. From an early age, I developed a fascination with how environments influence our well-being, greatly inspired by my father, who, in his time, designed our homes with groundbreaking ideas, using shapes that were rarely seen back then, alternative colors, and innovative compositions.
What inspired me the most was realizing the impact a well-thought-out space can have on people’s lives and behavior. I’ve always been very observant and started noticing how environments could change someone’s mood.
I come from a family that owns shipyards, and since I was a child, I grew up seeing how everything was designed and sculpted inside a boat, in addition to the entire exterior design, which is not only aesthetic but also functional. This early exposure naturally led me to pursue a degree in engineering. However, it was through working with superyachts that I truly developed a deeper appreciation for design excellence. These vessels introduced me to a world where luxury is defined by subtlety, and where the choice of materials and the harmony of form and function elevate engineering to an art.
As a passionate surfer and lover of the sea, I traveled to various countries where I was greatly inspired by shapes, materials, colors, and construction methods. I stayed in many places and different hotels, accumulating various experiences as a guest, which later served as training for me to work in the hospitality world.
Being so young, I felt that my path was just beginning, so I combined all these disciplines and began my journey in the world of interior design for Hospitality, where the balance between aesthetics, operation, and functionality is key.
Today, I enjoy my days transforming hospitality spaces into projects with soul and unique identity.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As an interior designer, I’ve encountered a wide range of challenges throughout my career — each one serving as an opportunity for growth, reflection, and evolution. One of the most significant has undoubtedly been managing expectations. Aligning a client’s vision with budget constraints, spatial limitations, or even regional market realities is rarely straightforward. Every project brings its own set of nuances, and I’ve learned that clear, honest communication from the outset is key. My focus has always been on offering creative, feasible solutions that honor the original concept without compromising on quality.
Another early challenge was earning credibility in a highly competitive industry. Building a solid reputation takes time, perseverance, and genuine passion for the craft. I committed to continuous learning, took on pro bono work to gain experience, and concentrated on cultivating trust — both with clients and collaborators. Over time, this foundation became one of my most valuable assets.
Of course, no project is without its unexpected hurdles — from on-site complications to delays, sudden changes, or unreliable suppliers. In these situations, adaptability and structured planning are essential. I’ve learned to always have contingency plans in place — sometimes even beyond plan B — to ensure a smooth delivery, regardless of what comes up.
Ultimately, each challenge has strengthened not only my technical expertise, but also my empathy, flexibility, and resilience.
What continues to drive me is the process of turning abstract ideas into tangible spaces — bringing concepts to life and creating environments that connect with people on a deeper level. That, to me, is the true reward of design.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My work is defined by a meticulous attention to detail, a deep commitment to listening to the client’s vision, and a constant pursuit of balance between functionality and aesthetics. At Rebel Rebel Design Studio, nothing is left to chance — every element is carefully considered, because we believe that each detail plays a role in shaping the overall experience of a space.
Throughout my career, I’ve worked across residential, commercial, and space rehabilitation projects, always with the same goal: to create environments that tell a story — spaces that are not only visually compelling, but that genuinely reflect the identity and lifestyle of the people who inhabit them.
Rather than adhering to a rigid or predefined style, I approach each project as a unique narrative. I believe that great design should be personal and purposeful, tailored to the client’s needs, the function of the space, and its cultural or architectural context.
My aesthetic is often inspired by contemporary lines, with modern influences that lean into simplicity and timeless elegance. I’m particularly drawn to natural materials — wood, stone, raw textiles — which bring warmth, texture, and authenticity. I enjoy creating contrasts, blending clean, modern elements with vintage finds or artisanal pieces, resulting in spaces that feel layered, lived-in, and full of character.
Ultimately, my aim is to design places that are not only beautiful and functional, but also emotionally resonant — spaces people remember, and feel deeply connected to.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Four years ago, I met my couple, Eme Carranza — a talented designer from Argentina. We met through work, and from the very beginning, our connection was both creative and personal. One project led to the next, and before long, we were not only building a shared vision, but a shared life.
Three years ago, we co-founded Rebel Rebel Design, a design studio born from the fusion of two distinct yet complementary creative perspectives. More than just a collaborative practice, Rebel Rebel Design is a platform where our individual strengths come together to create bold, globally inspired design.
Although our foundation lies in hospitality, we’ve since expanded into new and exciting areas — including real estate and residential projects that push us to reimagine how people experience space on a day-to-day basis.
And we’re not stopping there. We’re currently working on something very close to our hearts: our own furniture line, designed with the same principles that guide all our work — authenticity, functionality, and a strong sense of identity. Coming soon.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rebelrebel.design
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiagoraimundo30/
- Other: [email protected]
Image Credits
Laura Macias
@lamacias_
