Rocío Esquilas: ‘Compositions created with textiles go to making 90% of an interior design’

We speak with interior designer Rocío Esquilas from the Roma&Ro studio, where she works alongside her partner Carlos Roma. Rocío also runs the Meu Canto blog and tells us that ‘textiles should always have a presence’ in interior design projects. With regard to current trends, she explains green and yellow textiles are having a moment, as well as hand-painted wall murals and black and white geometric prints.

How did Roma&Ro start out?

We were both working at different studios and got our first client through an acquaintance. We decided to go for it and start out on this great adventure together.

Which project would you highlight from all those you have done so far?

An old horse carriage stable right in the heart of Chueca, Madrid, which we converted into an apartment. It was an exceptional challenge and ended up being a fun project.

What does good interior design mean to you?

One that impacts you visually, diffuses calm and has good lighting, where you see it and exclaim ‘I want this in my home’. A design that makes you feel so at home, you never want to leave.

Which style is most identified with your work?

I’d say we have a bit of a mix. I think I’m more new-look classic, using more muted materials, hues and textures. Charlie is more eclectic and daring. He’s not afraid to mix colours, shapes, prints… like he says, ‘give each room a touch of rock & roll’. Our projects take a bit from both worlds and always complement one another.

What are the current trends in interior design?

People today have a lot of information about décor, design and styles. Whilst it’s true that there are lots of possibilities, the trends are set every year at the Paris and Milan fairs (in our opinion)—the two we never miss. What we see there is set in stone 😉

More specifically, current trends include green and yellow textiles; hand-painted wall murals; black and white geometric prints, and artwork and sculptures for all areas of the home.

What place do textiles have when designing a project?

Textiles should always have a presence in interior design projects: sofa upholstery, playing with textures on the back of an armchair, rugs, curtains, blinds… compositions created through textiles go to making 90% of interiors.

What features should a textile have for your work? How do you use them?

We love playing with textiles and also adapt to the type our clients want. A neutral base such as cotton for sofa and armchair upholstery that is comfortable, practical and beautiful. We always use floor-length linen for curtains and blinds to enhance the naturalness of the material itself.

In terms of more decorative touches such as cushions, lampshades, throws, rugs, etc. we are more ‘hardcore’ and if our client lets us, we like to mix prints, colours, geometric shapes… all to add personality to a room.

  • Do you have any challenges for the future?

There are always new challenges and projects. With this in mind, I’d like to continue learning and expanding gradually to make them a reality.