People Profile: Rocío del Río on designing Interiors with empathy, craft, and character

Rocío del Río joined Chapman Taylor in 2012, bringing a wealth of experience across a wide range of interior design projects. Her pragmatic and thoughtful design approach has led to the successful delivery of several celebrated schemes.

As a Senior Interior Designer and Head of Interiors at Chapman Taylor’s Madrid studio, Rocío is responsible for ensuring design quality and overseeing the delivery of all interior design projects. With a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding of materiality, her work blends innovation, cultural sensitivity, and aesthetic clarity. Her portfolio spans diverse styles, themes, and sectors—from sleek, contemporary designs to projects rooted in tradition and local context.

In this People Profile, Rocío reflects on her design philosophy, which places people at the centre of every decision, with a focus on comfort, authenticity, and emotional connection.

Can you tell us a bit about your early life and career?

I was born and raised in Madrid—a vibrant, multicultural city that has deeply influenced who I am. Growing up surrounded by its rich history, diverse communities, and creative energy inspired me both personally and professionally.

From an early age, I was captivated by interior spaces—the way light danced through a room, the textures of surfaces, and the emotions that different colours could evoke. I was always rearranging my bedroom, finding joy in how small changes could completely transform a space.

My grandfather, a skilled carpenter, was a huge influence. Watching him build furniture with such care and artistry sparked my fascination with craft and detail. While I initially considered studying architecture, I soon realised I was more drawn to the emotional impact of interiors—the way spaces make people feel, connect, and live. Interior design felt more personal and human, allowing me to focus on the subtleties that shape our everyday experiences.

Rocío del Río has been with Chapman Taylor for 14 years, bringing a wealth of experience across a wide range of interior design projects. Her pragmatic and thoughtful design approach has led to the successful delivery of several celebrated schemes.

As a Senior Interior Designer and Head of Interiors at Chapman Taylor’s Madrid studio, Rocío is responsible for ensuring design quality and overseeing the delivery of all interior design projects. With a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding of materiality, her work blends innovation, cultural sensitivity, and aesthetic clarity. Her portfolio spans diverse styles, themes, and sectors—from sleek, contemporary designs to projects rooted in tradition and local context.

Can you tell us a bit about your early life and career?

I was born and raised in Madrid—a vibrant, multicultural city that has deeply influenced who I am. Growing up surrounded by its rich history, diverse communities, and creative energy inspired me both personally and professionally.

From an early age, I was captivated by interior spaces—the way light danced through a room, the textures of surfaces, and the emotions that different colours could evoke. I was always rearranging my bedroom, finding joy in how small changes could completely transform a space.

My grandfather, a skilled carpenter, was a huge influence. Watching him build furniture with such care and artistry sparked my fascination with craft and detail. While I initially considered studying architecture, I soon realised I was more drawn to the emotional impact of interiors—the way spaces make people feel, connect, and live. Interior design felt more personal and human, allowing me to focus on the subtleties that shape our everyday experiences.

I studied in Madrid, a city that continues to inspire me with its openness, creativity, and cultural richness.

What insights from your early career did you bring to Chapman Taylor?

Before joining Chapman Taylor, I worked at several interior design studios on projects across Spain and internationally. These early experiences were incredibly formative. I developed a strong sensitivity to detail and learned how material choices, textures, and finishes can dramatically affect the mood and function of a space.

Collaborating with professionals across different disciplines taught me the value of open-mindedness, active listening, and shared creativity. Every project and collaboration brought new perspectives and challenges, enriching my design process and reinforcing the importance of teamwork. These lessons have stayed with me and continue to shape how I work today.

What elements of design are particularly important to you?

For me, design always starts with people—their emotions, routines, and the way they live and interact with a space. A well-designed interior should do more than just look beautiful; it should evoke a sense of comfort, connection, and authenticity.

My philosophy is to design spaces that resonate emotionally, creating environments that feel meaningful and intuitive. I see every project as an opportunity to reflect a client's personality and values through thoughtful design.

I also value collaboration—working closely with clients, operators, and brand teams helps ensure every design decision is rooted in real needs and aspirations.

What interesting projects are you currently working on?

At Chapman Taylor, I’ve had the chance to work across all phases of a project—from concept design and technical development to the final selection of furniture and finishes. I collaborate closely with our architecture teams to ensure that every element of a space contributes to a coherent and impactful whole.

One of my first major projects was the Mall of Qatar, which remains a milestone in my career. More recently, I’ve been involved in the refurbishment of several iconic destinations, including Plaza Norte 2, Zenia Boulevard, Lope de Rueda, and Palafox Cinema. These projects are particularly rewarding because they allow us to revitalise and reimagine beloved spaces, breathing new life into them while honouring their identity.

I’ve also contributed to the interior design of a resort by Lake Sioni in Georgia, where the natural surroundings played a key role in shaping the materials, colour palette, and atmosphere of the design.

What’s the future direction for you and Chapman Taylor? What are you excited about?

I’m excited about continuing to grow our interior design offer at Chapman Taylor—expanding into new sectors, exploring fresh ideas, and enhancing the creativity and quality we bring to every project.

I remain passionate about materials, technologies, and design tools that elevate our work. At the same time, I believe that building strong teams and fostering a spirit of collaboration is essential to success.

Chapman Taylor is well-positioned to be recognised for design excellence across all areas, and I see real potential for growth within the interiors sector. For me, interior design is a powerful tool for creating connection, sparking curiosity, and improving quality of life. That’s the journey I’m thrilled to continue.

Collaborating with professionals across different disciplines taught me the value of open-mindedness, active listening, and shared creativity. Every project and collaboration brought new perspectives and challenges, enriching my design process and reinforcing the importance of teamwork. These lessons have stayed with me and continue to shape how I work today.

What elements of design are particularly important to you?

For me, design always starts with people—their emotions, routines, and the way they live and interact with a space. A well-designed interior should do more than just look beautiful; it should evoke a sense of comfort, connection, and authenticity.

My philosophy is to design spaces that resonate emotionally, creating environments that feel meaningful and intuitive. I see every project as an opportunity to reflect a client's personality and values through thoughtful design.

I also value collaboration—working closely with clients, operators, and brand teams helps ensure every design decision is rooted in real needs and aspirations.

What interesting projects are you currently working on?

At Chapman Taylor, I’ve had the chance to work across all phases of a project—from concept design and technical development to the final selection of furniture and finishes. I collaborate closely with our architecture teams to ensure that every element of a space contributes to a coherent and impactful whole.

One of my first major projects was the Mall of Qatar, which remains a milestone in my career. More recently, I’ve been involved in the refurbishment of several iconic destinations, including Plaza Norte 2, Zenia Boulevard, Lope de Rueda, and Palafox Cinema. These projects are particularly rewarding because they allow us to revitalise and reimagine beloved spaces, breathing new life into them while honouring their identity.

I’ve also contributed to the interior design of a resort by Lake Sioni in Georgia, where the natural surroundings played a key role in shaping the materials, colour palette, and atmosphere of the design.

What’s the future direction for you and Chapman Taylor? What are you excited about?

I’m excited about continuing to grow our interior design offer at Chapman Taylor—expanding into new sectors, exploring fresh ideas, and enhancing the creativity and quality we bring to every project.

I remain passionate about materials, technologies, and design tools that elevate our work. At the same time, I believe that building strong teams and fostering a spirit of collaboration is essential to success.

Chapman Taylor is well-positioned to be recognised for design excellence across all areas, and I see real potential for growth within the interiors sector. For me, interior design is a powerful tool for creating connection, sparking curiosity, and improving quality of life. That’s the journey I’m thrilled to continue.

My philosophy is to design spaces that resonate emotionally, creating environments that feel meaningful and intuitive. I see every project as an opportunity to reflect a client's personality and values through thoughtful design.

I also value collaboration—working closely with clients, operators, and brand teams helps ensure every design decision is rooted in real needs and aspirations.

What interesting projects are you currently working on?

At Chapman Taylor, I’ve had the chance to work across all phases of a project—from concept design and technical development to the final selection of furniture and finishes. I collaborate closely with our architecture teams to ensure that every element of a space contributes to a coherent and impactful whole.

One of my first major projects was the Mall of Qatar, which remains a milestone in my career. More recently, I’ve been involved in the refurbishment of several iconic destinations, including Plaza Norte 2, Tres Aguas, Los Cubos, and Sioni Lake Resort. These projects are particularly rewarding because they allow us to revitalise and reimagine beloved spaces, breathing new life into them while honouring their identity.

What’s the future direction for you and Chapman Taylor? What are you excited about?

I’m excited about continuing to grow our interior design offer at Chapman Taylor, expanding into new sectors, exploring fresh ideas, and enhancing the creativity and quality we bring to every project.

I remain passionate about materials, technologies, and design tools that elevate our work. At the same time, I believe that building strong teams and fostering a spirit of collaboration is essential to success.

Chapman Taylor is well-positioned to be recognised for design excellence across all areas, and I see real potential for growth within the interiors sector. For me, interior design is a powerful tool for creating connection, sparking curiosity, and improving quality of life. That’s the journey I’m thrilled to continue.