Ana Moreno | Timeless Luxury, Architectural Refinement, Global Design Perspective

Alacasa Design Studio LLC is sought after for its ability to deliver bespoke, white-glove service, transforming homes into layered, functional, and deeply personal environments. Drawing from her heritage, international training, and a philosophy centered on balance, function, and emotional energy in design, we asked Ana Moreno about the inspirations behind her work, her approach to luxury interiors, and the principles that guide Alacasa Design Studio.

ORIGIN & INSPIRATION

Where are you from?
I am from Quito Ecuador – the 2nd highest city in South America.

Has your cultural background or personal upbringing influenced your design approach?
Most definitely.

How did you get started in design?
I have been drawing ever since I learned how to cold a pencil and brush.

What first sparked your love of design—was it a person, a place, or a moment?
My Father was a pilot and used to build as a hobby on weekends. Seeing how he could implement the lifestyle and quality of life for other people was very inspiring.

If you weren’t an interior designer, what would you be doing instead?
Landscape design.

Do you have a design mentor or idol?
Zaha Hadid and my college instructor Youssef Bahri.

What’s one project or accomplishment you’re especially proud of?
200 Central Park South, New York.

SIGNATURE STYLE & PHILOSOPHY

How would you describe your signature style in three words?
Dynamic, peaceful and balanced.

What’s the one design rule you always follow?
Vectors with an axis in mind and continuity.

And equally, what’s one design “rule” you love to break?
I am not a rule breaker. LOL

How do you make a home feel both beautiful and livable?
By making the home represent the client’s character and lifestyle choice.

What color or material are you obsessed with right now?
Cranberry… I don’t know why.

What’s your favorite room in a home to transform, and why?
The Primary Bath – it’s a place where you start and finish your day.

If budget weren’t a factor, what is the one room or piece you like to splurge on?

Summer [outdoor] kitchen.

If your design aesthetic were a car, what would it be?
White Bentley with black leather interior.

What is one lesson you learned from a difficult project?
Everything is possible to create with the right collaborators.

DESIGN ADVICE FOR HOMEOWNERS

What’s one small change anyone can make that has the biggest impact?
Have a functional kitchen and utility area.

Where should homeowners splurge—and where can they save?
Splurge: Outdoors and Kitchen
Save: Garage.

What’s a timeless element you always recommend, no matter the trend?
A great kitchen faucet.

What’s your go-to trick for making a small room feel larger?
Painting walls and ceilings the same color.

What’s one thing every homeowner should do before starting a project?
Job costing and analysis.

RAPID-FIRE ROUND

Favorite city or destination for design inspiration?
Akumal Bay, Mexico.

Dream client or celebrity home you’d love to design?
Jimmy Fallon.

Favorite paint color to use right now?
Shoji White and Cranberry red.

Favorite flooring choice (wood, tile, stone, marble, etc.)?
White Rift Oak – Breccia Stone.

One material you’re obsessed with lately (stone, brass, wallpaper, linen…)?
Textured Tiles.

Most underrated room in a house?
A/V Closet.

Most overused design trend?
Slat walls.

First thing you notice when you walk into a room?
Energy

One piece in your own home that makes you happiest right now?
Lanai.

Favorite design era or decade?
1950’s.

One thing you can’t live without in a space?
A handsome coffee table.

One tool or app you can’t live without?
Pinterest.

Coffee, wine, champagne, or tequila when in design mode?
Juniper Gin!

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