Name : Martin Palleros
Company : Tierra Design (Thailand) Ltd
Position within company : Director
Website : Tierra Design
. Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I have an architectural degree from Universidad de Belgrano, Buenos Aires, Argentina and a masters degree in Landscape Architecture from Florida International University, Miami US.
I was the founder and principal of Tierra Design Singapore; after leaving Singapore in 1997, I founded Tierra Design Australia and Tierra Design Thailand.
Most of our work are focusing on resorts, hotels, residential and wellness resorts.
. How would you describe your personal design style?
I think our style comes from our aspirations.
We want to design spaces that evoke heightened experiences and are welcoming. Materials speak care. We aim for delight; shimmering and mirrored water elements dance among trees and grounded landscapes. Distilled palettes offer a calming relief to the often busy and noisy surroundings. Often our designs reflect simple solutions to the practical issues of the site and client.
. Where does your design inspiration come from?
The Mexican Architect and Landscape architect Luis Barragan understood that ‘it is essential to an architect to know how to see: I mean, to see in such a way that the vision is not overpowered by rational analysis.’
Wherever I go, I keep trying to see what is around me and what people cherish.
. In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I think in some way there is a continuing reaction to globalisation and the need to creatively express the cultural and environmental expectations for each particular place.
. Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2017 and beyond.
1. Vision. The future matters
2. Process. Good design is not instant.
3. Ensemble. Architecture and landscape go together.
4. Materiality. An antidote to the ephemeral of the digital world.
5. Project collaboration. Space is needed to include the amazing spectrum of creative that is around us.
. If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design, what would it be?
Design involves not knowing where you will end up. It’s an experience to embrace and confidently arrive at new places.
. How important are The International Hotel and Property Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
I think the award process and recognition are very significant for design practices. When we start with our clients, our relationship often begins with varied conversations of hope and projects of the past. It’s a long journey of trust and effort until the project’s realisation. The awards are a great recognition and validation of the trust that our clients have given us.
. What projects are you currently working on?
Hyatt Regency resort, Bali
Andaz resort, Bali
Boutique Hotel in Bangkok old district
Twinpalms Montazure residences at Kamala beach, Phuket
Mai Kao beach integrated resort, Phuket
Catch beach Club, Phuket
Private residence, Koh Yai Noi
. What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
To try to contribute to the environment and the community in the best possible way. Create spaces for people to enjoy through the projects we design. As always try to keep the conscience of the work quality and client satisfaction by paying attention to the project details and client needs. Self improvement, keep open minded to new technologies and designs.
. Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession?
My BMW motorbike
Your favourite holiday destination?
South Patagonia, between mountains and lakes
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
Twinpalms, Palmseaside, Catch, all in Phuket
Your favourite book / film / song?
Martin Fierro, 2001 A Space Odyssey, Imagine John Lennon
Your favourite food and drink?
Asado criollo the true Argentinian way with a good Malbec
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
After finishing a busy day I like meeting with friends over a nice glass of red wine to socialise.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
Jobless. It is hard for me to see myself doing anything else.
