Pedro Peña, The Soul and Origin of Luxury Interior Design in Marbella

Javier Nieto revisits the story, the ideas, and the humanity of one of Spain’s great design masters in an intimate and personal interview.

Pedro Peña’s journey began over fifty years ago, when he left his hometown of Jaén, drawn by the Mediterranean light and the promise of a golden Marbella that was just beginning to bloom. Today, his name is synonymous with excellence, style, and sensitivity in the world of interior design.

From his iconic showroom in Marbella — a reference for anyone seeking to understand the true meaning of luxury — Pedro has brought his vision and unique style to homes across the globe. But behind this esteemed professional lies a generous and approachable man, gifted with exceptional creative intuition.

In this close and personal conversation with Javier Nieto, CEO of Pure Living Properties, we discover the life, thoughts, and human side of one of Spain’s greatest design figures.

Pedro Peña and Marbella’s Golden Years

Tell us, Pedro, how did you first come to Marbella? What brought you to this beautiful city?
I’m from Jaén, and in the late 1960s, while I was studying architecture in Madrid, I met Manuel Navarro at my student residence. At the time, he was the owner of FIAT, and he convinced me to come spend a summer in Marbella. I loved what I found here so much that I stayed until January — my father had to come and fetch me because the academic term had already begun.

It was a wonderful time. I’ve always loved art, and while I was studying in Madrid, I painted as a hobby. When I returned from Madrid, I became part of a very influential artistic circle of the time. Upon moving back to Marbella, I received commissions from several architects who asked me for advice and collaboration on creative projects like tables, mirrors and furnishings — and that was the seed of my career as a decorator.

So, you started out painting and ended up designing interiors. How did that transition happen?
My first real project grew out of my painting. I began designing wicker furniture, and by chance, I went to the Valencia Fair, where I met Begoña Zunzunegui, founder of Becara. Together, we created Grupo 13, a collective of creatives showcasing unique pieces throughout the fair. Back then, the fair was very traditional and lacked character — and we had something different. That’s also where I met Antje Sievert-Meyer, Melvin Villarroel’s wife, who suggested I meet Melvin. That’s how our connection began.

Melvin Villarroel, another key figure of Marbella’s golden era. What was your relationship like with him during that important time for the city?
To me, Melvin was a true master. He was an architect, but also a philosopher.

With him, I designed the interiors of the most refined part of Puente Romano, commissioned by its new owner, the Al Madani family, who bought it to convert into a hotel. They were thrilled with the result and asked us to design their home in Cannes — “El Observatorio.” After that, they also asked us to design one of the floors in their office building on Avenue Foch in Paris. Each floor had a different interior designer, including Alberto Pinto. Later we worked on their home in Manchester and other projects with the family. That was my first opportunity to understand luxury in a completely new way.

If anyone truly understands the meaning of the word luxury, it’s Pedro Peña. How would you define it?
First, I’d say luxury has two key components: space and quality. If the space is well designed, harmony flows naturally. It’s not about size, but rather how naturally a space allows you to live comfortably. For me, true luxury is space. I always say I don’t create homes for myself — I design them for my clients. That’s why I try to get to know them a little beforehand, so I can create something that truly suits them.

The Evolution of Interior Design

Taking all this into account, how do you think the market and the client profile in Marbella have evolved since you arrived?
Marbella used to be filled with Spaniards. For many years now, it’s become an international destination. Luxury was more understated back then. Today, there’s more money, more companies, younger people. Society is more diverse. Lifestyles have changed too. Parties, for example, used to be more private, more intimate — and that influences how homes are designed today.

Javier Nieto, CEO of Pure Living Properties, and Pedro Peña.

That’s certainly a big shift. When do you think interior designers started getting involved from the beginning of the project?
At the beginning, we weren’t involved at all. The architect would build the house, and we’d come in later to decorate. Today, both developers and clients want us involved from the start. We design everything — from furniture to bathrooms. In the past, a house could be completed more quickly. Now, everything is much more technical, more detailed. The execution time has doubled.

Considering that transformation, how important is technology in today’s interior design?
Technology now plays a key role. We used to present projects using paper, fabrics, and sketches. Today, everything is done in 3D. What you show in the studio is exactly what the client will receive. There’s no margin for error — but it also means much more work. Nowadays, we depend on 3D for everything. It has completely changed how we work. That said, I do miss the time when everything was more hands-on and artisanal.

The New Pedro Peña Interior Design Showroom

With such a long and intense career as yours, is there a particular project you remember fondly?
Every project has its own story, but I have a special place in my heart for the creation of this store. We started in a small space, with hardly any resources. I gradually expanded it, convinced the owner to sell me the whole building, and today we have a showroom that, to me, truly represents what I love.

Pedro, we’ve spoken about the past — but looking ahead, how do you see the future of your company?
Today, it’s my eldest son, Felipe Peña, who’s the managing director, and I’ve taken on an advisory role for strategic matters. They sometimes call me the “hidden CEO,” but I can’t oversee everything anymore. What matters is that the legacy continues — and Felipe is improving it. I’m incredibly proud that he’s grown up with the company and taken it forward.

And finally, if you had to choose just one thing — what do you value or admire most about Marbella?
Without a doubt, I’d say the climate and the quality of life. Marbella also has excellent restaurants, great energy… I don’t go out much at night anymore, but I still love going out for lunch. Marbella is my city. I wasn’t born here, but I’ve lived here for over 50 years. I feel like I’m from Marbella — and this is where I’ll stay.

You can watch the full interview with Pedro Peña on the Pure Living Properties YouTube channel.

Looking for a home designed by Pedro Peña Interior Design? Get in touch with the Pure Living Properties sales team today.