Ismael Mérida: “I never dreamed of becoming an architect, but architecture became my life”
Carmen Duran - May 21, 2025 - Pure Living News
Renowned architect Ismael Mérida shares his beginnings in the world of architecture and the evolution of the sector in a relaxed and personal interview with Javier Nieto, CEO of Pure Living Properties.
An architect by unexpected calling and a restless soul, Ismael Mérida has, over nearly three decades, designed some of the most renowned villas in the high-end residential scene of the Golden Triangle. From his studio in Marbella, he has understood, perhaps better than anyone, the needs of an increasingly global and demanding client—without losing sight of his roots, Mediterranean culture, and the value of authenticity.
We sat down for an open conversation—as we have so many times before—about the past, present and future of Marbella, architecture, construction and, above all, the passion that drives everything he does. A conversation full of emotion, politically incorrect and unfiltered, about what it really means to create homes—not just design spaces.
Unexpected calling and unstoppable passion
Ismael Mérida is one of the most renowned architects in Marbella, but for those who don’t know you so well, how did your journey as an architect begin? Did you always know this was your path?
Not at all. I had no calling. I studied humanities and wasn’t particularly good at drawing. It was my mother who gave me a piece of advice that changed everything: “Find something where you don’t have a boss.”
By a series of coincidences, I ended up in architecture. And here I am, nearly thirty years later. Today, everything in my life revolves around something I never planned. I can’t work without a pencil. It’s always with me. It’s as if drawing has become my way of communicating.
Over the years, you’ve witnessed the shift from a more handcrafted approach to one dominated by 3D, renders, and now even artificial intelligence. How have you experienced this change?
New generations are more intuitive with digital tools, and that’s a good thing. Today’s renders are spectacular, and they convey a lot of information. But they’ve also opened the door to a worrying phenomenon: technology, when used well, is wonderful, but when misunderstood, it can lead to mediocrity.
Now we see very simple projects that, thanks to a good digital presentation, appear extraordinary… when they’re not. True architecture requires a creative, deep, emotional process. Copying and pasting is not creating. And honestly, there’s an excess of projects that are limited to that. Technology should enrich, not replace, thought.
Some architects impose their style, and others adapt to the tastes and style of the client. Where would you place yourself, Ismael Mérida?
The truth is, I like listening. My best projects have come from dialogue with clients who had clear ideas. Sometimes they suggest aesthetic languages that aren’t mine, but that also interests me. It pushes me to explore. That said, when I see they’re lost, I do try to lead the way. I don’t have a single style. I adapt, but I always try to add value through architecture.
True luxury, according to Ismael Mérida
In Marbella we talk a lot about luxury, but you seem to understand it in a very specific way. What does the word luxury mean to you?
For me, luxury is harmony. There may be very little, but if it’s well thought out, well proportioned, if it conveys peace… that’s luxury. It’s something you feel. It’s not the most expensive marble or the most exclusive sofa—it’s how the space embraces you. That everything is in its place, that there’s intention behind it. That’s what gives character.
You’ve worked on large developments and also on unique residential projects. Where do you feel most comfortable?
There was a time when I was fascinated by developments. It was a challenge, a display of architectural muscle. But today, without a doubt, I enjoy villas more. They allow me to be involved in every detail, to take care of the layout, materials, and light. In developments, the budget sometimes strips away layers, ideas. With villas, I can truly develop creativity.
How has the premium housing client evolved in recent years?
In the past, houses were built to be lived in. Today, many developers create a product to sell. And the final client, although much more informed—thanks to social media—no longer wants to be involved in the whole process. They want results, not the journey. And that forces you to offer well-thought-out, functional, aesthetic solutions adapted to today’s lifestyle. Because whoever is buying, expects the best without having to build it themselves.
Marbella through the eyes of Ismael Mérida
How do you currently see Marbella compared to other international destinations?
In terms of design, Marbella has nothing to envy from Miami, the Côte d’Azur or Ibiza. I say that with conviction. The level is very high. But in execution, we still have room for improvement. We’re lacking qualified tradespeople, the old “handymen” who worked magic with the details. Today there’s less craftsmanship. And that can cause us to lose quality. If we want to compete with the best, we must pay more attention to finishing.
Do you think Marbella could be losing its essence?
Well, I’d say partly yes. The arrival of international funds and the eagerness to attract a global audience has led to many developments being designed in a neutral, international style. And the risk is that Marbella becomes unrecognisable. We can evolve, blend styles, but not lose our roots. The Andalusian courtyard, Mediterranean proportions, traditional materials… that can’t disappear. It’s what makes us unique.
The power of the environment as inspiration
You’ve worked in Marbella, Ibiza, and abroad… Does the environment inspire you?
Always. I don’t design the same way in Ibiza as I do here. Ibiza brings a freer, more organic energy. If you’re open, every place influences you. Even if you have a very clear idea, travelling, breathing in another atmosphere, noticing different details… all of that leaves its mark. That fusion between idea and the inspiration of the place is what makes a project unique. What gives it soul.
Emotion as the driving force of architecture
To finish, after so many years, what keeps you motivated in your day-to-day life as an architect?
Passion. Without passion, I wouldn’t last. This profession is wonderful, but also demanding. Bureaucracy, changes, pressure… you can only cope with that if there’s emotion. When I interview someone for the studio, the first thing I look for is not their CV—it’s their ability to get excited about a project. Without that, there is no architecture. No team. No enjoyment.
Looking for a property designed by Ismael Mérida?
Contact the Pure Living Properties sales department today and find your next home by Ismael Mérida.
