Marbella’s transformation from a quiet mid-century fishing village to a glamorous haven for the global elite belies its rich and ancient heritage. Dating back to 770 BC and once an important Roman outpost, the town carries layers of cultural evolution. Marbella’s architectural identity is a dynamic tapestry – Moorish elegance, Mediterranean palettes and Renaissance elements – all set against the raw beauty of Andalucia’s natural landscape.
In this journal, we explore Marbella’s visual tone and spatial rhythm through the eyes of our designers on location for an international commission. While the project remains confidential, our passion for creating meaningful, context-driven design is anything but.
Great design begins with a sense of place. A location study is a visual exploration with a deep emotional and architectural reading of Marbella – it’s contrasts, light and layers Marbella’s built environment is a mosaic of eras and influences, where history and modernity coexist.
The rise of Marbella’s growth in the 1990s brought with it a wave of classic Mediterranean architecture – with ornate detailing, sweeping archways, terracotta-tiled roofs and sun-washed facades in hues of ochre and coral. These elements remain deeply embedded in the region’s aesthetic DNA, celebrating openness, airiness and light.
The 80’s ushered in a new era of investment and cultural interplay, particularly through the arrival of Arab sheiks who helped shape Marbella’s luxury landscape. Their legacy can be seen in the region’s Moorish touches; labyrinthine alleys, white-washed buildings and charming courtyards adorned with foundations and vibrant flowers.
With the growth of international tourism, Marbella’s urban character expanded. Nowhere is more evident than along the Golden Mile and Puerto Banus. Home to luxury resorts, private villas and design-led developments catering to a discerning clientele. Modern interventions echo the town’s evolving identity, balancing heritage with high-end innovation.
