Maia Alejandro is a curator and editor of blog Estilo, where she inspires her readers with stylish home and interior advice from New York City. Maia is an interior stylist with a strong belief that design can dramatically change a person’s life, so uses her background in social work and wellness to create refreshing spaces. She crafts uplifting interiors that continue to inspire with stylish solutions for the design obsessed. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Maia Alejandro.
Image Credit: 1-5) Maia Alejandro
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
I like to describe my style as “urban chic”. It is a blend of sophisticated minimalist decor, clean lines and natural materials, with pops of urban influences, such as street art.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
I love learning about my client’s life and what they hold dear. I then set out to incorporate those special mementos & experiences creatively into their space. I enjoy finding new ways of surprising my clients with those extra personal touches in their home.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
Before becoming an interior stylist, I was a social worker in New York City. I ran an art therapy group and was fortunate enough to have been exposed to the incredible power of photography in the lives of the youth I worked with. I continue to be inspired by the courage and honesty in their creative works today.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
I usually start out searching on social media, and then move on to a list I have created of all of my favorite fashion, design, and photography websites and blogs. I also love searching through my travel photos when in need of inspiration. Traveling has been life changing for me and I find something new every time I look through these photos.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
Interior styling has been a 2nd career for me, and it’s been a journey! After traveling for some time I realized that my 10+ year career was not my passion, so I put everything into going back to school and starting my own business. I would say that knowing and following your true passions is always the most important thing. If you are passionate about your goals, people will want to help you get there.
