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INÉS YBARRA, CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER OF HER INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM, CASAHARI, HAS OVER 17 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN DESIGN, FROM FASHION AND PHOTOGRAPHY TO FURNITURE. BORN IN MADRID, HER CAREER IS DEFINED BY A COMBINATION OF CREATIVITY, AESTHETICS, AND FUNCTIONALITY, WITH A CLEAR PHILOSOPHY: ‘LESS IS MORE’.
When did you know that interior design was your professional path?
I used to buy architecture books or books about furniture designers—but never interior design. Only this year did I start collecting some.
I’ve always loved furniture design and architecture, but since I hadn’t studied them academically, I was afraid to dive in. I suppose I had impostor syndrome. It was launching myself and working hand in hand with artisans that has gradually given me confidence.
Casa Hari, how was this project born and what was the inspiration?
I went to visit an Italian friend after her father passed away—a father who had been a pupil of Walter Gropius. While looking at references by architects of his generation and contemporaries, we discovered the National Stadium in Yoyogi, designed by Kenzo Tange.
Seeing an aerial view of the stadium, I began sketching on my iPad—and that’s how the lacquered Yoyogi table was born. From that moment, I developed the company’s visual identity.
“The centerpiece of my home is the Yoyogi table in garnet: it was the first piece of furniture I designed!”
What is your favorite space in your home or your personal refuge—and why?
The living room. I think placing the round table next to the sofas was a great idea. Now the children do their homework while we relax on the sofas. It has increased our family time. Plus, one day we even had dinner there instead of in the dining room—and it was super pleasant!
What design trends inspire you lately, and how do you apply them in your home?
Lately I think a lot about limestone and lime-plastered walls. I believe—and this is indirect—that it’s due to the influence of Belgian interior designers. However, when applying it, I lean more toward a softened interpretation of the Romanesque style.
“Twelve years ago I used to sneak into various museums in Madrid and imagine myself inside the paintings, interpreting them through clothing.”
Is there an unexpected place that has deeply inspired your work?
Egypt. I went during the COVID confinements and had the privilege of being in a country totally devoid of tourists. I fell so in love with its culture, architecture, mythology, and people that I’m afraid to see it crowded when I return.
What types of projects or creative lines are you eager to explore in the future?
"I’m currently working on my new house, to which I hope to gradually add details. The renovation doesn’t affect the structure, so we’re doing it directly with builders—no architecture firm, construction company, or interior designer—meaning we’re involved 100%.
I continue designing furniture, fashion pieces, and if I enjoy creating our home, perhaps bit by bit I’ll venture into the world of interior design."
Why do you choose The Masie?
Because I believe their furniture is fun and dynamic. They didn’t go for the basic, neutral look we’ve seen a million times.
What do The Masie’s pieces inspire in you?
Each of the pieces aims to bring something different and has its own personality. From The Masie collection, I love the ceramic lamp and the wooden table with ball legs—both strike me as highly artisanal and refined.
“If I could choose one piece of art to have at home, it would be Bosch’s The Garden of Earthly Delights; and for furniture, one of Pierre Cardin’s lacquered pieces.”
Three tips from Inés Ybarra for achieving harmony at home?
1. Homes that are decorated all at once tend to feel cold.
2. Fit in what you already have. Remove anything that doesn’t work without fear or mercy.
3. Walk through the space and listen to what you feel it needs in situ. That decision will give harmony and warmth to the space.
Favorite piece from The Masie
Mango wood round coffee table. It’s so much more beautiful in real life—super wearable anywhere and with a touch of design.
A color
Red.
Favorite style
I like to mix the old with the new. I don’t stick to any one style—it all depends on the place and purpose.
Country or city
City.
References—Your icon in interior design is…?
I prefer architecture over interior design. I love spaces more than decoration. Architecture is the foundation, what makes a space truly memorable. It can, if it’s interesting, do without interior design.