Designing Atmospheres: Astet Studio’s Approach to Hospitality Interiors
people • designers
Astet Studio was founded in 2018 by Spanish architect Óscar Engroba and Jordanian architect Ala Zreigat. Both trained as architects, they transitioned into interior design, establishing their multidisciplinary studio in Barcelona. Their work emphasizes a holistic approach, integrating architecture, interior design, industrial design, and branding to create cohesive spaces. Astet Studio has gained recognition for its innovative designs, including the award-winning Leña Marbella restaurant, which received the World's Best Restaurant Design accolade at the Restaurant & Bar Design Awards in 2021.
WEBSITE: astetstudio.com INSTAGRAM: astetstudio
Words: designeers
MARCH 2025
DESIGNEERS
Could you elaborate on how Astet Studio balances simplicity and complexity in your designs?
Astet Studio
Astet Studio’s design philosophy revolves around the seamless balance between simplicity and complexity. Our holistic approach ensures that every project is well-researched, with a unique narrative guiding the design process. We blend tradition, organic ideas, and the surrounding environment to create visually compelling yet functional spaces. Every project is developed with precision and without limitations, often incorporating bespoke materials and custom-designed furniture to ensure a unique harmony between all elements.
DESIGNEERS
How does the Mediterranean palette and the essence of Barcelona influence your design process?
Astet Studio
Our Mediterranean roots are at the core of our design inspiration. We draw from the region’s natural colour palette—earthy tones, deep blues, and lush greens—alongside traditional craftsmanship, textures, and organic materials. The warmth, light, and energy of the Mediterranean are always reflected in our projects, ensuring that each space evokes a sense of place while maintaining a global appeal.
Smoked Room Madrid
Leña Marbella
DESIGNEERS
Can you share insights into your recent hospitality projects, such as Leña in Marbella or Smoked Room in Madrid?
Astet Studio
Leña Marbella is a project that encapsulates the essence of fire, wood, and smoke. The interior design reflects the raw power of these elements through a striking sculptural wooden ceiling, reminiscent of tree rings and burning embers. This multisensory experience aligns with the restaurant’s culinary focus on wood-fired cooking.
Smoked Room Madrid, on the other hand, is an intimate dining concept where fire plays a central role. The design is mysterious and immersive, with dark tones and carefully curated lighting creating a theatrical ambiance for a limited number of diners. This project won best restaurant design award in the small space category at the Restaurant & Bar Design Awards.
DESIGNEERS
What were the unique challenges and design solutions implemented in these projects?
Astet Studio
One of the main challenges in Leña Marbella was creating a space that felt both warm and sophisticated while maintaining a strong connection to the culinary experience. We solved this by using raw materials such as charred wood and stone, along with a sculptural ceiling that acts as both a visual and functional centerpiece. For Smoked Room Madrid, the challenge was to design an intimate, exclusive space where the dining experience felt theatrical yet comfortable. We achieved this through carefully curated lighting, dark and textured materials, and a layout that enhances interaction between the chef and the guests.
Gran Hotel Mas den Bruno
Nota Blu Marbella
Aethos Ericeira
“Materiality is fundamental to our design process. We believe that materials should tell a story and enhance the overall experience of a space. Whether it’s custom-made tiles, handcrafted wooden elements, or textured stone surfaces, we curate each material to align with the project’s narrative. This meticulous selection process ensures a timeless and cohesive design.”
Astet Studio
DESIGNEERS
Astet Studio has received international acclaim, including the "Best Overall Restaurant" award in 2021 for Leña. How has this recognition impacted your studio?
Astet Studio
Winning the “Best Overall Restaurant” award for Leña Marbella was a pivotal moment for Astet Studio. It reinforced our commitment to excellence and pushed us to continue innovating within hospitality design. This recognition has led to exciting new collaborations and projects on an international scale, from Dubai to Miami and beyond.
DESIGNEERS
Can you describe your typical workflow when embarking on a new hospitality design project?
Astet Studio
Our process begins with extensive research—analyzing the client’s needs, location, and cultural context. We then develop a strong narrative that serves as the foundation for the design. This is followed by mood boards, conceptual drawings, and high-quality 3D renderings. Once the concept is solidified, we focus on material selection, custom furniture design, and detailed technical drawings. We also oversee construction to ensure the design is executed to perfection. Our approach is hands-on from start to finish, ensuring that no detail is overlooked.
DESIGNEERS
How do you collaborate with clients to ensure their vision aligns with your design principles?
Astet Studio
We believe in a fluid and transparent communication process. Every project is a dialogue between our expertise and the client’s vision. By developing a clear narrative from the beginning, we ensure that the final design not only meets but exceeds the client’s expectations while maintaining the essence of Astet Studio’s design philosophy
Gran Hotel Mas den Bruno
Nota Blu Marbella
DESIGNEERS
Astet Studio is known for its attention to detail and the use of bespoke materials. How do you approach material selection in your projects?
Astet Studio
Materiality is fundamental to our design process. We believe that materials should tell a story and enhance the overall experience of a space. Whether it’s custom-made tiles, handcrafted wooden elements, or textured stone surfaces, we curate each material to align with the project’s narrative. This meticulous selection process ensures a timeless and cohesive design.
DESIGNEERS
What role does sustainability play in your design decisions?
Astet Studio
Sustainability is an essential part of our approach. We prioritize the use of locally sourced materials, durable finishes, and handcrafted elements that minimize environmental impact. By designing spaces that stand the test of time, we contribute to a more sustainable future in interior design.
DESIGNEERS
Are there any upcoming projects or areas of focus that Astet Studio is particularly excited about?
Astet Studio
We have several exciting projects on the horizon, including restaurants in Miami, the Dominican Republic, Mallorca and Malta, as well as new hotel projects in Madrid, and Lisbon. We are also exploring new design challenges, such as yacht and nightclub interiors, to expand our creative boundaries.
La Cabane Beach Club
