Ernesto Santalla — Photo by Denis Largeron
Studio Santalla, Inc.
Ernesto Santalla of Studio Santalla, Inc. combines his background in architecture with an impeccable eye for design to provide clients with interior spaces that are cohesive, contemporary, and comfortable.
After graduating with a degree in architecture from Cornell University, Santalla became increasingly interested in the interior as well as exterior design of buildings.
“It didn’t seem to make sense to me that one thing had stopped and the other one had started,” explains Santalla. “Sometimes, the results seemed like two separate buildings.”
For this reason, Santalla focuses his business model on cohesion. Every undertaking achieves a unity between the interior and exterior of the building. “There is full integration. There is a consciousness,” he states.
DC Loft Designed by Studio Santalla
When approaching any project, Santalla ensures that the space is both comfortable and livable. “Even when we do interiors alone, we are conscious of the character of the building,” he notes. With a focus on sustainability, Santalla ensures that his projects and designs reflect the current market trends and utilize the latest technologies.
“I think the biggest challenge is achieving the best results within the available means,” he notes. “My firm has a very focused vision, and we guarantee that you’ll achieve really high-quality results, regardless of the budget. I know we can do it because we have.”
In addition to running one of the leading design firms in Washington, D.C., Santalla also serves as President of the Capital Area Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, where he interacts daily with other members of the business community. Although his studio is geared toward the general public, he notes the importance of supporting LGBT owned and operated businesses in the District. When considering his personal business needs, Santalla often looks to members within his own chamber first.
“In my industry, you need to select wisely, and I want people to select me because I do good work,” he affirms. One of Santalla’s favorite projects is one that he completed in France. After working closely with the contractor and client, it exceeded his expectations.
“I am proud of all my projects for different reasons,” he notes.
Delivering designs that are contemporary and socially conscious, Studio Santalla continues to provide the highest levels of quality and cohesion within and beyond the District.
