As a globe-trotting creative multi-hyphenate with an eye for good design, it's no surprise that Olivia Lopez is a beacon of inspiration for over 340 thousand Instagram followers. The Manila-born, California-raised writer and creative director spends most of her time on the go, her passion for travel serving to further foster her creativity and influence her personal style.
When she's not gallivanting around the globe, you'll find Olivia in her impeccably-styled home, throwing together healthy meals, reading up on design movements and plotting her next project.
We were lucky enough to catch up with Olivia in a rare spell of down time, during which she talked us through her creative pursuits and her passions for design and travel.
First things first. What do you do?
I'm an author [of Lust for Los Angeles, a guide to LA], contributing writer and founder of a site called Bon Weekender. I also consult brands in creative direction.
Can you describe your creative journey so far?
It's always evolving in a non-linear way. I love being able to work through an intersection of travel, art, design, and media, and I find that these days, I sincerely enjoy being able to tap into writing, photography, creative direction all interchangeably, because at the end of the day what you are doing is producing expression and communication.
Where does your interest in design stem from?
I grew up in Southern California, and spent a lot of holidays in Palm Springs, which is where I discovered Modernism and the Case Study Housing Movement. My interest in design was an expression of the architecture around me. I started researching designers and ideas surrounding Modernism. It became my focal interest throughout my early 20s, which all started by visiting the architectural landmarks in my hometown.
Where do you currently call home?
New York, New York.
You’ve lived in LA and New York. How has your personal style been influenced by the two distinct cities?
My LA style is much more relaxed and resort-wear themed all year round, versus in New York, where my style is determined by seasonality and functionality.
How would you describe your personal interiors aesthetic?
Modern, minimal, and a touch eclectic.
What interior design tips do you have for someone looking to bring some of their own personality to their space?
Find home accents that speak to your personal style: I love sourcing objects around the world, but you can also find scores of unique, one of a kind items at flea markets and vintage shops.
Has your approach to interior design shifted throughout lockdown?
Not at all — I moved to New York in the winter, and when I was furnishing my space I wanted to create a cozy respite from the city. The theme ended up working well for a year in lockdown.
Where do you go to get inspired?
I love watching films and discovering artists on Artsy and Instagram.
What do you do to relax?
I embrace all things East when it comes to R&R: I schedule an acupuncture session or an ayurvedic massages.
You travel extensively. What are some of your favourite places to visit?
Copenhagen for its robust design scene, Iceland for its surreal landscapes, and Cartagena for its warmth and vibrant night life.
How do your travels help to inform your creative work?
Travel allows you to develop and adopt ideas from experiencing new cultures — I really think that travel makes you a more creative person simply from the amount of exposure you gain from engaging in new experiences.
For more creative inspiration, read our conversation with art director Ruben Hughes.
