When it comes to buying property on the Costa del Sol, decisions are rarely based on logic alone. According to real estate professionals at Target Property Spain, buyers are driven by something far more powerful — emotion.
In this Deep Dive interview, Keith from Target Property Spain sits down with interior designer Katie Longshaw-Pye, founder of Magpye Creative Interiors, to explore how thoughtful design can transform not only how a property looks — but how it feels, sells, and performs as an investment.
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Latest Listings
Why Interior Design Is About Feeling — Not Furniture
One of the most powerful insights from the conversation is simple:
buyers don’t remember properties — they remember how those properties made them feel.
After viewing multiple homes in a single day, most buyers can’t recall specific layouts or finishes. Instead, they refer back to “the one that felt right.”
👉 Learn more about how buyers behave in our guide:
Buyer behaviour
This is where interior design becomes a critical tool — not just for aesthetics, but for creating a lifestyle buyers can instantly connect with.
The Biggest Mistake Property Sellers Make
A common issue across the Costa del Sol property market is lack of identity.
Many homes — particularly new developments — are delivered as blank, generic spaces:
- Identical kitchens
- Standardised finishes
- Minimal personality
👉 Thinking of selling? Read our tips here:
How long does it take to sell a property in Mijas Costa
Katie highlights that sellers often fail to:
- Properly zone spaces
- Give rooms a clear purpose
- Showcase how the property supports a lifestyle
Why Presentation Can Increase Property Value
Presentation isn’t just about making a home look good — it directly impacts:
- Click-through rates on property portals
- Viewing requests
- Final sale price
A well-designed property:
- Photographs better
- Attracts more interest online
- Feels more valuable in person
Furnishing a Blank New-Build Property: Where to Start
New-build properties in Spain are often handed over as a blank canvas.
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new-developments-costa-del-sol/
Katie advises starting with:
- Layout and lifestyle planning
- Lighting and electrical design
- Material upgrades
- Furniture (last step)
👉 Learn more about buying off-plan:
Buying off-plan
Timing Matters: When to Hire an Interior Designer
Interior designers should be involved as early as possible — ideally before completion.
Early planning allows for better:
- Space flow
- Lighting design
- Storage solutions
Designing for Lifestyle: Indoor-Outdoor Living in Spain
A defining feature of Costa del Sol living is the indoor-outdoor lifestyle.
👉 Explore lifestyle areas here:
Lifestyle areas
Outdoor spaces should be treated as:
- Living rooms
- Dining areas
- Entertainment zones
Rental vs Residential: Two Very Different Approaches
Design differs depending on usage.
👉 Considering rental income? Read:
Investing in Spain?
Rental properties should focus on:
- Durability
- Broad appeal
- “Boutique hotel” feel
Avoiding Trends and Creating Timeless Design
Trend-led design quickly dates properties.
Instead, focus on:
- Mediterranean style
- Personalisation
- Longevity
Choosing the Right Team (And Avoiding Costly Mistakes)
Success depends on the right team.
Key advice:
- Avoid “too available” contractors
- Don’t choose purely on price
- Prioritise experience and communication
Final Thoughts
Interior design plays a crucial role in:
- Creating emotional connection
- Increasing value
- Selling faster
- Maximising rental returns
👉 Ready to take the next step?
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