Designer Series: Rodrigo Vargas, Storytelling and Hospitality Design

Written by Phillip Jeffries | Jul 24, 2026 2:41:43 PM

Whether designing a luxury resort, spa, or private residence, Rodrigo Vargas believes the most compelling spaces transport us somewhere else. Discover how storytelling, place, and coastal influence shape his award-winning work.

Welcome to PJ's Designer Series, where we spotlight standout projects and the creative minds behind them. Each feature explores the inspiration and design process that shape remarkable spaces. In this special edition, we're stepping beyond residential interiors to showcase the world of hospitality design through PJ Contract, highlighting award-winning resorts and spas designed for performance, scale, and unforgettable guest experiences.

Based in Southern California, Rodrigo Vargas Design is known for creating immersive environments rooted in story and place. From luxury resorts to destination spas, each project is thoughtfully tailored to its surroundings. At The Spa at Terranea Resort, that vision comes to life through a design inspired by the Pacific coastline, where natural textures and ocean-hued tones create a sense of tranquility and escape.

We sat down with the firm's founder, Rodrigo Vargas, to hear more about his inspiration and design philosophy. Watch the video >

From an early age, Rodrigo Vargas was drawn to design and that early fascination evolved into a lifelong pursuit of creating spaces that tell a story. "I've always been drawn to design," said Rodrigo. "When I was a kid, I was probably the only 9-year-old who had a subscription to Architectural Digest." Today, he leads an international, full-service design firm known for crafting immersive environments across luxury resorts, spas, and high-end residential projects worldwide.

"I founded our firm 15 years ago with the understanding of trying to create a place where we could be creative," said Rodrigo. "And be a firm that builds and designs spaces based on story."

Fast-forward to today, and Rodrigo’s work has earned global recognition, including honors from Hospitality Design magazine and The International Hotel & Property Awards, along with distinction as a NEWH TopID. Bringing his story-driven approach to projects around the world, his firm designs and builds spaces that feel layered, experiential, and deeply connected to their surroundings.

The Spa at Terranea Resort
Perched above the Pacific on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, The Spa at Terranea Resort is a 50,000-square-foot wellness destination designed to mirror its coastal surroundings. "Our inspiration was actually its location," said Rodrigo. "It's an incredible property sitting right on the coast of the cliffs of Palos Verdes." Recently refreshed with a multimillion-dollar renovation, the space blends indoor and outdoor environments, offering oceanfront relaxation areas and treatments rooted in the rhythms of nature.

With 25 treatment rooms and signature suites inspired by earth, ocean, and fire, the spa delivers a holistic experience shaped by natural elements, calming palettes, and a deep connection to place. A palette inspired by sand and sea, paired with layered textures, creates a sense of quiet luxury. Our Beyond collection delivered on all these needs.

"Vinyl Solstice, Vinyl Herringbone, Soho Hemp, and the Beyond collection were part of the inspiration of our work," said Rodrigo. "They're very natural and muted colors that went from the colors of the sand to the blues. And we found all these tones in these collections."

Click here to see another stunning Rodrigo Vargas Design luxury spa project >>

View full post