Marisa Saavedra-Gutierrez is Principal Interior Designer at Spatial Harmony. She earned a degree in Interior Design and a certificate in Kitchen and Bath Design. She is the recipient of the 2022 Fall Homes of Enchantment “Best Interior Decorating” award and served as past President board member of ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) New Mexico Chapter. Marisa contributed to our Building Resource feature and here shares her top tips for a successful new build or renovation.

Spatial Harmony’s Marisa Saavedra-Gutierrez on Remodeling Your Home, Style Trends, and More

TABLE Magazine: For someone undertaking a new build or remodel for the first time, what would be your advice for first steps in the process? 

Marisa Saavedra-Gutierrez: The first step is clarity. Before selecting finishes or layouts, homeowners should define how they truly live in their space — their routines, priorities, and long-term needs. 

From a practical standpoint, assembling the right team early is essential. That means engaging a designer, contractor, and architect (if applicable) before decisions are made in isolation. Many costly mistakes happen when selections are made without considering the overall vision, budget, or construction realities. 

A thoughtful planning phase will always save time, money, and stress later in the process. 

TM: What things can help make the process go smoothly? And conversely, what are some common mistakes to avoid? 

MSG: Clear communication and realistic timelines make the greatest difference. Remodels and new builds are layered projects, and decisions are interconnected. When selections are made in a coordinated, organized way, the process runs far more efficiently. 

Common mistakes include: 

• Making rushed decisions under pressure 

• Changing direction mid-project 

• Underestimating lead times for materials and furnishings 

• Focusing solely on aesthetics instead of functionality 

Another major oversight is not establishing a cohesive design plan from the beginning. Without a roadmap, projects often feel disjointed and more expensive in the long run. 

TM: What role can an interior designer or decorator play to help keep things on target? 

An interior designer serves as both a creative director and a project guide. We ensure that every selection — from cabinetry to lighting to furnishings — aligns with the overall vision, budget, and architectural intent. 

Beyond aesthetics, a designer helps: 

• Prevent costly design mistakes 

• Coordinate with contractors and vendors 

• Manage timelines and procurement 

• Maintain design cohesion across all spaces 

In essence, we translate ideas into a structured, executable plan while keeping the client’s goals at the center of every decision. 

TM: If you had to define the style ethos you bring to a project, what would it be? 

MSG: I would describe my style ethos as refined, livable, and regionally grounded. 

As a New Mexican designer, I draw inspiration from our landscape, heritage architecture, and natural color palettes, while blending them with timeless and functional design principles. My goal is never to impose a trend, but to create spaces that feel authentic to the client and harmonious with the home’s architecture. 

Each project is curated to feel layered, intentional, and enduring rather than temporary or trend-driven. 

TM: As we look into 2026 and beyond, any trends you’re seeing in home design? 

MSG: We are seeing a strong shift toward intentional living and long-term functionality. Clients are investing more in quality materials, energy efficiency, and spaces that support daily wellness. 

Key trends include: 

• Warmer, nature-inspired color palettes 

• Textural materials such as plaster, wood, and stone 

• Integrated smart home and motorized window treatments 

• Multi-functional spaces that adapt to modern lifestyles 

• A return to craftsmanship and locally inspired design elements 

Rather than fast trends, homeowners are prioritizing timelessness and personalization. 

TM: What makes your work special and sets you apart? 

MSG: What sets my work apart is the level of personalization and full-service guidance I provide from concept to completion. I do not approach projects as isolated design moments, but as comprehensive transformations that consider architecture, functionality, and the client’s lifestyle. 

Through my studio, Spatial Harmony Interiors, I offer a highly curated and hands-on process — from space planning and material selections to furnishings and custom window treatments — ensuring a cohesive and elevated result. 

Additionally, my deep roots in New Mexico influence my design perspective. I value heritage, craftsmanship, and a sense of place, which allows me to create spaces that feel both timeless and uniquely meaningful to my clients. 

Photos Courtesy of Spatial Harmony

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