Nestled in the rolling hills between Marbella and Gibraltar, Cortijo Genesis - is a vibrant boutique hotel that breathes new life into a former ruin by interior architect Victoria-Maria Geyer

Victoria-Maria Geyer has transformed the property into a 600-square-metre colourful sanctuary, drawing inspiration from Palm Springs' bold aesthetic and infusing it with a distinct Andalusian charm. With its lush gardens, playful decor, and artfully curated details, Cortijo Genesis - offers an exclusive and intimate escape. This oasis is nestled in the Andalusian countryside, just a few kilometers from the village of Gaucín. Immersed in lush greenery, this former ruin accommodates up to 12 guests and features five bedrooms, a swimming pool, and a one-hectare outdoor space landscaped with a garden and a permaculture vegetable plot.

From the moment one steps into the marvelous garden, the creative energy behind the project is apparent. True to her signature style, Geyer envisioned a vibrant and colorful setting. The designer drew inspiration from the bold aesthetic of Palm Springs, adding a distinctive Californian mid-century twist. White wrought-iron sun loungers, parasols, and seating in pink fabric with red piping set the tone—an open invitation to unwind.

The hotel’s courtyard is utterly charming, with a fountain adorned in colorful tiles that transports visitors to a wildly romantic hacienda. Seating is upholstered in red fabric trimmed with white piping, while blue-and-white striped parasols gently hint at the nearby sea. The tabletops are made from multicoloured, undulating tiles—playful yet refined.

Inside, each room draws inspiration from a different semi-precious stone: aventurine green, citrine yellow, lapis lazuli blue, carnelian red, and morganite pink. The walls are kept deliberately neutral to create a calm atmosphere, with color subtly introduced through fabrics, furnishings, and decorative accents. Geyer has thoughtfully curated a collection of unique objects for each space, such as the woven raffia heads by artist Natalia Brilli, modernist tapestries by Marc Baumann, and the striking Cronos and Manon lamps from Heaps & Woods. Rugs by Elitis and Edelgrund, together with Pierre Frey fabric blinds, provide structure and warmth.

In the bathrooms, a chic touch is added with basins adorned in intricate floral and celestial motifs—ones that are particularly dear to the designer. The common areas are absolutely charming. In the reading room, the ceiling—painted by hand with wooden slats in a rainbow pattern—brings an uplifting and joyful energy to the space. The sofa from Popus Edition, upholstered in fabric by Maison Thevenon, paired with curtains from the same brand, adds a chic, ethnic twist to the decor.

In the living room, the Wenceslas sofas from Heimat—Geyer’s own furniture collection—along with striped orange-and-white fabric from Manuel Canovas, create a warm and inviting atmosphere. In the kitchen, the saffron-yellow tiles on the backsplash add a playful and welcoming touch. At the centre of the room, a 1960s Roger Capron table lends character to the space, while a linen painting above the fireplace, The Lemon Bowl by artist Gordon Hopkins, adds another curated detail.

Finally, the Waldemar Rothe hammock from Rosenthal, a piece from 1974 displayed by Morentz Gallery, stands as a key piece in the room, inviting moments of contemplation. Geyer delivers a colorful yet thoughtful design that exudes liveliness—her eclectic spirit is evident, bringing joy to all who visit.