
At Castro, we believe that lighting is art, emotion, and storytelling in form. Interior designer Marina Hughes exemplifies this philosophy with her design ethos centered around quiet luxury, intentionality, and timeless expression. We spoke with Marina about her experience with Castro Lighting and how our creations have played a role in her most inspiring projects.
When asked to describe Castro in three words, Marina responded that the brand is "bold, intricate, and distinctive." These qualities, she believes, reflect the spirit of the designs—pieces that stand out while showcasing a deep commitment to craftsmanship.
Interior Design Project by Marina Hughes
Among Castro’s many collections, Marina is particularly drawn to the Triumph Wall Light, which she describes as "an oversized sculptural piece with luxury finishes to match any scheme." For her, it "epitomizes the brand's commitment to blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design."
She appreciates how this design creates "a warm, diffused light that enhances the ambiance of any space," making it ideal for both intimate and open areas. Its understated yet striking form offers "versatile application," suiting a range of interior styles from modern luxury to classic elegance.
What Marina values most in Castro’s creations is "the seamless fusion of artistic design and exceptional craftsmanship." To her, every fixture feels like "a sculptural statement—bold, refined, and full of character." She emphasizes "the attention to form, texture, and detail—combined with high-quality materials," which together deliver what she calls "a consistent 'wow' factor for clients."
Marina describes her experience working with Castro Lighting as "consistently smooth and rewarding." She highlights the team’s responsiveness, expertise, and genuine passion for their products, which makes collaboration both efficient and enjoyable. She notes that "what stands out most is Castro’s commitment to excellence—not only in their lighting but also in their customer service." For her, their ability to tailor solutions that meet both aesthetic goals and technical needs is invaluable.
Reflecting on her past projects, Marina points to a contemporary family residence in Surrey as a standout collaboration with Castro. In transforming the home, the design focused on a double-height kitchen and family area that opens onto private gardens. To enhance this architectural centerpiece, she selected Castro’s Twist Suspension, which she says "added both architectural drama and a warm, ambient glow." These pieces became focal points in the space, "tying together the room’s modern finishes and natural light."
Marina’s design philosophy centers on creating spaces where people feel "inspired, comfortable, and deeply connected." She aims to evoke calm, beauty, and quiet luxury through intentional design choices, where "every detail feels purposeful and elevates daily living." Her ultimate goal is for people to walk away from her spaces feeling they’ve experienced something "unique and timeless." As she sees it, "great design leaves a lasting impression—not just visually, but emotionally—it should feel effortless yet unforgettable."
Discussing current directions in interior design, Marina observes a move toward "a more timeless and curated aesthetic," which she finds refreshing. She believes there is a growing appreciation for elegance that lasts—"spaces that feel refined rather than trendy, where quality materials and thoughtful craftsmanship take centre stage." She’s especially inspired by the revival of Art Deco elements, which she loves for their "bold geometry, rich finishes, and sense of glamour." When these are balanced with contemporary minimalism, she says, they "bring depth and character without overwhelming a space." For Marina, "it’s about layering history with modernity in a way that feels intentional and effortless."
Through her thoughtful and emotionally resonant approach to design, Marina Hughes continues to demonstrate how interiors can be both artistically compelling and deeply personal. At Castro Lighting, we are proud to support her creative vision and honored to see our pieces integrated into projects that celebrate timeless elegance and bold individuality.
Stay tuned for more stories from our Castro Design Community—where passion meets precision, and lighting becomes legacy.