You’re not on the wrong website. I’m not going to sell you a villa. At least, not right now.
What we do is something different: we design them. We imagine together that living room where the morning sun comes in, that terrace where you share a glass of wine while watching the sunset, that kitchen that connects with the garden and is always full of life. We design homes with soul. And if you’re thinking about building your villa in Sotogrande, there are a few things you should know before getting too carried away.
Because yes, this is about dreams. But also about decisions. Plans. Permits. Time. Real support. People who know how things are done.
And if you stay, I’ll tell you everything you can expect from the design and delivery process of a villa in a place as special as Sotogrande. No embellishments. No technical jargon. As if we were talking over coffee.
If you’re here, you’re probably wondering…
How do you start a villa from scratch? Do you need the plot first? How long does the process take? How much can be customized? Is the licensing and regulatory aspect in Sotogrande very complex? And what if halfway through I want to change something?
These questions (and many more) are asked every week by people like you. People who one day decide that they want a different kind of home. Not something that already exists and more or less fits. No. Something conceived from scratch. With meaning, a story and coherence.
In this article, we’re going to break down the entire process. From the moment you consider buying a plot to the moment you walk through the door with the keys in your hand. We’ll tell you the good, the challenging, the exciting, and also the parts that require patience.
We want you to know what you’re getting into. So you don’t end up like that friend who dreamed of a Mercedes with a Citroën budget. So you can make decisions with your feet on the ground without taking your eyes off the sky.
And if all of this resonates with you, keep reading. Because designing a villa is a unique experience. And you enjoy it much more when you know where you’re stepping.
Starting at the beginning (for real)
Don’t buy the plot blindly
It may seem obvious, but many people come with a purchased plot and then discover that it’s not suitable for what they want to do. That the orientation doesn’t help. That buildability is limited. That the plot is full of cork oaks, and it’s almost impossible to transplant them to make room for the house.
In our studio, before drawing a single line, we analyze the plot with you. Not only from a technical perspective: also from an emotional one. Can you imagine yourself here? Do you like the sound of the surroundings? Do the views inspire you? Because all of that influences more than you think.
Style isn’t just aesthetics. It’s identity
It happens often. Someone arrives with Pinterest photos or images from international architecture magazines. All very beautiful. All very polished. But when we ask how they live, what they need, what makes them feel at home… everything changes.
That’s why we don’t sell styles. We design homes that align with your life. If you have three dogs, or work from home, or love cooking for big groups, that matters. Your habits need space. Literally.
The environment matters (a lot)
Sotogrande has something special. Light. Wind. Greenery. Silence. Water. And not all plots are the same. Nor do all villas have to face south or have eight-meter windows.
Every project we create adapts to the environment. Not only because it’s the right thing to do in architecture, but because it’s the intelligent thing to do. Homes that respect the landscape last longer. They feel better. And they’re more efficient.
The step-by-step with no tricks
First ideas: the preliminary project
This is where the magic begins. We listen, draw and show you sketches. We help you visualize what is currently only in your head. And we don’t do it just once. We adjust. Repeat. Refine.
This phase isn’t about rushing. It’s about truly understanding what you want. And what you don’t.
Technical project: what you don’t see but holds everything together
Once we have the preliminary project, we move on to the technical phase. Structures. Installations. Documentation to request the building permit. Meetings with engineers. Lots of emails and drawings that—don’t worry—we handle ourselves.
Construction: soil, concrete and decisions
Here there’s noise, earth being moved, and lots of activity. We supervise each stage. We keep you informed. And the best part: you can visit the site, touch, ask questions, make decisions live. Yes, you can also change your mind about that kitchen floor (as long as it’s on time, of course).
Delivery: when it finally smells like home
Delivery day is special. It’s not just about signing. It’s seeing how everything you imagined is now there. We review every corner with you. Adjust whatever needs adjusting. And we stay close in case something doesn’t fully click.
Because a house doesn’t end when it’s built. It begins when it’s lived in.
Details that make the difference
Efficient architecture
We don’t just build beautiful homes. We create homes that breathe, that regulate warmth and coolness well, that don’t rely on constantly turning the air conditioning on and off.
We use noble materials, bioclimatic designs, geothermal systems when they fit, solar panels when they make sense. Because sustainability isn’t a trend. It’s common sense.
Smart home technology with intention
We don’t sell robotized homes. But we do offer smart home solutions that improve your daily life. Blinds that go down when needed. Lights that adjust themselves. Temperature control from your phone. Comfortable. Simple. Without complications.
Materials and finishes with soul
You don’t need to know about porcelain tiles or tropical woods. That’s what we’re here for. But we accompany you to showrooms, compare options, explain maintenance and advantages. In the end, you make choices with understanding. And with good taste.
Paperwork without nightmares
Permits. Stamped projects. Local regulations. Technical reports. We handle all of that so you can focus on enjoying the process. And sleep peacefully.
The doubts we all have (and no one dares to ask)
What if it gets delayed?
It can happen. Because of rain, suppliers, a thousand things. But if you have a team that plans wisely and communicates well, delays are managed. They don’t multiply.
Will I be able to give my opinion on everything?
Of course. In fact, you should. This is your home. Our role is to guide you, not impose things. Although sometimes we’ll say, “that might not work the way you think.” Always with respect and experience.
And what if I regret a decision?
It happens to all of us. That’s why we try to foresee it beforehand. But if a change comes up, it’s evaluated, calculated, and decided. Nothing is set in stone. Well, unless you choose natural stone.
Epilogue for those who are ready
If you’ve made it this far, you probably don’t just want a house. You want an experience. A process you enjoy, remember, and feel connected to. Not a made-to-measure project, but a home that resembles you.
And if that’s the case, at The Villas Architect you’ll feel at home even before we start building it.
Discover how we work, and take a look at our projects. The next one may start with you.
And with no wheels.
