Meet the people behind the place : The Terrace House and Casa Lab

Meet José Luis, a passionate hotelier with roots in Mallorca and an impressive international career in the hospitality industry. After years of experience with major hotel chains and living in world cities like New York and Mexico, he returned to Spain to pursue his own dream. In this interview, he shares his love for hospitality, the journey toward creating his own accommodations, and the unique atmosphere that makes The Terrace House and Casa Lab so special.

Before we dive into the details, could you briefly introduce yourself?

José Luis, 32 years old, originally from Mallorca.

We would love to share a bit about you as a person with our guests. Would you like to tell us more about yourself?

Passionate about hospitality and a sports enthusiast.

When and in what way did this property come into your life, and what motivated you to make it part of your journey?

I’ve been working as a hotel director for a large hotel chain for 10 years. I’ve lived in New York and Mexico, and I made the decision to return to Spain to pursue my own dream: to put everything I’ve learned into practice, combined with the experience I’ve gained over the years.

Can you tell us more about the process of renovating and furnishing your property?

I always try to follow the same style: minimalist and sustainable.

On a personal level, what makes your property truly special for you? Any specific memories or moments that make it dear to your heart?

What makes it truly special for me is the vision I had when I bought it. It was a small house in ruins, and seeing how it turned out over time fills me with pride.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your property?

Without a doubt, it’s a place filled with peace and calm. For me, it’s a space to disconnect and reconnect with yourself. That’s the essence of all our properties: nature, peace, and stillness.

Which part of your property do you love the most, and why?

The fire corner — a place to sit and simply be present in the moment.

What makes the location of your property unique and special?

All our houses are located in a unique spot because we’re surrounded by nature, yet just a few minutes from the city center. It’s the best of both worlds: easy access to explore the city, and complete peace when you return.

Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly features connected to your property that you're proud of?

We collect rainwater and use eco-friendly cleaning products.

What inspired or motivated you to start renting your property to guests?

As I mentioned, I’ve been in tourism and hospitality for many years. On top of that, my parents have had a holiday home in Mallorca for years. I applied my knowledge there, started managing it, and made improvements. In The Terrace House, I saw the opportunity to create a place just as special.

Can you paint a vivid picture of the overall experience someone can expect when staying at your property?

From personal experience and guest feedback, I can confidently say that the main thing guests experience is peace and well-being. Being surrounded by nature and a minimalist design quiets the mental noise and helps you reconnect with yourself.

In what ways does your accommodation stand out from others? What makes it a unique experience for guests?

Our property stands out by offering an authentic experience of connection with nature, tranquility, and rural beauty. Each home — whether it’s The Terrace House or LAB — has been designed with aesthetic sensitivity, respect for the environment, and a focus on simplicity. We are surrounded by over 300 century-old olive trees, we produce our own olive oil, and we pay attention to every detail to ensure guests feel peace from the very first moment. It’s not just a place to stay, it’s a retreat — a place to unplug, take a deep breath, and reconnect with what truly matters.

What is the best compliment you’ve ever received from a guest?

One of the most touching compliments we’ve received came from a guest who said: “I came looking for rest and I’m leaving with inner peace. This place has something magical that words can’t explain.” Comments like that remind us why we created this space and what we truly want to share.

What do you hope guests will remember most about their stay?

We hope guests take with them a deep sense of calm, that they’ve slowed down for a few days and reconnected with themselves. We want them to remember the silence, the natural light, the smell of the countryside, the taste of our olive oil, and the warmth of the space. More than just a stay, we want to offer an experience that inspires them to live more slowly and intentionally.

Do you have any recommendations for guests to fully enjoy their holiday?

Yes, to get the most out of their stay in Tarragona, we recommend starting the day with a slow breakfast outdoors, surrounded by nature. A walk among the olive trees at sunset is almost a must — the light at that hour is magical. We also suggest turning off your phone, reading a book on the terrace, and if your body calls for it, taking a nap with the windows open.
And of course, don’t forget to taste our olive oil — made right here with love and respect for the land.

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