The beginning of the journey | Elisa Gontijo

What was the defining moment that led you to decide to become an entrepreneur? 

"I have always been determined, fearless, and innovative. After serving as a design director at a large company, I felt it was time to forge my own path and create something that truly reflected my vision of design and experience.

I took the risk of entrepreneurship to build my own path, offering my clients something beyond a completed project: a truly unique “welcome home” experience.

It’s the feeling of stepping into a home, office, hotel, or resort as if it were a high-end hotel: the move already complete, the fridge stocked, a signature scent filling the space, fresh flowers in every room, washed towels arranged in the bathrooms, and clean, pressed linens on the beds. Everything is meticulously enhanced with personalized decor, exclusive art pieces, curated furniture, textures, and fully custom lighting.

Each project is unique because every client’s identity is translated into the space. In every delivery, I’m guided by the same principle: details, details, and more details—they’re what transform a project into a sophisticated, welcoming, and unforgettable experience."

How do you handle failure or mistakes made along the way?

"I believe there’s no such thing as failure—only learning.

In life and business, we always encounter two types of people: those who bring solutions and those who seek problems. I chose to be a solution. Every day, I wake up with one question in mind: “What   will I solve today?”

Every mistake I made became a learning opportunity. Each challenge helped me grow, become stronger, more prepared, and a better professional.

I also believe there are no unsolvable problems—only situations to be managed. That’s why being present is essential to me: closely overseeing the project, monitoring every detail from start to finish, not just sitting in an office. This active presence ensures every project reflects excellence in every aspect."

The beginning of the journey

Design407 Concept | Special Interview on Elisa P. Gontijo

About Design407 Concept

Founded and led by Elisa P. Gontijo, Design407 Concept brings over 20 years of international expertise in architecture, interior design, and project management. Elisa has directed landmark projects across Brazil, Dubai, the United States, Paraguay, Chile, and Uruguay, spanning luxury hotels, resorts, clubhouses, hospitals, and high-end residences.

Her background includes conceptual design, FF&E procurement, and project coordination, ensuring that every detail—from feasibility to final execution—is delivered with precision and artistry. Known for her ability to blend timeless sophistication with innovative use of materials, Elisa has built a reputation for creating environments that are as functional as they are emotionally resonant.

At Design407 Concept, she leads a multidisciplinary team driven by one vision: to transform spaces into bespoke experiences of quiet luxury.

Selected Portfolio

Over the past two decades, Elisa P. Gontijo and Design407 Concept have had the privilege of shaping landmark projects across the globe. From luxury resorts in Dubai, Brazil and USA to private residences in the United States, Brazil, Bahamas and Europe, each project reflects our commitment to timeless design, bespoke detail, and architectural precision.

Follow Elisa P. Gontijo click on the icon below:

What are the latest developments in your business right now, and what are the main projects for 2026?

"Currently, I'm involved in projects that perfectly embody the essence of Design407 Concept: exclusive resorts in Kissimmee, high-end residences in Florida and Brazil, and special collaborations with brands and developers who believe in the power of design as an experience.

For 2026, the focus is on expanding this international vision even further, taking Design407's DNA to new markets and strengthening strategic partnerships. Among the major goals are:

• Hospitality Projects – continue creating resorts and clubhouses that blend art, architecture, and hospitality into complete experiences.

• Luxury Residences – deliver unique, fully personalized villas and homes, always with the exclusive “welcome home” concept.

• Signature Design – launch collections of furniture and custom pieces, translating our language of timeless elegance into design products.

• Global Expansion – extend the brand’s presence to new international destinations, establishing Design407 as a benchmark in quiet luxury.

Beyond projects, my commitment for 2026 is to continue creating spaces that evoke emotions, tell stories, and leave unforgettable memories."

If you could go back in time, what would you say to your novice entrepreneurial self? What key advice would you give to someone just starting out?

"If i could go back in time, I’d tell myself: Everything will work out! Keep studying, improving, and nurturing your curiosity. Never lose your passion for design—its very essence.

Keep learning about the history of art and design, because the past shapes the future. Nothing in the world is stronger than art: it endures through time, connects people, and defines our humanity. Art is our only true link to the past.

Keep giving your all, believing in yourself, and working as if there’s no tomorrow. Work hard on what you believe in and, above all, what makes you happy.

Because, deep down, I’ve never felt like I woke up a single day to “work”—I wake up every day to be happy and live my dreams."

Special Interview with Elisa P. Gontijo

http://www.design407.com

Related Stories