Joan Cusachs is a licensed architect, graduating from the International University of Catalonia (UIC) in 2011. He began his career at GCA Architects in Barcelona before founding his own interior design studio in 2016, specializing in luxury residential projects. He later joined LUV Studio as Senior Architect and Interior Designer, leading projects across Spain, France, Madagascar, Senegal, and Colombia. In 2018, he completed a postgraduate degree in Retail Interior Design at Ártidi with high honors.
Since joining ELIA as Interior Design Director in 2022, Joan has led hospitality, residential, retail, and workplace projects across Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. His portfolio includes the Six Senses Kaplankaya Resort in Turkey, Tbilisi Hills Wellness & Leisure Centre, Roca Gallery headquarters, and a luxury cigar lounge for the three-Michelin-starred Cocina Hermanos Torres. He has also taught Design Studio in the Master of Architecture program at UIC, combining professional practice with academic excellence.
ELIA was founded to shape the future through the integration of architecture, design, technology, and sustainability. Building on OAB’s legacy, the studio brings together architects, engineers, software developers, UX specialists, humanists, and other experts to deliver innovative, cross-disciplinary solutions that respond to society’s evolving needs.
Rather than operating as a traditional architecture practice, ELIA works at the intersection of multiple disciplines, combining research, creativity, and technical expertise to create meaningful physical and digital environments. This collaborative approach enables the team to develop projects that are forward-thinking, sustainable, and centered on people.
At the heart of ELIA’s philosophy is the belief that design has the power to improve lives. Through collective intelligence, innovation, and a commitment to excellence, ELIA challenges conventions and creates spaces that enrich communities while anticipating the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow.
