The Power Couple: Stef and Martin, The Creative Forces Behind Maui’s Own, Patina Interior Design

Behind the stunning interiors created by Patina Interior Design is Stefanie Gastaldi, the owner and creative force dedicated to bringing every client’s dream space to life—while also creating and living the most vibrant life with her family. 

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It all started in 2008 when Stefanie attended design school in Honolulu. She swiftly fell in love with the spirit of Aloha, the local culture, and the lush, sweeping vistas of Hawaii and, after graduating, she made the decision not to return to the East Coast. Instead, she's called these islands home ever since. 

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As a Maui interior designer, Stefanie draws much of her inspiration from the fluidity and harmony of the ocean and landscape, which comes through in the design and construction of their projects. In those early years, she was involved in various design projects on both Oahu and Maui before finally relaunching her company as Patina Interior Design in Wailuku on Maui, in 2016. 

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There to add the perfect balance to Stef’s creative side is her husband, Martin. A diverse businessman who’s lived in Maui for over 22 years, Martin contributes his ideas to all kinds of businesses to help them thrive: from those in the tourist industry to those handling residential electrical work, and just about everyone in between. And most importantly, he brings his expertise of construction practices and logistics to their Maui interior design studio, ensuring a seamless execution of every project that comes through the doors.

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But behind their days creating inspired spaces for their clients is a rich and dynamic family life. When this team isn’t busy handling the particulars of lighting design, sourcing luxury home furnishings in Maui, or mapping out floor plans, chances are you’ll find them along with their 4 children — two boys and two girls from 7 to 15 years old — spending every free moment they have in the Pacific Ocean, soaking up the salt water and sunshine. From fishing and surfing, to paddling and body surfing, or in Martin’s case, assisting with water safety for island events, they’re a true ocean-loving family.

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This beautiful, blended family of 6 appreciates activities on dry land too, spending time hitting the slopes to snowboard, running to soccer matches, traveling all over the world, and exploring art galleries. Though Stef and Martin will tell you that their true love is outrigger canoe paddling. They’re active members of the Lae’ula O Kai Canoe Club in Maui, and Martin’s been paddling for over 20 years now while Stef’s become a more active paddler in the last couple of years. They can’t imagine anything quite as exhilarating as getting out on the water and working together as a team. It’s unlike anything else.

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Along with fostering in their children the importance of an active lifestyle, Stefanie and Martin are also passionate about exposing their family to all kinds of art, culture, and architecture that might not be prevalent on the islands—all while still cherishing their island home. 

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Martin hails from the vibrant city of Buenos Aires, Argentina, and his upbringing has instilled in him a deep appreciation for culture and cuisine, while Stefanie's heritage is a rich blend of Greek, Irish, and English, with half of her family residing overseas in Greece, France, and Belgium. The family recently embarked on a memorable journey to southwest Argentina and Buenos Aires in March of 2024. It was a kaleidoscope of beautiful experiences that left their entire family feeling both wildly fulfilled and eager for the next family adventure! And so despite living on an island, their lives are still very much enriched by diverse cultures and language.

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At Patina Interior Design, you’ll find an experience that takes interior design even further. Stefanie and Martin’s love for nature and their cultural appreciation for both Maui and beyond translates to all aspects of their work. Their unique perspectives and deep connection to the islands allow them to create spaces that are as captivating and layered as the rhythms of the ocean that they hold so dear.

If that’s the kind of space you’re envisioning, get in touch with the Patina Interior Design team today!

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