Meet the people behind the place - The Yumi House

Sometimes, you come across a place that just feels right—where tranquility, nature, and architecture blend perfectly. For Adrian and Gidi, that’s exactly what happened when they found their dream home in Spain. With their creative background and passion for craftsmanship and design, they transformed this house into a unique, atmospheric retreat where nature and comfort exist in perfect harmony.

In this interview, they openly share their journey of searching for the perfect location, the challenges of renovating and furnishing, and the special moments that make this home so dear to them. From sunny mornings with a cup of coffee to long summer evenings by the pool, this is a place where you can truly escape everyday life.

Curious to learn more about the story behind this extraordinary holiday home? Read on and discover how a dream became reality.

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

We are a family of four people and one happy dog. We are Adrian (37) & Gidi (39) and we have two daughters, Ella (12) & Loulou (6). Our dog Zumi is two. We call the east side of central Amsterdam home, in a quiet neighbourhood near the zoo.

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

In our daily lives, we run a creative studio together in the heart of Amsterdam. Most of our work is for international clients, and our projects have a strong focus craftsmanship, especially paper. It keeps us very busy, constantly switching between different ideas and challenges, which we like doing, this way it's never boring.

Beyond work, I guess adventure and discovering new things is what really drives us as a family. We just can’t sit still on holiday. We always want to explore, experience new things, and go somewhere that makes us excited. The more unfamiliar, the better. I guess we’re not the typical ‘family holiday’ type, but that’s just who we are. We love opening our minds, stepping into the unknown, and soaking up the beauty of nature during our trips.

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

Over the years, our dream of having a place outside the Netherlands kept growing. Work is such a big part of our daily lives, especially since we work together, and it can be quite intense. More and more, we felt the need for a place where we could escape, where simply doing nothing would be enough. A place to consciously be together and live more in the moment, something that can be challenging in our busy lives in Amsterdam.

We were fortunate to be in a position to make this dream a reality, so we started searching. During the pandemic, we first looked near Barcelona, where we found a house we loved. But it was a huge project, and after a period of research, we realised it was too much for us at the time. In 2022, a road trip through California reignited our dream. Staying in an incredible house in Joshua Tree, run by a couple who had created something truly special, inspired us to start looking again. From the start, we knew exactly what we wanted: a home surrounded by nature, in a peaceful rural setting with no close neighbours. It had to have long, open views and be close to the mountains, with trails starting right from the front door. At the same time, we did not want to feel too remote, so being within a 20-minute drive from the sea was important to us. The land had to feel natural and open, not overly steep or terraced, and a pool—or at least the possibility of building one—was a must. Most of all, the house needed character, or at least the potential to create it.

Finding a property that met all these criteria proved incredibly difficult. We looked in Cabo de Gata, drawn to its desert-like landscape, but the houses we liked turned out to be too complicated. Then we turned to Mallorca, where we searched extensively, but ultimately, we chose the north of Costa Blanca. Each failed attempt made us wiser, more knowledgeable about the tricky Spanish market, and even clearer on what we truly wanted. When we first saw this house online, we loved it but assumed there had to be a catch. It looked amazing. Within days, my husband flew to Spain to see it. He viewed other houses as well, but this one stood out by far.

It was a rare find, newly built yet deeply rooted in traditional architecture. The lime plaster facade, wooden details, and thoughtful design struck us immediately. But what truly set it apart were the incredible, uninterrupted views stretching far into the distance. The feeling of being surrounded by nature was exactly what we had been searching for, yet at the same time, we had easy access to the stunning coves of Benissa, the Jalon Valley wine route, and the Bernia mountain range. Even better, there was a restaurant within walking distance, adding to the balance of seclusion and convenience. The comfort of modern insulation, floor heating, and larger windows only made it more special. The idea that, aside from interior styling and minor renovations, it was ready to enjoy was an added bonus. It truly ticked all the boxes.

Looking back, we are so happy that the previous attempts did not work out. Each step led us to this place, and now we cannot imagine having ended up anywhere else.

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

We were very lucky with this house, as it was a newly built home that came on the market just as it was completed. However, the interior was quite basic and did not reflect the style we envisioned for our dream home.

We decided to renovate all the bathrooms and the kitchen, repaint the bedrooms, and introduce plenty of art to make the house feel special and unique. Many properties in the area have nearly identical interiors, so we focused on adding an extra layer of character to make ours stand out as a more exclusive home. Every piece of furniture was carefully selected, and we even designed our own seating and bathroom furniture to perfectly align with the house’s aesthetic. It was important for us to respect the ideology of the house, using as many local materials as possible. We worked exclusively with local stone and wood, and wherever possible, we sourced furniture from local artisans.

The garden was another key focus. When we bought the house, there was hardly any landscaping, which made designing a cohesive outdoor space quite a challenge. We wanted a garden that felt like a natural extension of the surrounding landscape rather than something artificially placed. Instead of tropical plants, we chose drought-tolerant species and native trees that naturally thrive in this environment. The result is a garden that blends seamlessly with the rural setting, reinforcing the connection between the house and the land around it.

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

I think one of the biggest personal feelings I have with this house is that this house is something we manifested to become a reailty one day. It reminds me that it is truly possible to chase a dream and that in reailty it is even more beautiful that I ever could have envisioned. It makes me feel so grateful that we could actually make it a reality, which reminds me that we can't take things for granted. So it's more the feeling on a conscious level that makes this house so special for me. The first summer we stayed here was amazing, because for the first time we stayed in a different country as a family for a longer period. It was special because we really started to feel more home during the summer. And I think the most special was that every time we went to the beach, visit a village, went out for lunch or dinner. That feeling we got every time we turned around the corner to drive on our land felt like a dream and a deep breath or sigh of joy, it was just so beautiful every time we came back.

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

We aimed to create an atmosphere that feels sophisticated, timeless, and distinctly Mediterranean, with unique elements that elevate the house and encourage a slower pace of living. A place where you can truly escape daily life and a home that makes you feel present in the moment. One of the things we loved most was giving each bedroom its own distinct look, with a unique color palette inspired by the surrounding nature. It feels as if elements from outside are brought in, creating a harmonious whole. We used natural materials, lime wash paints, soft linens, and carefully selected artwork to enhance the sense of calm and connection to the environment. The design respects the traditional architecture and blends seamlessly with the landscape, yet it is also infused with inspiration from our travels and our work as designers.

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

Ooh, that’s a tough one! One of my favourite spots is in the morning when the sun rises behind the hill. I love sitting by the entrance of the house, soaking up the sun with a cup of coffee in hand. In winter, it feels warm there, just the sun and the sound of birds chirping. It’s the perfect way to start the day. The property and land are so diverse, with so much to explore. I can’t wait to take in the view from our viewpoint next to the pool at sunset since it’s just finished. And of course, spending time around the pool, enjoying the beautiful surroundings, and making memories with friends and family is something I always look forward to!

What makes the location where your accommodation is located unique and special?

One of the things we really wanted in a holiday home was a sense of privacy, somewhere surrounded by nature but still close to everything. And with this house, I think we nailed it. The view is absolutely breathtaking, and it is the reason we fell in love with it in the first place. It feels secluded and peaceful, yet the nearest village is just two minutes away. If you are in the mood for some activity, a short drive takes you right back into the buzz. Whether you feel like heading to the beach or going for a hike in nature, you are perfectly positioned for both. We wanted a place that truly lets you escape while still having everything within easy reach, and that is exactly what this house offers.

Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly applications associated with your property that you are proud of?

Yes, we are really happy that this house came with a large solar system, one of the most modern wastewater systems, and an underground tank that collects rainwater for the garden. In Spain, features like proper insulation and energy-efficient heating are still quite rare. Many houses rely on small heaters or only use air conditioning for warmth, which is not very efficient. Our house, however, is very well insulated, making it much more comfortable in winter. We have a heat pump and a floor heating system, which makes a huge difference on colder days. The house runs almost entirely on solar power, something we are very proud of.

What motivated or inspired you to rent your property to guests?

Unfortunately, we can't be there full-time, and it feels like such a shame to leave it empty. It is such a beautiful place to stay, and we love sharing that experience with others. We both really enjoy the hospitality side of things. Creating a welcoming space and making sure people have a wonderful time gives us so much energy and joy.

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

When you arrive at the house, one of the first things you might notice is a sense of clarity. Just looking at the view seems to clear the mind, making you feel more present and at ease. The house accommodates up to eight people, but with all the different sitting areas, the pool, the bedrooms, and the Riu Rau, there is plenty of space for everyone to enjoy their own moment of peace. Life moves a little slower here, and that is exactly how it should be. Start your morning with breakfast in the Riu Rau on a warm day, or take a short hike to the top of the hill next to the house. After that, go for a swim or settle down with a good book. There is a perfect spot next to the pool for a long, lazy lunch, soaking up the Mediterranean atmosphere in the shade of a big wild olive tree. Take a nap, catch up on some work, and when the heat of the day softens, hop in the car and drive to one of the beautiful coves nearby. End the day with a refreshing swim, a drink, and some tapas, and maybe even enjoy some live music at a local bar.

In what ways does your property stand out from others? What unique features or characteristics make it a one-of-a-kind experience for guests?

A lot of houses in this area follow the same style, with similar "Ibiza-style" interiors. But we wanted something different, a home that feels personal, full of warmth, and deeply connected to nature. It was also important for us not to end up in "the sea of villas," where houses are built row after row in the more populated areas closer to the coast. We were looking for something more secluded, more private, something truly special. This house has this it-factor for us. We have put a lot of love into this place, using color and natural materials to bring the outdoors in. One of the things that makes the house truly special is the view. There are not many places around with a view like this. Every sunset is different, and it never gets old.

The house feels private and secluded, yet welcoming and comfortable. We have paid special attention to the bedrooms, giving each its own unique atmosphere, inspired by the surrounding landscape. Our goal is to offer a retreat in nature, a place where families and friends can slow down, recharge, and fully enjoy their time together.

Can you share the best compliment you've received from a guest?

That people don’t want to leave. Every time someone visits for the first time, their initial reaction is a heartfelt WOW and honestly, that is the best compliment we could ask for. Those moments remind us just how special this place is, and it makes us really happy to share it with others.

What do you hope guests will take away or remember most from their stay in your accommodation?

That the place feels special, a setting that adds something extra to their stay. The house stands out with its wide, open views, and we hope the sense of calm people feel when taking it all in becomes a lasting memory. More than anything, we love knowing that the house has helped make their holiday even more special, a place where they felt at home, relaxed, and completely welcome.

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

If you enjoy walking, we highly recommend starting your day with an early hike around the house. There are trails that begin just a few meters from the property, offering a peaceful and refreshing way to wake up with nature.

The area is also home to some stunning beaches that are well worth a visit. Even in winter, a walk to one of the more secluded coves is a great experience. Pack some sandwiches and a drink, and enjoy a quiet lunch with hardly anyone around—sometimes even with the beach all to yourself. For those who love hiking, there are plenty of trails to explore, each offering a different perspective of the beautiful surroundings.

If you are more into wine, there is a fantastic vineyard just five minutes away by car. It has won awards for the best organic wine in Spain, and the way they cultivate their grapes is truly fascinating. A wine tour there is a great way to spend an afternoon, learning about their process while tasting some incredible wines.