An Inspired Chat with Natalie Rodriguez

We recently had the chance to connect with Natalie Rodriguez and have shared our conversation below.

Natalie, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
One of the most common misconceptions about our business is that it is purely glamorous. While there are certainly moments of beauty and luxury, my role as a designer for VVIP private aircraft is really about understanding how people live, travel, and experience comfort. From destinations and materials to the small conveniences that make life easier, having knowledge of these details allows us to create environments that feel seamless and refined for our Clients.

However, what is less visible is the demanding, behind-the-scenes work that goes into each project. We pour our heart and soul into creating the most premium experience possible for our Clients, which requires long hours of focus, meticulous attention to detail, and constant adaptability. Preparing presentation materials in record time, ensuring every stakeholder is aligned, being available to travel with little notice, and maintaining absolute discretion are all part of what we do. It is a challenging process that requires stamina and resilience, but one that is deeply rewarding and energizing because of the trust our Clients place in us.

Because of the confidential nature of our projects, we rarely share the challenges or the process – even something as simple as revealing a color palette could compromise a Client’s privacy. What the world often sees are the polished results, but what they don’t see is the unwavering dedication, resilience, and love that fuel every detail behind those results. Luxury is indeed our language, but it is also our labor.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Natalie Rodríguez, Founder and Principal of Natalie Rodríguez Luxury Design, a globally recognized luxury design practice specializing in bespoke private aircraft interiors. With a focus on Boeing and Airbus platforms, we create tailored environments for Heads of State, Ultra-High-Net-Worth Clientele, Private and Corporate operators, always with the goal of delivering interiors that are as refined as they are functional.

My career began in the VVIP completions sector, where I designed for leading completion centers before establishing my own practice. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of designing for a wide range of Clients – from global leaders to private individuals – each with distinct cultures, aesthetics, and missions. This diversity has shaped my approach into one that is deeply Client-centric, rooted in storytelling, discretion, and detail.

Now in our third year as an independent design practice, we are proud to be an approved design partner with Boeing Business Jets. Most recently, we introduced SOLRISE, a BBJ 787-8 concept that reimagines the cabin as a sanctuary of light, clarity, and understated glamour. It’s a reflection of where we see the future of luxury aviation heading – purposeful, serene, and experiential.

While we remain mindful of the confidentiality of our Clients and projects, what excites me most is the opportunity to continue shaping interiors that not only elevate the private aviation experience but also set new benchmarks for design in this space. It’s an incredible journey, and we feel we’re just getting started.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationships that have most shaped how I see myself are those with my parents and my sister. My parents have always been my biggest supporters – they’ve always believed in me from the very beginning, encouraging my creativity and nurturing the areas where I naturally thrived, from the performing arts to the visual arts. My parents always gave me the room and freedom to pursue my dreams, and that has been invaluable in how I grew up. My sister and I share that same spirit of support for one another, and I honestly don’t know where I would be without the encouragement and love of my family.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: “Don’t worry and don’t be afraid – everything is going to be okay. This season is only temporary. Keep praying, keep your faith, and keep going. You’ll get where you’re going.”

My younger self was incredibly ambitious and driven and she knew exactly what she wanted to do and where she wanted to go. And at the same time, I remember her being discouraged with life’s setbacks, especially at times when her dream of designing aircraft interiors felt impossible. What I know now is that life brings challenges for everyone – whether it’s job changes, financial hardships, or adjusting to new places and people. These things don’t mean you’re failing; they’re shaping you. They build the strength and perspective needed for the next chapter, even if it’s hard to see in the moment.

I would remind my younger self that setbacks are part of her story and the process, not the end of the story. And that the big dreams she worried might never come true were always worth holding on to.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What important truth do very few people agree with you on?
An important truth that shapes my life is that my faith in Christ Jesus is the foundation of who I am. The world around us is constantly changing, and people – myself included – are imperfect. But my faith reminds me that God never changes, and that has always been my source of strength, peace, and direction through life’s challenges.

While many of our Clients and Colleagues come from different cultures and faith traditions, my own faith is what steadies me and gives me the perspective to serve others with love, respect, and excellence. I give all credit to God for the opportunities I’ve been given and the beautiful things in my life.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
One thing I’ve come to understand deeply – though I think we all grasp it in different ways – is the importance of empathy and truly seeing people for who they are. Beyond surface-level interactions, it’s about understanding their story, their dreams, desires, what makes them smile, what inspires them, and even what weighs on their heart. I believe that genuinely caring for people is often what’s missing, not only in business but in daily life.

In a world where we’re constantly distracted by our phones, notifications, and things to do, it’s easy to forget that what people crave most is real human connection. As time progresses this connection I feel will become even more precious. To me, preserving our ability to feel deeply, even when it’s uncomfortable, is essential. It’s a reminder that we are alive, our heart is beating and we are fully human, which is so beautiful in itself.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.natalierodriguez.design
• Instagram: @natalierdzzz
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-rodr%C3%ADguez-luxury-design/