Ibiza Dreamer: Daniele Mancinetti

For Daniele Mancinetti, Ibiza wasn’t just a destination; it was a revelation.

Originally from Rome, he spent years in London before the island presented him with something far greater than a job opportunity. It became the place where he would redefine his creative path. As the Creative Director and founder of Ibiza Design Collective, he has seamlessly woven himself into the island’s aesthetic, creating interiors that feel as though they have been whispered by Ibiza itself.

I first discovered Ibiza when I was offered a job here last June. Ironically, despite my uncle owning a house on the island for years and my parents and grandparents visiting countless times over the decades, I had never made it here myself until now.

My decision to move to Ibiza was as much about lifestyle as it was about the job opportunity. I had grown weary of life in London, so the chance to relocate couldn’t have come at a better time.

My first impression of Ibiza? Pure heaven. The landscapes, the colours of the sea, the unspoilt nature. Coming from a place of endless rain and grey skies, it felt like stepping into paradise.

The moment I touched down, my first thought was, I’m home. There was an instant and unshakable feeling of belonging, as if I had been here forever, completely in tune with the island and its natural rhythm.

Ibiza has completely transformed my life. I initially moved here to work as Interior Design Director at Sabina, a major villa development, but the island quickly made me realise that my creative potential extended far beyond working within a development company. Being here gave me the courage to establish my own interior design studio, Ibiza Design Collective, and truly make my mark on the island through my work and designs. In many ways, Ibiza didn’t just influence my path; it completely reshaped it.

Beyond the many designs I have worked on while living here, each shaped by the island’s colours, textures, and emotions, I would say the project I’m currently working on is the first that feels entirely ‘Ibiza-coded’. It is a stunning villa in Cala Tarida, where the colours, materials, and textures feel as though they have been whispered by the island itself. It is also particularly special to me, as it is the first project I am undertaking independently under Ibiza Design Collective, my new Ibicenco design studio.

One of the things that truly stands out to me is Ibiza’s incredible craftsmanship. From woven baskets and handcrafted furniture to intricate ironwork, the island is full of unique, artisanal pieces waiting to be discovered. I have also been struck by the thriving art community. Through my work with the ladies at Vaitiare Smith, I have been introduced to some incredible local artists I might never have come across otherwise. As a passionate (and admittedly amateur) art collector, I love the thrill of discovering new talent and one-of-a-kind works that capture the essence of the island.

Without a doubt, Cala d’Hort is the most inspiring place for me. Watching the sunset from the pebble beach near the old fishing huts, with Es Vedrà rising majestically in front of you, is pure magic, especially in early autumn. It is a place that holds some of my most incredible memories on the island.

Living in Ibiza has shown me the incredible sense of community that exists here, something unlike anywhere else I have lived. People are open, supportive, and always willing to help. Maybe it is because so many of us are ‘adopted children’ of this beautiful island, but there is a real sense of looking out for one another. Coming from London, where that kind of closeness is rare, it is something I truly appreciate.

Ibiza has given me a profound sense of homecoming, and it is mostly thanks to the incredible people I have met here. There is a warmth and openness on the island that makes you feel truly welcome. When I look out at the sea from my house, there is an overwhelming sense of peace and belonging, as if this is exactly where I am meant to be.

There are certain scents and sounds in Ibiza that evoke a deep emotional connection for me. The scent of rosemary is something I am completely obsessed with. Every time I go on a hike, a passion I discovered since moving to the island, I find myself instinctively brushing my hands against nearly every rosemary plant I pass. My friends always laugh at how often I do it, but I love carrying that fragrance with me. I even tuck a sprig behind my ear or in my shirt pocket. It reminds me of home in Italy.

Then there is the sound of the waves from my garden. It brings me an immense sense of calm and belonging. It has become such a fundamental part of my daily life that I honestly cannot imagine living without it now.

Leaving Ibiza always feels like flipping a switch between ‘Ibiza Dan’ and ‘City Dan’. I have always loved travelling, but for the first time, I find myself even more excited to return than to leave. No matter where I go, Ibiza Dan wins every time!