When envisioning a space, which colors instinctively lead your palette?
Unlike many interior designers who tend to design every project the same style, I design my interior projects for the client and their personalities and needs. So it’s not necessarily a specific colour palette that comes to mind at first. It’s more so the colours of the client’s personality. I always want the client to come home to a space where they feel safe and relaxed after long hard days of work. At the same time, I take them on a journey, introducing them to items, interiors, and experiences which they didn’t realise were missing in their home life. I want to create a wow factor whether it’s crazy and bold, or more subtle and safe. Either way, it should be inspiring, unexpected, and not like other people’s spaces.
What’s the most unexpected commission that’s come through your studio doors?
I have had many unexpected commissions, however the one that tops it all must be designing and creating the whole throne and platform that Madonna was carried in on when she performed at the half time show at Super Bowl.
Are there pieces you’ve created that you now wish had stayed in your own collection?
The Madonna throne! Hahah! I was supposed to get it back but have not seen it since it went! Would have been a nice retirement! HAHAHa! Joke aside . . . I have created thousands of pieces and never really get emotionally attached to my work. Having said that, there are of course some items I love more than others of course 🙂
What atmosphere (music, mood, light) enhances your creative rhythm?
When it comes to music I just put on different radio channels so it’s a different mix of stuff in the background. If the commission is exciting, then that is usually extra adrenaline for me. And with most of our pieces, I always try to get the client their own version even if it’s just changing a few small details, and often I get to see the space so that I can recommend what I believe would be an amazing fit for their space. The most important thing for me is for the client to be thrilled with the piece and for it to work as well as possible. So wherever I can, help with my input to make it extra special.
If you could design for any historic or contemporary figure, who would sit atop that throne?
Ooooh . . . I am sure there are many many to choose from . . . but David Bowie would be very cool to work with. I luckily had the chance to meet with him about 22 years ago when I was working at a boutique hotel in London, and he was a guest. He was very cool and kind!
What’s your best advice for someone just starting out, and eager to break into the design world?
Find your niche. Absorb everything around you. Study whatever needs studying, and dont think everything gonna be handed to you just like that. If it’s something you really want, make sure you get at least all the base work done first, and then become an intern working for free and learn . . . in several companies. Try to find your own style, understand the trade and its commercial aspects, and if there is a market for it. Don’t copy others, be inspired, and develop. And the most important thing, have fun!
