You have won awards including The House and Garden Pineapple Award for hotel design. How do these milestones influence the company’s reputation and direction?
‘Receiving an honorary award like your Pineapple Achievement Award is a great recognition not only for me, but for the entire team. It is a confidence boost for our customers and us and reinforces our philosophy to pursue and explore new ideas.’
For someone starting interior design today, what practical steps would you recommend over the next five years?
‘I would recommend embracing a wider spectrum of design, not just interiors. This approach has been a great asset to me. Also gain some experience by volunteering on a project. Attend workshops, connect with peers and mentors and don’t limit yourself, there are many paths into design.’
What qualities do you value most in junior designers joining your team?
‘In junior designers, I value openness, curiosity, hunger for knowledge and ego. A balance of creativity and practicality, and not afraid to roll up their sleeves. I don’t like titles, we are all designers.’
Often, young designers don’t have large portfolios – what are some ways they can develop their eye?
‘Developing an eye for design is about observation and curiosity. Drawing trains your eye to see detail. Visit museums, galleries and historic interiors. I often borrow and renew ideas from the past. People—watch and absorb the world around you.’
What do you wish more young interior designers knew about the day-to-day reality of working in the industry?
‘I wish more young designers knew how to just pick up the phone and talk to people. It’s about understanding needs, solving problems, building relationships and gathering insights. It is a two-way street; This is how you build trust together. It’s also important to be humble, don’t get caught up in the idea of ’designer’, it’s a team sport.’
