VOLUME 14
Patchwork Mirror Series
info@lushbaytor.com / lushbaytor.com
C R A FT IN G
T IM E L E S S ELEGANCE AERISTO has been actively running its AeristoCraft division since 2010, specializing in crafting custom solutions for bespoke interior applications. We offer decorative seat inserts and side panel leather quilting, which have gained significant popularity among designers seeking to elevate interior aesthetics. Additionally, we provide a range of services including personalized leather perforation, embossing, debossing, laser etching, embroidery, leather splitting, skiving, and tailored pattern cutting programs.
www.aeristo.com | info@aeristo.com | +1 (817) 624 8400
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EDITORIAL M2ATELIER
20 FILIPÃO NUNES ARQUITECTOS 26 POGGENPOHL WIGMORE 32 WITHIN175 38 FREESTREAM 44 AVID INTERIOR DESIGN INC. 50 KENNETH USSENKO DESIGN 56 JET AVIATION 62 ALISON HENRY DESIGN LTD 68 BUTHHAINA HUMAIDY INTERIORS 74 DAEDALUS YACHTS 80 LEIVARS INTERIORS STUDIO 86 FALCON TENDERS LTD 92 TRENZSEATER 98
ROBERT ANGELL DESIGN INTERNATIONAL
Finest quality of classic and contemporary lighting to complement any interior
EST. 1995 LONDON | DUBAI +4 4 (0) 20 7 3 51 0 8 6 3 | s ale s @ chr is topher hyde.com | w w w.chr is topher hyde.com
STAFF PUBLISHER Joanne Beedles DIGITAL PUBLISHER Richard Stockton SENIOR PUBLISHING MANAGER Caroline O’Gorman GROUP DESIGN AWARDS MANAGER Glenn Hughes EDITORIAL MANAGER Natalie Cowley PA TO THE PUBLISHER Ellen Woolf SECOND PA TO THE PUBLISHER Fleur Garside SENIOR EDITORIAL RESEARCHER Isobella Lichfield SENIOR AWARDS COORDINATOR Ella Hibbert SENIOR AWARDS COORDINATOR Laurine Lalande AWARDS COORDINATOR Victoria Baker AWARDS COORDINATOR Megan Fisher AWARDS COORDINATOR Alexander Stephens AWARDS COORDINATOR Jonathan Thomas GRAPHIC DESIGN Christian Thomas ACCOUNTS Anthony Taylor, Paul Jones PR CONSULTANT Catherine Lyne FOR ALL ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CALL: +44(0)1244 346 347 OR EMAIL special.publications@design-et-al.com design et al, Watergate House, Chester CH1 2LF Annual subscriptions vary by location, please contact subscriptions@design-et-al.com stating your full address for a subscription quote. ISSN 1750-8851
D ECO R AT I V E L I G H T IN G S O LU T I O N S COMMERCIAL | RE SIDENTIAL | HOSPITALIT Y | PROJEC T DE SIGNS
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As we draw towards the end of the year, it is time for us to once again step into the minds of designers across all areas of design - those working at the pinnacle of their field, those who truly are The World’s Leading Design Names. Our aim is to bring together a broad and diverse group of people, with differing perspectives and philosophies to talk about their work, their hopes, aspirations and ideals. It is always interesting, as publishers, to speak directly to designers and hear their thoughts on design and, perhaps most importantly, their vision for the future; there are exciting times ahead for the world of design, and here at design et al we will be announcing our plans to support designers in the year ahead based on these conversations. Next month, we will be publishing Style Bible, another of our annual design books which we hope you will love just as much as this one.
JOSEPH GILES Exquisite Functionalism
Desirable hardware for doors, windows and cabinets; designed and manufactured in Britain. hello@josephgiles.com
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The World’s Leading Desig
CORE: New York Photography by: Adrian Gaut
GiorgeD_SKIRT_stool_design by m2atelier Photography by Federico Cedrone
Velasca Apartment, Milano Photography by: Lorenzo Penna9 Styling: Cristina Nava
CONRAD C144 ACE interior design project by m2atelier Photography: Tom Van Oossanen
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CONRAD C144 ACE interior design project by m2atelier Photography: Lorenzo Pennati
MARCO BONELLI & MARIJANA RADOVIC PRINCIPAL FOUNDERS & ARCHITECTS M2ATELIER Marco Bonelli and Marijana Radovic, a couple in life and work, founded m2atelier in Milan. An international architecture and design studio born from the fusion of the two founders’ previous activities, the atelier brings together complementary experiences, cosmopolitan perspectives and multidisciplinary categories. The perimeter of its research is very broad and embraces different scales and contexts: architecture, interior design, fashion retail and product, with a distinct predilection for yachting. The numerous and consolidated collaborations with some of the main global players in their respective fields, together with a long list of extremely significant projects and clients located everywhere on the planisphere, make m2atelier an authoritative signature on the international design and architecture scene.
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Please explain a little of your career journey to get to this point. I graduated with laude at Architecture University of Genoa and took a master’s degree at Columbia University in New York. Soon after graduating, I moved to Paris where I worked as product designer with Philippe Starck, experimenting the dynamics of industrial products. In Barcelona I developed urban and residential projects at Ricardo Bofill’s RBTA. In 1996 I settled in New York where, after my master’s degree at Columbia, I collaborated with Steven Holl’s team for the Maxxi Museum competition in Rome and worked with Gaetano Pesce, thus learning to explore materials and their unexpressed potential. I later joined Gabellini Sheppard Associates, acquiring great expertise in the field of fashion retail, design and high-end residential. In 2000 I founded BAM design with offices in New York and Milan, specialising in bespoke projects for some of the most prestigious fashion brands including: Salvatore Ferragamo, Gianfranco Ferré, Corneliani, Coccinelle, Meltin’Pot, Gruppo Burani, Galliano, Les Copains, Borbonese, Tom Ford and Dolce & Gabbana. I have a degree in architecture from the University of Belgrade and a master’s degree in yacht design from the Milan Polytechnic. Milan marked a true turning point in my professional career, as right there I selected yachting as my field of interest, thus keeping a special bond with the Lombard city forever. In 2005 I moved to Rome to work with the Lazzarini Pickering studio. Later, I headed for Geneva and then Athens for the shipowner Latsis. In the Hellenic capital, I oversaw the projects of the company’s most important shipyards from a managerial point of view. In 2006, I founded the Standby studio with offices in Belgrade and Athens. In 2009, I returned to Milan to deepen my research and collaborations around yachting projects, broadening my perspective towards residential, product and aeronautical design. In 2011 Marco and Marijana became partners in work and life founding together the m2atelier studio. This was not a goal either of us had envisioned, it just happened through opportunities, so growing the studio as we have is a dream. What is your one recommendation for 2024? In 2024, our one recommendation is to embrace the concept of Sustainable Minimalism. In general, people have become more environmentally conscious and aware of their surroundings, with a greater willingness to adopt planet-friendly practices. The pandemic has shifted people’s outlook, leading clients to organise themselves in more homely environments. Sustainable Minimalism entails pursuing the essential in all creative processes, materials, human resources, energy, and logistics. It involves a rigorous creative system and efficient output, with a perfectly functioning strategy at every stage of the project. This approach allows for minimising waste and promoting conscious and sustainable architecture and design, and it is not just a trend for 2024 but a lasting principle. What are your currently working on? We are currently engaged in a diverse portfolio of international projects, encompassing numerous residential developments in the United States and Europe, as well as a range of yachts situated in Holland, Italy, France, Germany, and Poland. One of our noteworthy projects includes ORA, a 78-story building, in the heart of one of the most vibrant districts of downtown Miami, overlooking the sea. The tower will
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feature residences, new restaurants and bakery concepts, common areas with pool and activities, managed by the hospitality brand Casa Tua. Our interior, inspired by an ideal of barefoot daily life, embrace with the refined simplicity of a warm and convivial atmosphere, conveying the feeling of being at home away from home. Furthermore, we have been entrusted with the design of the new headquarters for CORE Club in New York, situated at the historic address of 711, 5th Avenue. Our goal was to cater to all aspects of daily life, crafting distinctive environments and atmospheres that foster connections and commitment while preserving a sense of freedom and independence. Spanning four floors from the 18th to the 15th at 711 5th Avenue, the new CORE New York headquarters encompasses over 5,500 square meters, complete with almost six hundred square meters of outdoor terraces that provide awe-inspiring views of Manhattan’s iconic skyline. In addition to our work on the New York location, we are designing the interiors for CORE Milano, the club’s first European headquarters, and CORE: San Francisco, a forthcoming venture, which occupies three floors of the Transamerica Pyramida. Tell us a little more about yourself: where you live, what you like to do, how to you relax? Our headquarters in Milan dissolves the boundaries between private and public life, between home and work, offering a seamless blend of design experience and life plans. It is a pulsating environment where the connections nurture ideas and projects. Milan has become our city thanks to its cosmopolitan soul, made up of art, history, culture, design and fashion, today it is the perfect location to develop our work. In addition to the international relationships that we can strengthen here, we find skills related to materials and workmanship of the territory that are characteristic of Made in Italy talent. Being architects, we could not think of a better place to create roots: the city reserves an ecosystem, full of so many stimuli that nourish our desire for creativity and our projects, continually surprising us. While offering a great respect for traditions, it is also a city projected into the future, reserving the dynamism and energy of great European centers, and the atmosphere and warmth of the neighborhood, which we live. We are happy for what it offers to our children and appreciate every day how close and easy everything is to reach. What are your aims and ambitions for the forthcoming year and beyond? Our primary objectives for the upcoming year and beyond are to sustain and further cultivate the accomplishments we have established at m2atelier. Our strategic focus is not geared toward expanding into a larger, multi-faceted organisation with a significant workforce. Instead, we prioritise a commitment to quality over quantity. We are content with our current scale and aspire to maintain a small and intimate operation that enables us to maintain close, personalised relationships with our valued clients. This approach affords us the capacity to provide our clients with undivided attention and a comprehensive understanding of their unique needs. Our diverse clientele allows us to delve into the individual psychology of each client, facilitating the anticipation and resolution of inquiries and concerns that may not have even been articulated yet.
ARCHITECTURE
RESIDENTIAL
YACHT
& LEISURE
& RETAIL
& DESIGN
www.m2atelier.com
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FILIPAO NUNES FOUNDER FILIPÃO NUNES ARQUITECTOS Filipao Nunes is a visionary architect of Portuguese origin with a diverse international journey in the world of design. His educational path led him from Porto, Portugal, to Valladolid, Spain, where he honed his architectural skills. Notably, while studying in Valladolid, he represented Spain in an international competition in Norway, setting the stage for a remarkable career. With a strong desire to explore new horizons, Filipao ventured to Mexico and worked with Agustín Landa Vertiz in San Pedro Garza García, Nuevo León. Subsequently, he co-founded Cota + Nunes, a successful partnership that spanned eight years. In 2016, Filipao established his eponymous studio, Filipao Nunes, focusing on a unique and diverse market encompassing nightclubs, bars, restaurants, and consumption centers, and expanding into mixed-use, hospitality, and residential projects since 2020. Filipao Nunes brings a wealth of international experience and a distinct design approach to every project he undertakes, making him a prominent figure in the world of contemporary architecture and interior design. The World’s Leading Design Names 23
cdmx, ma
What have you done previously? We have worked on various projects like Ilios Cancún, Ilios Tulum, Señora Tanaka Masaryk, and many other projects that we are proud of. Thanks to these opportunities and the results, we have reached where we are now. Please explain a little of your career journey to get to this point. I am a Portuguese architect, I studied in Porto, Portugal, and later in Valladolid, Spain. After fourteen years, I arrived in Monterrey, Mexico. Its people, its culture, and its history were extremely inspiring for me and boosted my creativity. I had the opportunity to work with Agustín Landa Vertiz for a year and a half, after that, I decided to start my own design studio, in which I was a partner for eight years with Oziel Contreras. Over time, I focused on developing my own style, and now I lead a multidisciplinary studio that I consider an extension of my home. In this space, more than 50 young professionals from different specialties share a common vision: to create sensory experiences in everything we design. Over the years, the studio’s focus has expanded, and now we work on projects that include restaurants, hospitality, largescale housing, and continue to seek new opportunities. What inspires you? Please explain in detail your creative process. My inspiration comes from great figures like Mies Van Der Rohe, my favorite architect. Additionally, Lázaro Casas Violán is a source of inspiration with his ability to blend materials and his skill in all his projects. Lastly, but not least, Álvaro Siza and Souto Moura were my mentors and helped shape my design style. Each project gives me the opportunity to evolve, follow trends, and take different risks. Something that significantly contributes to my creative process is the inspiration I find in music, fashion, art, and contemporary architecture.
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Where do you currently work from and what is your creative working environment? Currently, my studio is located in the state of Nuevo León, Mexico. However, this does not limit us, as we work on both national and international projects. The atmosphere I aim to create and convey to my team is one of respect, passion, and commitment to our projects and clients. Where do you feel design is moving in a directional sense, in your sector? I feel that the revival trend is still incredibly strong, and that there is an eclectic vibe that has been growing and will be here for many years to come. Furthermore, I believe that mixing antique accents with technology is really interesting in every design. What is your one recommendation for 2024? Always keeping curiosity as an important and fundamental part of evolution, both in design and in our personal and work experience, as it involves questioning and not taking anything for granted. This helps us stay grounded, be open to new ideas and approaches, which in turn allows us to create, grow, and achieve great results. What are your aims and ambitions for the forthcoming year and beyond? They say... if your dreams don’t scare you, they’re not big enough! Currently, the studio has a presence in Portugal, Spain, the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. In the near future, we plan to strengthen the studio in the United States and Europe, and for Mexico, we are considering the growth and scale of projects with a focus on the hospitality sector. I envision the studio in 2026 as a global studio with challenging projects in different parts of the world and international collaborations with colleagues we respect and who inspire us.
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グリルハウス グリルハウス グリルハウス グリルハウス
señora tanaka
señora tanaka señora tanaka
señora tanaka
cdmx, masaryk.
cdmx, masaryk. cdmx, masaryk. cdmx, masaryk.
www.filipaonunes.com @filipaonunes info@filipaonunes.com
www.filipaonunes.com www.filipaonunes.com www.filipaonunes.com @filipaonunes @filipaonunes @filipaonunes info@filipaonunes.com info@filipaonunes.com info@filipaonunes.com
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RICHARD ANDERSON STUDIO MANAGER / SENIOR DESIGNER POGGENPOHL WIGMORE Richard Anderson is a seasoned Studio Manager and Senior Designer at Poggenpohl Wigmore. With a remarkable career spanning 26 years in the KBB design industry, Richard’s journey has been characterized by the strong relationships he’s cultivated within the field. His passion for graphic design, coupled with a profound appreciation for architectural inspiration, has guided his creative process, transforming spaces into captivating environments. Richard’s work thrives on crafting kitchen living spaces that transcend trends, focusing on enduring designs with the finest finishes and materials. Based in the heart of London’s kitchen community, Richard is currently engaged in a series of stunning projects, relishing the daily challenge, and turning each one into a unique and special endeavour.
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Please explain your job role briefly: Studio Manager / Senior Designer What led you to pursue this career? From my school days I loved graphic design, I studied CAD and graphics at University. I have always had a passion for spaces which led me into the Kitchen Design sector. What have you done previously? I have been in the KBB design industry for 26 years. Working with Mid Market brands through to the Luxury Market I now find myself in. Please explain a little of your career journey to get to this point. My career has very much been led by the relationships I have created in the industry. Working my way into the luxury sector and then working towards being in a flagship location. What inspires you? Please explain in detail your creative process. Architecture is a huge inspiration to me. I look to design the space to emulate its environment. I love working with our Interior design partners to truly create inspiration spaces. Where do you currently work from and what is your creative working environment? I base myself in our London studio on Wigmore Street, in the mix of the kitchen community. Where do you feel design is moving in a directional sense, in your sector? We have for some time been moving into creating kitchen living spaces. This continues to grow and become even more so in our sector. With creating pieces of furniture, not just kitchens. To make the kitchen a statement. A piece of Art. We tend not to look at “trends” as such at the top end of the market and focus on design with some longevity, but what do you think our key trends/ideas or must haves for the coming year? We totally agree, we do not follow trends in design as a Poggenpohl kitchen can last decades and needs to remain current during these times. We do look at using the very best finishes and materials, working with partners to create amazing finishes.
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What is your one recommendation for 2024? We will see natural materials being used a lot more, this has been starting to transition through 2023 and will continue to do so into 2024 with the use of textures and finishes into these natural materials. What are you currently working on? We have some stunning projects running right now, using our Plusmodo Concept, showcase units, amazing light fittings from our lighting partner Bella Figura to emulate waves and open elements in a stunning ocean villa project. Does your work challenge you right now? Please explain a little more about this... Every day is a challenge. But in a good way. Every project has its own nuances, design challenges that make what we do so special. Tell us a little more about yourself: where you live, what you like to do, how do you relax? I am based in Buckinghamshire where we are very lucky to have some of the finest restaurants. This is where I relax with friends and family. Do you manage to achieve a work/life balance? If so, please tell us how you manage to achieve this. This is the biggest challenge... But when you love what you do it is an easy balance to achieve. What are your aims and ambitions for the forthcoming year and beyond? To continue creating exceptional kitchen designs with our clients. Every new project we start is a blank canvas to create... This has to be the continued ambition. Final thoughts, or anything else you would like to share with us? Creating designs into spaces that excite our clients, that make them want to be in the space, use the space. We all have targets in life and business but success is not always measured in figures! It helps...! But creating amazing spaces for clients is what is important and that is what gives you that feel-good.
Poggenpohl has 17 points of sale throughout the UK & Ireland · uk@poggenpohl.com For your nearest Poggenpohl Studio please go to www.poggenpohl.com
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ANAS ZABALAWI FOUNDER | HEAD OF DESIGN & PROJECTS WITHIN175 Anas Zabalawi is a visionary in the world of design, whose profound connection to life, nature, and global human interaction has fueled his creative spirit. He leads a nomadic lifestyle, finding inspiration everywhere, while boasting over 17 years of experience in interior design and contracting. Founder of WITHIN175 in Amman, Jordan, in 2011, Anas has established it as an elite design firm known across the Middle East, specializing in highend residential, hospitality, and commercial projects. He believes design goes beyond aesthetics, shaping our identity and infusing meaning into every facet of our lives, a philosophy balancing functionality and imagination, intricacy and grandeur.
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Please briefly explain your job role: Founder and Head of Design & Projects What led you to pursue this career: My passion for design is driven by my love for life, nature, and connecting with fellow human beings from around the globe. Accompanied by a drive to explore new cultures and a strong desire to discover life’s utmost secrets, I have adopted a nomadic lifestyle, believing that the best place to be is everywhere. Please explain a little of your career journey to get to this point: I have more than 20 years of experience in the interior design and contracting field. I founded WITHIN175 in 2011. Today, WITHIN175 has positioned itself as an elite design house with a recognisable reputation across the Middle East and the UK, delivering high-end residential, hospitality, and commercial projects. What inspires you? Please explain in detail your creative process: I find my passion for design rooted in my deep appreciation for life, the natural world, and my desire to engage with people from diverse corners of the world. With this vision in mind, I made the decision to take WITHIN175 into cosmopolitan cities, starting with Dubai in 2018 and into the world’s hub for designers and architects, London. Where do you currently work from and what is your creative working environment? Embracing a nomadic way of life, I firmly believe that the most ideal location can be found anywhere and everywhere. You can get your inspiration from exploring the art, the nature, the culture of each city you visit. And the more you explore, the more you will have valuable and timeless designs that will set high living standards. Where do you feel design is moving in a directional sense, in your sector? Sustainable and minimalistic designs in a luxury essence, blending practicality and luxury that serves the human needs and their health mentally and physically. Design is
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the most important tool to raise the bar of our development and flourishing as human beings, making our life easier, healthier, and showing our commitment towards our beautiful and rich planet. We tend not to look at “trends” as such at the top end of the market and focus on design with some longevity, but what do you think our key trends/ideas or must-haves for the coming year: Again, using sustainable and natural materials in a smart practical way, setting the high standard of modern living and connecting us to our mother nature. COVID did make everyone appreciate our planet more and lift our desire to connect back to our planet and surrounding nature, which is why I believe it is every designer and architect’s responsibility to always put sustainability first in each and every project, regardless of its scale, whether it is a residential, hospitality, education, medical, etc. What are you currently working on: I am currently involved in several projects. Firstly, I’m working on the design and construction of high-end residential properties, one of which is a luxurious mansion in Dubai. Additionally, I’m overseeing the creation of a sophisticated fine dining restaurant in Dubai. Furthermore, I’m engaged in designing and building high-end residential projects in London, including a luxurious residence in Chelsea. Lastly, I’m working on the development of commercial projects in both London and Dubai. Does your work challenge you right now? Please explain a little more about this: Challenge is always there, as I always challenge myself by thinking differently, creating unique exclusive design concepts for each and every project, creating new ways of production, fabrication, and installations. Having the desire to learn more, to explore more.
DUBAI | LONDON we create spaces that ages timelessly and elegantly within175.com
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SARAH MESPELT LARRANAGA VP OF DESIGN FREESTREAM Sarah Mespelt Larranaga, a seasoned aviation designer and project manager, is a distinguished graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design. Her career journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence in aircraft design, specialising in creating bespoke interiors and exteriors for discerning clients. With an extensive background in the industry, Sarah’s expertise is honed through her prior roles at Gulfstream Aerospace and Jet Aviation, where she honed her skills in aviation design and project management. She remains at the forefront of the field, continuously exploring the latest concepts, systems, materials, and products to offer Freestream clients unparalleled customisation for their aircraft.
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Please explain your job role briefly: I am an Aviation designer and project manager. We start with clients from initial aircraft procurement to customisation and delivery of their new aircraft. We extend beyond bespoke interiors. Please explain a little of your career journey to get to this point: I began my aviation and design path at Gulfstream Aerospace as an intern after obtaining interior design and engineering degrees at Savannah College of Art and Design and Georgia Institute of Technology. My interests then took me into working on bespoke business jet interiors. In this, I focused on innovative avionics, quality control, furniture structures, and lightweight composites. I have been representing clients for some sixteen plus years now in the fields of aviation design and project completion. What inspires you? Please explain in detail your creative process: I get inspired by new concepts and the challenge in improving on a new aircraft or improving on something vintage. The idea of modernising something iconic or enhancing a client’s experience with their aircraft by improving range or creating a solution for their travel fatigue needs and aircraft connectivity advancements. Sometimes inspiration can come successfully by just the strategic integration of quality materials, an elegant colour palette, fine furnishing design, textures, spatial layout, and personalised tailoring to a specific client’s needs. Where do you feel design is moving in a directional sense, in your sector? Aviation design is moving in several directional senses driven by evolving technology, passenger preferences, and sustainability concerns. Strong client interests in bringing refurbishments to another level in aircraft connectivity, personalisation, and passenger experience. In green completions, there is an emphasis on airframe design, advanced systems, and further advancements in weight management. We tend not to look at “trends” as such at the top end of the market and focus on design with some longevity, but what do you think our key trends/ideas or must-haves for the coming year? As far as trends go, I think people are moving toward minimalism and creating ample white space while emphasising simplicity. A heavy emphasis on gradients and full-colour transitions and, of course, a move toward further sustainable design with an emphasis on eco-friendly design practices. What is your one recommendation for 2024? Utilising a sustainable design philosophy that encourages decisions at each phase of the design process that will reduce negative impacts on the environment and the health
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of the occupants, without compromising the quality or aesthetic. As sustainability moves to the forefront of the conversation, we must design with a mindset of biomimetics, conviviality, durability, and efficiency. We find using green building materials and finishes is a strong way to contribute by not only sourcing materials from companies using responsible manufacturing but sourcing design materials for longevity. Using carpeting and solid flooring made of natural materials and the exploration of materials like Mylo made of mycelium and other innovative materials with durability like Forager Hides from Ecovative Design. There no longer has to be a debate between consolidating luxury and sustainability…luxury is already becoming environmentally conscious, and we look to continue to establish that footprint in private aviation. Eco-friendly materials add a unique character with a layer of authentic importance and have begun to play a role in high-end fashion brands and private aviation. What are you currently working on? With over sixty transactions a year involving aircraft sales, maintenance review, aircraft delivery, and interior and exterior design, you cannot wear just one hat at Freestream. You have to be able to provide creative design, but you must also not be afraid to get your hands a little dirty. Specialising in state-of-the-art, medium through ultra-long-range corporate jet aircraft, I fully understand the importance of attending to all details as required by clients. Right now, I am working on a new Global 7500, plus the refurbishment of a Falcon 7X and a Challenger 300. These aircraft are in completion while we concentrate on the design and planning phase for upcoming Gulfstream’s and BBJ as well as a fun modernisation of an iconic seaplane. Does your work challenge you right now? Please explain a little more about this. I think to keep work challenging as well as successful you just need to set ambitious goals, seek feedback and learn continuously. Although we know that luxury interior design can vary greatly depending on individual tastes and cultural influences, but adding new elements can often form the foundation of opulent interiors. If you balance between pushing boundaries and maintaining quality and consistency with clients as well as new projects, you can be challenged. Final thoughts, or anything else you would like to share with us? For me attention to detail in design is not just about perfectionism; it is about ensuring functionality, user satisfaction, brand consistency, and overall project success. It is a hallmark of professionalism in the design field and a key factor in delivering outstanding results.
Freestream Aircraft Limited is the premier destination for discerning aviation clients who value best in class service and want to secure the best value for their aircraft. We believe that luxury service is defined by our legacy - agility across markets, efficiency and discretion. With over 25 years of aircraft sales and acquisitions Freestream is proud to have a team of highly experienced and uniquely qualified aviation consultants. Our team is able to cover all aspects of aircraft brokerage, acquisition, marketing, sales, custom design services, import/export and maintenance review of your aircraft. We specialize in state of the art, medium through ultra-long range corporate jet aircraft and fully understand the importance of attending to all details as required by our clients. With over 60 transactions per year it is important that we provide clients with that next piece of the process which is design and delivery.
www.freestream.com
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ANNA-MARIA WURZ PRINCIPAL INTERIOR DESIGNER AVID INTERIOR DESIGN INC. Meet Anna-Maria Wurz, a highly accomplished interior designer. Since graduating from Mount Royal University’s Bachelor of Applied Interior Design program in 2010, Anna has dedicated her career to creating timeless and functional designs perfectly aligned with her clients’ lifestyles. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering passion for her craft, Anna has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional design solutions. As the Principal Interior Designer at Avid Interior Design Inc., she consistently provides elevated and innovative design concepts. Anna’s work has garnered international acclaim, and her dedication to crafting fabulous interiors continues to inspire.
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What led you to pursue this career? Since a very young age, I would spend hours drawing, creating, and imagining things that I wanted to share with the world. I always loved beautiful things: especially patterns, colours, and changing things up. It came very naturally for me to envision possibilities and dream up creative solutions in an unconventional way. My love for making art on a 2D canvas expanded inevitably into creating art on a 3D canvas, which essentially is interior design. To me, great design is layers upon layers of carefully curated composition. It must look intentional from every angle you look at it.
We tend not to look at “trends” as such at the top end of the market and focus on design with some longevity, but what do you think our key trends/ideas or must-haves for the coming year? When it comes to interior design, we like to bend the rules and create a space that is perfectly suited to each client and their lifestyles. With every project, we always need to consider these key things – Purpose and Importance, Longevity and Durability; Style and Aesthetics, Budget and Timeline, Harmony and Balance. If these elements are integrated into designing any space, then it will stand the test of time.
Please explain a little of your career journey to get to this point. In 2010, I completed the Bachelor of Applied Interior Design program at Mount Royal University. Since then, I have collaborated with leading professionals in the interior design industry on multiple residential and commercial projects. My designs are timeless, functional, and perfectly suited to my client’s lifestyles. The love I have for design is evident in my work and has resulted in international recognition as I was nominated by The Design Society for The Designer of the Year Award 2019.
What is your one recommendation for 2024? Life is beautiful, however you choose to live it, love the way you live.
As well, Avid Interior Design Inc. was shortlisted in 4 categories for the Design Et Al International Interior Design and Architecture Awards 2019. For eight consecutive years, Avid Interior Design Inc. has received The Best of Houzz Awards for both Service and Design. Since 2020, Avid is honoured to be listed as The Best of Calgary for Interior Design. In 2021, 2022, 2023, and again in 2024, I was asked to be published in The World’s Leading Design Names Volume 11, 12, 13, and 14. Most recently, Avid Interior Design was shortlisted in 3 categories for the Design Et Al International Interior Design and Architecture Awards 2023 and won the award for Luxury Residence Canada. What inspires you? Please explain in detail your creative process. Truly, inspiration comes when it is least expected and when we are not looking for it. I love to be in nature and to travel. It is when my focus is on enjoying the moment and embracing the beauty of life that encourages the most brilliant ideas. When doing something completely unrelated to a design project is when I am surprised with life’s greatest gifts and the most inspirational ideas. Where do you feel design is moving in a directional sense, in your sector? What has been on the forefront of great design for quite some time and will continue to be in the future is incorporating technology and sustainability into our homes and work environments. As technology changes so frequently, we need to design spaces that will be adaptive and relevant for years to come.
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What are you currently working on? Currently, we are working on multiple residential projects in Western Canada as well as Arizona in the United States. The projects consist of a few custom new build homes in and around Calgary, Alberta and Interior British Columbia, Canada; a few large-scale home renovations in Calgary, Alberta as well as Scottsdale, Arizona USA. Each one of these projects is from concept to completion with full-scale interior design services; all in which include furniture and decor procurement. Tell us a little more about yourself: where you live, what you like to do, how to you relax? My whole life, I have lived in and around Calgary, Alberta, Canada. As a child, I grew up on an acreage in DeWinton and now I live downtown Calgary. If I’m not working, I love to escape to the mountains or spend the day at the spa. It is the best way to relax. Although I love to travel the world and explore new places, we have a holiday home in beautifully warm Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, so we frequent there often. During our Canadian winters, if we aren’t skiing or enjoying winter activities, we love to get out of town and go to the beach! Do you manage to achieve a work/life balance? If so, please tell us how you manage to achieve this. Absolutely. Maintaining a well-rounded lifestyle is important to me. Although the success of my business is top priority, I also value my time with family and friends, and take personal time out for myself. Having an organized schedule helps to manage my time effectively, but I am also a spontaneous person who likes the freedom to mix things up every now and then! What are your aims and ambitions for the forthcoming year and beyond? To be truly happy, to feel fulfilled, to be grateful - every day. Final thoughts, or anything else you would like to share with us? Appreciate the small things. Get up in the morning and say thank you! Acknowledge yourself for how far you’ve come and acknowledge others that have helped you along your path. Be grateful for what you have now as it can all be taken away from you in an instant.
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Meticulously Designed.
WWW.AVIDINTERIORDESIGN.COM
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+1 587 349 AVID (2843)
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Your new dream home is a fabulous combination of moder n with a classic twist.
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KENNETH USSENKO PRINCIPAL AND LEAD DESIGNER KENNETH USSENKO DESIGN Kenneth Ussenko, the Principal and Lead Designer of Kenneth Ussenko Design, is a design maven with a global perspective. Born in Saigon, Vietnam, and having lived in 28 countries, Kenneth’s diverse background and extensive training spanning two decades in design production have endowed him with a unique creative palette. His career has been punctuated by remarkable milestones, notably his recent work on large hospitality projects centred around casinos, encompassing hotels, restaurants, and bars. Despite the challenges of scale and tight timelines, each project has been a resounding success, crystallizing his design vision and pushing the boundaries of creativity. As he moves forward, Kenneth aspires to preserve the richness of colour and texture in design, embracing the beauty of the natural world. His journey is one of passion and perseverance, and each day is a cherished opportunity for creativity and growth. The World’s Leading Design Names 53
Where were you born and where did you grow up? I was born in Saigon Vietnam and lived in 28 Countries since then. Now I live Costa Mesa California most the year and part time in my home in Italy. Could you explain your relevant training and work experience? My training encompasses 20 years of design production with projects domestic and international. Working with design environments across many cultures has inspired a labyrinth of visuals, textures and journeys which now fills my creative palette. What would you consider the highlight of your career so far? In the last 6 years my highlights have been working on large hospitality projects which are casino based. They are hotels, restaurants and bars that all based within a casino environment. These projects have been deeply challenging because of the scale and speedy timelines for construction but at the end they were an immense education for my team and I. Each project was delivered with great success. How did achieving this make you feel? It brought greater focus to my design vision and allowed me to understand all the channels of creativity in which we my team and I can push out and produce. Where do you find inspiration for your work? I find all my inspiration through my travels. To be immersed in different cultures, colours, flavours and sounds. Music is also and DNA to my inspiration. It is like the conductor to the visual orchestra I am writing and drawing. Travel and music become me, as I become the next image of my design. How do you relax and maintain a work/life balance, and has this changed recently? I have no balance as my life is my work and my work is my life. I am trying to do more balance in my life but what is balance if I love what I do?! Sometimes I travel to my little sanctuary in Italy, to find peace and solace so that I can return to my passion for design again. What projects are you currently working on, and could you tell us a bit more about them? I am working on a full hospitality project which included a new hotel from ground up. Seven restaurant and bar projects, one night club and one new restaurant of our own. The hotel project we designed is part of a casino in Southern California. Also, we have designed three restaurant and bars in the same hotel. Additionally, we are designing five other restaurant and bars in the United States. A few of these are also in casinos.
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In which area(s) of the design sector do you primarily work? Hospitality Design & Food and Beverage. Could you describe the project you are most proud of to date and why it was a success? The project that I am most proud of was Morongo Casino and Resort. It was a project with bars and restaurants within the new casino expansion which we designed. A major undertaking to work on a 75,000 S.F. casino expansion and an additional 45,000 s.f. of new restaurants and bars while the casino was still operating with customers. At the end it turned out to be a great success because we gave this casino an elevated environment to match destinations in Los Vegas. How would you describe your work/design style and ethos? Our design style and ethos has always been driven by my fascination for historical architecture delivered on a modern canvas. If the project and vision of the journey allows it, this would be the path I usually take. I feel this ethos has been evolving these past few years into a more colourful version of this modern canvas. What are your thoughts on the future of design? I am hoping the future of design does not become too monochromatic. I feel that environments are starting to become too empty and clinical. I hope this is just a bump in the road...for the natural world has so much beauty in its love for colour and texture. I want to always embrace this in my work!!! What are your aims for the next twelve months and beyond? DESIGN DESIGN DESIGN and build a new colour palette for myself and my life journey ahead. In which direction are you moving from a design perspective, and how is your work evolving? I am moving in from the design perspective of always being a sponge, to absorb from the world around me as much as I can so that I can be a better storyteller. How is your work evolving? My work is evolving day by day into a stronger tool, to tell a more interesting story, bringing more joy and comfort to the people that experiences our work. Any final thoughts? I am grateful every day to be able to walk the path of creativity and to be amongst others that share this same journey with me. It is a life of passion and perseverance and I embrace each day which I am lucky enough to live it.
kennethussenkodesign.com
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GRISCHA SCHMIDT SENIOR DIRECTOR DESIGN STUDIO JET AVIATION Grischa Schmidt, the Senior Director of the Design Studio at Jet Aviation in Basel, Switzerland, leads a dynamic team of designers, overseeing their creative endeavours in the world of luxury aviation and interior design. With a rich and varied background, Schmidt brings a wealth of experience to his role, having originally joined Jet Aviation in 2009 as a Senior Designer Project Manager. His journey has taken him across the globe, from California to Munich, and he has lent his creative expertise to renowned companies like BMW Group and Cayros, specialising in yachts and interior aircraft design. Schmidt’s impressive education includes a Bachelor of Science in Transportation Design from the Art Centre College of Design in Pasadena, California, along with multiple diplomas in Fine Art, Art History, History of Architecture, and a Federal Diploma as a Restorer and Carpenter. His return to Jet Aviation in 2017 as a Senior Project Manager Interior Designer marked a significant milestone in his career, culminating in his current role as Senior Director. Schmidt’s dedication to achieving the pinnacle of luxury design, coupled with his deep expertise, ensures a bright and innovative future for Jet Aviation’s design projects.
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Please explain your job role briefly: Leading an international, multidisciplinary design team of award-winning excellence. What have you done previously? Mostly design! Trains, planes, automobiles, boats, yachts, residential interiors, restoration projects, industrial earth moving equipment, mobile phones, printing presses, furniture, food packaging, watches, sports equipment, toys… In 1995 I started my career in design at BMW Designworks USA working on cars such as the 7 Series, Range Rover and initial concepts of the Rolls Royce Phantom. Other projects included the complete rebranding and restyling of the John Deere Industrial equipment, trains for Deutsche Bahn, Nokia mobile phones, and redesign of the large Heidelberger printing presses. In 2000 I started my own company completing numerous super yachts from 25m to 45m, several sailing yachts, and some residential VIP interiors before joining Jet Aviation Basel in 2009. Please explain a little of your career journey to get to this point: My experience descends form a solid base of Swiss craftmanship and many years of international experience working on luxury cars, superyachts and VVIP aviation. For the past 27 years I have worked as a designer in different roles on a vast number of projects. I graduated from the Art Centre College of Design in Vevey, Switzerland, with a Bachelor of Science in Transportation Design, I also hold a diploma in Fine Art, a vocational diploma in Art History and History of Architecture and a Federal Diploma as Restorer and Carpenter. Since 1995 I have worked at a number of international companies specialising in cars, interior and exterior design for super yachts, interior aircraft design, and VIP residential interiors. I began at Designworks USA in California, before moving to Munich to open the first European branch of Designworks USA and working for companies including all the BMW Group Members, founding Cayros design, specialised in super yacht design, in London and Switzerland. I came to Jet Aviation in 2009 as Senior Designer Project Manager, left in 2012 to pursue opportunities abroad, and then came back as Senior Project Manager in 2017, before taking over senior directorship of the Jet Aviation Design Studio in 2018. What inspires you? Please explain in detail your creative process: People, beauty, and quiet luxury. Start with anything and everything you can imagine in your dreams and then reduce it to the purest essence: inspiration comes from everywhere. There is beauty to be found wherever you look: interesting objects, picturesque places, a painting, or piece of art — also the people you meet. Design is an everyday reality and a profound part of my life. There are always opportunities to discover new things that can surprise and inspire you. For the creative process, I take an approach of a bird of prey in flight. I look at all relevant possibilities and options in view, then home in on the solution. Most importantly, we map out our customers’ desires, adjust with possibility, timing and budget then make sure to still achieve the maximum of the initial target. Where do you feel design is moving in a directional sense, in your sector: Quiet simplistic luxury. This is interesting because AI, advanced 3D modelling, new prototyping methods allow for
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sheer endlessly complex aesthetic horizons when it comes to design. I believe that having lived in a visually cluttered era of shapes and pollution of forms, we will revert to cleaner more readable and understandable, yet beautifully, complexly subtle lines in the future in which nature and traditions will play a major role. AI plays a major role harmonising the complex and reduced. It is a great addition to our design toolbox. Embracing it will open new frontiers to us. What is your one recommendation for 2024? The design world has always been incredibly inspiring across all industries. With AI and new manufacturing processes, we are now seeing designs concepts, previously impossible, realised. It’s a very exciting time in the creative worlds and I am looking forward to seeing how we can integrate this innovative thinking into our own work at the Jet Aviation Design Studio and the world of aviation. Does your work challenge you right now? Please explain a little more about this: Challenges are positive and design my work-life ‘Ikigai’. Our designs are driven by the needs of our customers, and this means that every project is different. As customers more and more expect to see the same kind of environment and technology they experience on the ground, in the air, we are pushed to think outside of the traditional aviation box and create solutions that turn the cabin into a true flying home. We are lucky to work embedded in a completion centre, with the engineering and production expertise that brings with it. By working closely with our colleagues in these departments, we are able to really innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible in VVIP completions. Of course, with new ideas, come new challenges, but this close collaboration means that we have a mindset of possibility – if we don’t know if or how something might work, we find out. At the same time, we are also exploring innovative, cutting-edge styles to suit a younger customer, who push us to look beyond our current portfolio and think in a different way. This could be different layouts more sustainable materials and processes, new technology – whatever makes that ultimate cabin experience for that customer. Tell us a little more about yourself: where you live, what you like to do, how to you relax? For me, it is important to be able to completely switch of and focus on something that is outside of the work environment. Of course, design and design inspiration are a huge part of my life, both professionally and personally, and I love to visit museums, art galleries, and to travel, but I also love to spend time with my family and friends, especially in nature. I always find new inspiration outdoors, such as when hiking or gamekeeping as a hobby. What are your aims and ambitions for the forthcoming year and beyond? Our ambition is always to work with our customers to seamlessly bring their interior dreams to life. We have had a very successful year completing exciting projects with incredible customers. We are humbled to have been awarded two major design awards by design et al and intend to remain on that route, pushing the boundaries of what is considered possible in aviation design and beyond.
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Crafted — For 45 years, Jet Aviation has been crafting beautifully bespoke aircraft interiors. We know that the smallest detail can make the biggest difference. A stitch here. A curve there. A space as quiet and comfortable as home. This is how you craft a cabin experience like no other.
JetAviation.com
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ALISON HENRY FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR ALISON HENRY DESIGN LTD Alison Henry, a distinguished interior architect and furniture designer, is known for her ability to create modern yet timeless living spaces that cater to the needs of today’s families. Her global perspective, cultivated through a childhood spent in New Zealand, Asia, Europe, and the U.S., has led to a remarkable career. She began by working on renowned hotel projects, including the Dorchester Hotel and the Peninsula Hotel, and later founded Alison Henry Design in Hong Kong in 1992. Her portfolio boasts high-end hospitality and residential developments, as well as retail designs for brands like Michael Kors’ Celine. Her designs are characterised by a playful approach to scale, a deep appreciation for architectural heritage, meticulous attention to detail, and a respect for cultural influences. Based in London, Alison’s consultancy studio focuses on residential clients, offering tailored solutions and bespoke furnishings. She possesses a vast network of suppliers and craftsmen, and if necessary, she creates custom pieces herself. Alison’s work strikes a balance between luxury and comfort, making her a respected figure in interior design. The World’s Leading Design Names 65
Please explain your job role briefly. Founder & Creative Director of Alison Henry Design based in London, UK. What led you to pursue this career? As a child, my family travelled extensively, and we lived in various parts of the world. I was inspired and influenced by the magical places, cultures, lifestyles, art, and fashion. What have you done previously? I have designed hotels such as the Peninsula in Hong Kong and the Mandarin Oriental, as well as ultra-lux private residences in the UK, France, USA, and across Asia. Please explain a little of your career journey to get to this point. I started working in London on Grand Lux hotels internationally for a hospitality design company before setting up their Asian office in Hong Kong. After my work on the design of The Peninsula Hotel and other projects in the region, I established my own office working out of Hong Kong specializing in the design of clubs and hotels. We quickly expanded to work on residential developments & other design projects including yachts before moving to London, where I based the new Alison Henry Design studio. What inspires you? Please explain in detail your creative process: Travel, Art, Architecture, Fashion — experiencing different cultures and how people live. I’ve always incorporated a playful sense of scale, a penchant for bold visual statement such as oversized pieces, an eye for unique antiques and objets d’art, and a wide array of custom designs and finishes — all of these are my signatures. I have a deep respect for the original architecture, attention to fine detail, and a reverence for historical and cultural influences. All of this, combined with my architectural design experience, makes for interiors that speak to the buildings they inhabit while remaining fresh, comfortable, and inviting for modern, everyday living. During my travels, I was able to curate a contact list of suppliers and craftsmen whom I can call on for custom pieces. If I can’t find what we need, I will design and create bespoke items for my clients. Where do you feel design is moving in a directional sense, in your sector: In this climate, people are looking to invest in property and are designing long-term homes that will stand the test of time, including sustainable and high-quality materials. I think an instinctive understanding of the daily lives and practicalities of my clients is the key to making a true home. We tend not to look at “trends” as such at the top end of the market and focus on design with some longevity, but what do you think our key trends/ideas or must-haves for the coming year? I feel design is becoming more about projecting the individual personalities and desires of how the client sees their life, now and in the future — and less about following trends. I have always said “design once, well” as it lasts
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the test of time rather than a quick fix. These days we think about sustainability in all our designs from the start — buying items and collectibles with longevity that can be kept, built on, and added to in the future. What is your one recommendation for 2024? My recommendation for 2024 would be “Less is more”. Once you have created the architectural space, this is the canvas you can build on and curate your own personal collection. Over time, you can add further layers with collectibles from personal experience and travels. What are you currently working on? We are currently working on several residential projects in the UK and completing a very contemporary project. We are also consulting on new developments including a historic build. Does your work challenge you right now? Please explain a little more about this: I am always looking for new opportunities that excite and inspire – whether it’s the style of architecture, location, or the client and their interests and how we can interpret their requirements. And of course always looking for new materials and products. Tell us a little more about yourself: where you live, what you like to do, how to you relax? I live in London and have four girls plus three dogs – so we have a busy home – which is often full of friends and family. We love to cook, entertain, and be together — sharing and creating memories. Spending time outdoors and playing sports is also a big part of our family life. Do you manage to achieve a work/life balance? If so, please tell us how you manage to achieve this: I have always worked, so juggling the various requirements of work and family life seem normal to me. My diary is always very full of school, family, and work commitments, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. What are your aims and ambitions for the forthcoming year and beyond? My aim and ambition for this coming year is to further develop the Alison Henry brand with a view to looking at creating further collaborations in the future with artisans and manufacturers around the world.
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BUTHAINA HUMAIDY FOUNDER & CEO BUTHAINA HUMAIDY INTERIORS
BUTHAINA HUMAIDY FOUNDER CEOvisionary Buthaina Humaidy & is the CEO and HUMAIDY Founder ofINTERIORS Buthaina BUTHAINA Humaidy Interiors, an awardwinning studio based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Born in Saudi Arabia and raised in Virginia, U.S, Buthaina’s artistic perspective has shaped her exceptional design style from a young age. Her journey to success has been filled with dedication and self-learning. Founded in 2018, Buthaina Humaidy Interiors has quickly become a leading design studio known for creating luxury contemporary classic yet comfortable interiors. With a talented team by her side, Buthaina works tirelessly to deliver aesthetically pleasing environments, marking each project with an elegant and unique style. The studio’s focus on providing bespoke and custom-made pieces ensures that clients’ needs and requirements are met, guaranteeing the highest quality in every aspect.
Buthaina Humaidy is the visionary CEO and Founder of Buthaina Humaidy Interiors, an award-winning studio based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Born in Saudi Arabia and raised in Virginia, U.S, Buthaina’s artistic perspective has shaped her exceptional design style from a young age. Her journey to success has been filled with dedication and selflearning. Founded in 2018, Buthaina Humaidy Interiors has quickly become a leading design studio known for creating luxury contemporary classic yet comfortable interiors. With a talented team by her side, Buthaina works tirelessly to deliver aesthetically pleasing environments, marking each project with an elegant and unique style. The studio’s focus on providing bespoke and custom-made pieces ensures that clients’ needs and requirements are met, guaranteeing the highest quality in every aspect.
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Where were you born/ where did you grow up? I was born in Saudi Arabia and grew up in Virginia, U.S for the first years of my childhood.
How would you describe your work/design style/ ethos? It’s more towards the Luxury Contemporary Classic yet comfortable interiors.
Please explain your relevant training/ work experience? I’ve gained most of my experience through self-learning and from working on small projects during the early years of my business and definitely still learning everyday with each and every project we take on. It’s a never-ending learning process.
How has the pandemic changed your outlook on work/ life? It has changed a lot, both professionally and personally. In only a few months, the pandemic stopped the movement of everything around the world; jobs, economies, businesses, travels, and most importantly, social interactions.
Please describe the highlight of your career to date. Where were born/ where did you grow up? journey, but There are lots of you highlights throughout a designer’s I was born in Saudi Arabia and grew up inevery Virginia, for the probably the one that gives me goosebumps timeU.S I recall is first years of my childhood. when I finally opened my own office. explain this yourmake relevant work experience? HowPlease did achieving youtraining/ feel? I’ve gained most of my experience through self-learning and It has become more real and official. A huge step to my dream from working onAs small projectsbelieved during the early years of my becoming a reality. I’ve always in the saying “It’s definitely still learning everyday with each the business possibilityand of having a dream come true that makes life and every project we take on. It’s a never-ending learning interesting”. process. Where do you find inspiration for your work? Please the highlight of your career toaround date. me Since I wasdescribe a little girl, I’ve always seen everything are lots of highlights throughout a find designer’s journey, fromThere an artistic perspective. Thus, I actually inspiration but probably thewhether one thatduring gives a me goosebumps in my everyday life, simple walk in aevery parktime or I recall ismall when finally opened my own office. a shopping orI during my travels, or even while watching movies or TV shows, and also of course just like other designers, I find endless inspiration onmake the most social media How did achieving this you common feel? channels; like Instagram and Pinterest. It has become more real and official. A huge step to my
dream becoming a reality. As I’ve always believed in the What projects currently working on? come true that saying “It’s are the you possibility of having a dream Currently on several luxury residential projects including makesworking life interesting”. a beautiful Farm Villa. We have been working on a couple of renovation projects which we have found very interesting, Where do you find inspiration for your work? though most difficult, as the outcome always amazes our clients Since I was a little girl, I’ve always seen everything around me and ourselves. from an artistic perspective. Thus, I actually find inspiration in my everyday life, whether during a simple walk in a park or Please describe theor project mostorproud of to date, with a shopping mall duringyou my are travels, even while watching reasons why this was a success? movies or TV shows, and also of course just like other I actually fall inI love with each new project it’s a designers, find endless inspiration on we thetake moston, common never-ending love story for me. I always tell my team this social media channels; like Instagram and Pinterest. is my favourite project, then we complete a newer one and that one becomes my favourite and so on. What projects are you currently working on? Currently working on several luxury residential projects including a beautiful Farm Villa. We have been working on a couple of renovation projects which we have found very interesting, though most difficult, as the outcome always amazes our clients and ourselves. Please describe the project you are most proud of to date, with reasons why this was a success? I actually fall in love with each new project we take on, it’s a never-ending love story for me. I always tell my team this is my favourite project, then we complete a newer one and that one becomes my favourite and so on.
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As for our business, it was a hidden opportunity to start something ouryour ordinary work process of site visits How wouldnew-since you describe work/design style/ and projects supervisions was obstructed and delayed, we ethos? hadmore to find something to keepContemporary our business not onlyyet going but It’s towards the Luxury Classic flourishing. Early on in the pandemic, we started our online comfortable interiors. consultation sessions which have gained a lot of attention not only locally also across the region. How has thebut pandemic changed your outlook on work/ life? It has changed a lot, both professionally and personally. In How ado you feel thethe pandemic has changed global design only few months, pandemic stopped thethe movement of sector? around the world; jobs, economies, businesses, everything People having hadimportantly, to stay in their homes during lockdown made travels, and most social interactions. them realise the importance of making the spaces they live As for our business, itpleasing was a hidden opportunity to start and in more aesthetically in addition to functionality something comfort. new-since our ordinary work process of site visits and projects supervisions was obstructed and delayed, we had findyour something to on keep business not only going Whattoare thoughts theour future of design? but flourishing. Earlyonongrowing in the pandemic, we started our I believe it will keep as it is a continuously evolving online consultation sessions which haveby gained a lot of field that never ends. I quote this saying Robert L. Peters attention not only locallyCulture but alsoshapes acrossvalues, the region. “Design creates culture, Values determine the Future”. How do you feel the pandemic has changed the global design Please sector? tell us your aims for the next twelve months and People having had to stay in their homes during lockdown beyond? made them Irealise the importance of making the spaces they Personally, have always aimed to make a positive change live in more aesthetically pleasing in addition to functionality wherever I go, whether with projects we work on or through the and comfort. posts we share. Thus, I aim to have our office be one of the most inspirational Interior Design Studios in the region and globally. What your thoughts the future of design? We areare always expandingon our team to accommodate the high Idemand believe it will keep on growing as it is a continuously for our services. evolving field that never ends. I quote this saying by Robert L. Peters “Designare creates culture,inCulture Which direction you moving from ashapes design values, perspective? Values determine the Future”. I love designing residential projects and will keep on focusing on that but we are also focusing to grow more on the commercial Please sector. tell us your aims for the next twelve months and beyond? Personally, I have always aimed to make a positive change wherever I go, whether with projects we work on or through the posts we share. Thus, I aim to have our office be one of the most inspirational Interior Design Studios in the region and globally. We are always expanding our team to accommodate the high demand for our services. Which direction are you moving in from a design perspective? I love designing residential projects and will keep on focusing on that but we are also focusing to grow more on the commercial sector.
Website: www.buthainahumaidy.com Email: contact@buthainahumaidy.com Instagram: @buthainahumaidy
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JONAS HERTWIG VP AND DIRECTOR OF DESIGN DAEDALUS YACHTS Jonas Hertwig is the visionary VP and Director of Design at Daedalus Yachts, whose career has been shaped by an unwavering passion for design challenges and a deeprooted fascination with boats since a young age. With over a decade of design experience, he co-founded his own Yacht Design Studio before joining Daedalus Yachts. In his role, Jonas is responsible for the exterior and interior design of all Daedalus projects, overseeing the entire product development journey from the initial sketch to the final handover. Based in New York City and split between their Brooklyn office and a shipyard in North Carolina, Jonas is at the forefront of advancements in technology and sustainability in the yachting industry. His work aims to disrupt the industry by creating advanced, sustainable sailing yachts that reflect a new generation’s values of minimalism, quality, and a balanced lifestyle. Jonas Hertwig encourages us to consume less and embrace mindful living, and his mission is to redefine luxury in a rapidly evolving world.
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Please explain your job role briefly. As VP and Director of Design, I oversee the development of our products from the first sketch to the final handover.
emissions. Trends as we know them will last for shorter periods of time, and we will try to live more mindfully and focused.
What led you to pursue this career? I pursued a career in yacht design because of my passion for design challenges and their solutions, the balance between form and function. From a young age, I was fascinated by boats, which grew into the craft of optimizing style and performance. My studies in design in the Netherlands and Italy provided a strong foundation in design principles, aesthetics, and function.
What is your one recommendation for 2024? Consume less, be mindful, and learn how to use AI to your advantage.
What have you done previously? I worked in various design sectors, creating award-winning products and interiors before specializing in yacht design and sustainable technology.
Does your work challenge you right now? Please explain a little more about this... It always does. We live in an ever-evolving world with an exponential development in technology. Every project brings a completely new set of challenges that need to be solved in terms of styling, usability, and overall function. The challenge is the joy in design.
Please explain a little of your career journey to get to this point. Jonas has over 10 years of design experience and worked with various shipyards worldwide before co-founding his own Yacht Design Studio with two French partners. After successfully establishing the brand and building a portfolio of clients worldwide, he joined Daedalus Yachts as Director of Design. He is responsible for the exterior and interior design of all Daedalus projects and currently holds the position of VP at Daedalus Yachts. What inspires you? Please explain in detail your creative process. I often find myself searching for the simplicity of designers like Dieter Rams, whose work strives to distil complex ideas into elegant and straightforward solutions, eliminating unnecessary elements while ensuring clarity in both form and function. Architects like Calatrava, whose organic forms, spaces, and structures feel as if they are created by nature itself, and the minimalistic and timeless approach of John Pawson, to name a few. Where do you currently work from and what is your creative working environment? Currently, I split my time between our New York office, which is located within a creative, sustainable-focused design hub in Brooklyn, and our shipyard and engineering office in North Carolina. Where do you feel design is moving in a directional sense, in your sector? Advancements in technology are exponential, which is heavily reflected in the design world as well as the yachting industry. A strong focus on sustainable production methods as well as new propulsion systems catapult new concepts to the forefront of the market. I believe the focus on the ecological footprint will become a major decision-making factor. We will focus more on the process rather than just the end product. The journey to the final product will highlight the brand. We tend not to look at “trends” as such at the top end of the market and focus on design with some longevity, but what do you think our key trends/ideas or must-haves for the coming year? I believe advancements in AI, 3D printing, and sustainable materials will continue to create more luxury and fewer
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What are you currently working on? The design and production of our flagship project, a 100 ft performance sailing catamaran, as well as various yacht projects ranging from 36 ft up to 165 ft.
Tell us a little more about yourself: where you live, what you like to do, how do you relax? Through sketching, meditation, and weekends at an inspirational gallery. Living in New York City allows me to have this vast resource of inspiration in art, tech, and community. Do you manage to achieve a work/life balance? If so, please tell us how you manage to achieve this. I strongly believe in coworking and collaborative work environments. Recent years have shown us that work does not necessarily have to be bound to a physical location, which created enormous opportunities. Working in the design field, I often find inspiration when I am not working in various situations, which then merge work and life in a seamless and beautiful way. What are your aims and ambitions for the forthcoming year and beyond? Disrupt the yachting industry with the most advanced sailing yacht in the world. Final thoughts, or anything else you would like to share with us? The global design sector will have to cater to a new generation of consumers which lead a nomadic lifestyle, will own fewer products, prefer rural environments over the urban cities, and who focus on the experience of products they interact with. Status symbols will include a balanced lifestyle rather than a physical luxury product. Clients will look for quality in the essential products they own and will do everything to slow down to counter the fast-paced society we live in. We will consume less and experience more.
THE POWER OF NOW We sail to all corners of the world. While our destinations are magnificent, the existing charted routes take us from one refueling station to another. Daedalus envisions open ocean holidays with destinations rationalized only by your heart's desire. WIND, WATER, and SOLAR are the power plants that drive our inspiration and innovation. Clean energy in, clean air out. Yesterday was the day for fossil fuels, Now is the time for zero emissions.
www.daedalusyachts.com
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REBECCA LEIVARS FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR LEIVARS INTERIORS STUDIO Rebecca Leivars is an accomplished high-end residential interior designer renowned for her unwavering commitment to creating exquisite interiors. Her design journey began following her exceptional achievements at the KLC School of Design in London, culminating in the establishment of LEIVARS in 2007. With a relentless focus on quality and practicality, Rebecca’s dedication has earned her a reputation as a visionary in the field. Her design philosophy seamlessly blends intelligence and diversity, reflecting her clients’ personalities in every project with a meticulous attention to detail. Known for her signature commitment to excellence, Rebecca strives to make design accessible and prides herself on crafting unique, luxurious living spaces that always prioritize the client’s vision. Her enduring dedication to client satisfaction is evident in the strong presence she has cultivated in both the UK and Europe, with repeat business and client referrals as a testament to her success.
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Please explain your job role briefly: Interior design of high-end residential properties throughout the UK and Europe. What led you to pursue this career? An accidental path and the love of changing buildings and the natural desire to enhance existing spaces each time I walked into one. I had a creative hunger from my earliest memory and love for moving homes because it allowed me to recreate each time. What have you done previously? My previous career path prior to Interior Design was within HR Management for UK based companies ranging from bluechip companies to local government. Please explain a little of your career journey to get to this point: My career started out at the age of 11 on markets in Europe selling jewellery, which was an instrumental starting point in dealing with people from all walks of life and learning about selling and negotiating skills. Then back in the UK falling into Human Resources led a natural academic pathway into this career for 8 years, and then a small break while renovating my own home led to a career change into Interior Design and subsequent studying for a formal qualification. What inspires you? Please explain in detail your creative process: Anything and everything inspires me, from nature, art, antiques, run-down and forgotten derelict buildings. History. A random shape or pattern but most of all design for me is an intuitive reaction to a space, it’s an innate feeling I have towards spaces and reading them differently to the everyday person. Where do you currently work from and what is your creative working environment? My design team and I work from a mix of locations as a huge element of what we do is travel, so it isn’t always easy to be sat in a nice controlled environment of the studio designing. The initial design concepts are crafted in the studio, and then work happens from an array of locations ranging from project sites, airports, showrooms, etc. A huge part of the job requires you to react and adapt. Where do you feel design is moving in a directional sense, in your sector? Technology as always is pushing design hard, with the new move from the meta-world to AI. It is becoming a much more real visual world which is allowing clients to be both immersive and experience the design and spaces before committing and also allowing to visualize a human-like visualize of the end result, exciting for the end user as it allows the story to be told as we see it in our heads at the concept stage. We tend not to look at “trends” as such at the top end of the market and focus on design with some longevity, but what do you think our key trends/ideas or must-haves for the coming year? As a studio, we simply avoid trends at all costs. We live in such a consumerism world we like to steer our designs
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towards longevity of design both from a sustainable perspective and also one of designing with a sense of responsibility towards the environment. The investments that our clients make and the trust they place in us to ensure their homes still look timeless in 10 years plus. What is your one recommendation for 2024? Enjoy the ride! What are you currently working on? We are currently working on a stunning lakeside Guest Barn in Mid Sussex, a beautiful 5-storey Chelsea Townhouse, a family home in Surrey, a Mews house in St John’s Wood, a beautiful Edwardian family home in Nottingham, a fabulous Victorian family home in Barnes with plans for a showstopper of a Barn in Norfolk. Does your work challenge you right now? Please explain a little more about this. The role of Interior Designer is always challenging as you have to manage so many people’s expectations and keep so many plates spinning, every project brings new challenges as each home is different, each construction, and the building’s heritage are all unique as are the designs we do for our clients. Designers don’t just design, a huge part of our role is people management and problem solving with a huge dose of administration and paper trails. Tell us a little more about yourself: where you live, what you like to do, how to you relax? I’m told by my partner that I’m a nomad, I don’t think I am, I just make wherever I am my home. A skill I learned growing up in so many locations so you adapt to your environment which helps massively with the travel that I do for my clients. I spend a lot of time between London, South/West Coast, and my hometown Nottingham. The small amount of downtime I have is spent with my partner and my beloved dog, Harry, every single day is so precious with them both. Do you manage to achieve a work/life balance? If so, please tell us how you manage to achieve this. Absolutely not no! I would love to but I’m married to my job because I just love it, so I don’t see it as work, it’s highly stressful but I also thrive in a fast-paced environment so for me balance is about ensuring I still get that joy from work and the rest naturally falls into place. What are your aims and ambitions for the forthcoming year and beyond? As with any business, steady growth and to continue to protect my team and ensure they also love their days. My team are like family so protecting them, ensuring we progress as a team, and that we all continue to laugh together. That we work on fewer but better quality projects and that we continue to care.
“Transferring our client’s personalities into the everyday with excellence as a constant principal in all that we do” R E B E C C A L E I VA R S
e: studio@leivars.com
t: + 44 (0)7929 934511
Instagram: leivars_interiors_studio
www.leivars.com
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MARK PASCOE CEO, HEAD OF SALES & DESIGN FALCON TENDERS LTD Mark Pascoe is a highly accomplished designer and industry veteran known for his pioneering work in highperformance sports boats and luxury superyacht tenders. He began his career at Cougar Marine, where he crafted highperformance powerboats that achieved international acclaim in powerboat racing. His role in leading race teams, including the official Lamborghini squad, showcased his expertise in the field. Mark’s career took a significant turn in 2005 when, as General Manager of Pascoe International, he oversaw the production of custom tenders for the iconic S/Y MALTESE FALCON. Later, as Production Manager at Pascoe International, he supervised the construction of over 200 superyacht tenders. In 2021, Mark founded Falcon Tenders, a venture dedicated to creating toptier superyacht tenders. His legacy as a designer and industry leader continues to shape the world of luxury maritime experiences. The World’s Leading Design Names 89
Please explain your job role briefly: CEO, Head of Sales & Design What led you to pursue this career? From a very young age, I was always interested in boats and decided to pursue that by starting out as an apprentice marine engineer on the River Thames in London. What have you done previously? I built a tender building company over 20 years, delivering over 200 tenders as “Pascoe International” prior to going our separate ways in 2019. Please explain a little of your career journey to get to this point: I started out manufacturing RIBS and hi-performance sports boats with a small, dedicated team of skilled craftsmen under Mark Pascoe Sport RIBS. The company enjoyed large-scale expansion with its range of 7-10m Sport RIBS spearheading the success of the company. The seminal moment in my career came in 2005 when, as General Manager of Pascoe International, I oversaw the production of two custom tenders for the legendary S/Y MALTESE FALCON. During my time as Production Manager at Pascoe International, I oversaw the build of more than 200 superyacht tenders. In 2021, I began a new chapter in my career and established Falcon Tenders, which looks to build the very best superyacht tenders on the market. What inspires you? Please explain in detail your creative process: Breaking boundaries in design, developing new ideas, lines, and using interesting textures and finishes while maintaining a sustainability ethic. Where do you currently work from and what is your creative working environment? I work in an open office with my team of young designers and mechanical engineers. Where do you feel design is moving in a directional sense, in your sector? Each client is looking to create something unique, interesting, and stylish. The tender is the first impression given to guests of the main yacht, so it is of paramount importance. We tend not to look at “trends” as such at the top end of the market and focus on design with some
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longevity, but what do you think our key trends/ideas or must-haves for the coming year? The market is slowly embracing hybrid and electric technology with foiling becoming a real option to improve efficiency. What is your one recommendation for 2024? Create totally unique designs keeping a keen eye on sustainability. What are you currently working on? We are developing a range of exclusive tenders for a large yacht manufacturer, including a SOLAS coded self-righting tender. Does your work challenge you right now? Please explain a little more about this: As Falcon is a full custom manufacturer, it is very tough to start the design process often from a blank page. We need to create something eye-catching quickly to grab the attention of an owner. Tell us a little more about yourself: where you live, what you like to do, how do you relax? I live in a stylish apartment in Burseledon near the river Hamble. There isn’t much relaxation time while developing and growing this relatively new venture. Do you manage to achieve a work/life balance? If so, please tell us how you manage to achieve this: Not really, my life is devoted to my business and career and always has been, even in my younger days. I missed a lot when my daughters were growing up sadly. What are your aims and ambitions for the forthcoming year and beyond? I intend to build Falcon into the world’s most recognized brand of yacht tender, with the highest quality and standards of finish that are second to none. We are already quite close after only three years. Falcon will be the “musthave” tender for the most exclusive yachts in the world. Final thoughts, or anything else you would like to share with us? design et al is an entirely unique event. I truly enjoy the versatility of the brand and seeing the other categories such as homes and aviation.
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BEN LEWIS FOUNDER & GENERAL MANAGER TRENZSEATER Ben Lewis has always had a passion for design and designed his first sofa when he was only 14 years old. Ben and his brother Hamish Lewis founded TRENZSEATER in 2004, through a vision Ben had to fulfil a niche in the market for custom-made luxury furniture and interior design. TRENZSEATER quickly established itself as a design destination through presenting its collections in exquisite and inspiring showroom settings. TRENZSEATER is a design leader in the New Zealand market for furniture and interior design, specialising in furniture which is designed and manufactured in New Zealand.
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Please explain your job role briefly. General Manager and Head Interior Designer What led you to pursue this career? I have been brought up in the industry so from an early age I was always inspired by furniture and interior design, visiting my grandfather’s furniture factory and being exposed to great design led to starting TRENZSEATER and a career in interior design. I also thrive on the creative process of designing projects, the challenges that each brings to then layering all the elements together for a cohesive result. Please explain a little of your career journey to get to this point. I was inspired by my grandfather’s furniture business growing up, his drive and passion for manufacturing some of the finest furniture in New Zealand gave me from an early age a grounding and foundation in an industry which I fell in love with. My first sofa I designed and was successful for production was when I was 14, which was the start of many more as I design all our furniture designs for TRENZSEATER. I had a vision to start a high-end furniture and interior design business in New Zealand which I did at the age of 20, to cater for a market where clients wanted something personalised, different to what anyone else had. TRENZSEATER was established with my brother Hamish, and together we have grown the business into one of New Zealand’s most prominent furniture, interior design stores. Our Interior Design Service grew purely through industry experience, with my interior design work now being highly regarded and recognised on an international level. TRENZSEATER has 3 stores throughout New Zealand which house all the products we manufacture to order in New Zealand along with all our beautiful International brands we distribute from Europe. These stores are a true showcase to our interior design expertise, demonstrating our unique quality of product and manner in which we present it. Our Interior Design Service is also an influential part of business which has grown over the many years into a full service that we offer to clients throughout New Zealand. What inspires you? Please explain in detail your creative process. I am continuously inspired each day by design, through architecture, interior design and classic furniture design where the classic detailing provided a signature style. I also enjoy and find inspiration in fashion, art and antiques. Natural materials inspire me for their unique, classic qualities, marbles, stone and the character you get from solid timbers. Where do you currently work from and what is your creative working environment? I am based in our Christchurch showroom, although I do move around all our showrooms, it is a luxury to have such a large showroom as our workspace as we have so much product and sampling to show clients, it makes the process so much more tactile. Where do you feel design is moving in a directional sense, in your sector? I believe design is moving towards interiors which are eloquently layered providing layers of interest and
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personality to a design that make spaces a pleasure to be in and enjoyed at the same time. We also see in design the use of matt and brushed metal finishes, brass in door hardware and light fixtures along with the use of a lot of natural marbles and stones. We tend not to look at “trends” as such at the top end of the market and focus on design with some longevity, but what do you think are key trends/ideas or must haves for the coming year? Great design is timeless, but I do think we are going to see a lot more natural materials like marble and alabaster being used, natural timbers being finished in very raw finishes along with brushed metal finishes. Clients want to see something that looks real and natural. What is your one recommendation for 2024? DREAM BIG, THINK BIG, GO BIG! What are you currently working on? Currently I am working on several really exciting projects, probably the most intriguing is an alpine lodge that will feature a lot of raw, natural finishes and materials along with a classic home that we have an eclectic, modern mix of finishes, materials and furnishings that will be visually stimulating to the eye. There are also several beautifully appointed architectural homes throughout New Zealand which are all currently in progress at various stages. Does your work challenge you right now? Please explain a little more about this. The most challenging aspect at the moment is the long lead times involved with freighting products to New Zealand. Tell us a little more about yourself: where you live, what you like to do, how you relax? I live in Christchurch, New Zealand, with my wife Vicky and our four children who keep us very busy and entertained! We all like being active so sports play a large part of our lives, we also enjoy spending time at our holiday home in Akaroa. An escape from work for me is golf which I enjoy tremendously. Do you manage to achieve a work/life balance? If so, please tell us how you manage to achieve this. It’s important when you lead a busy and important work career that you have balance, finding balance is always hard but having that time away is rejuvenating and offers so much inspiration. What are your aims and ambitions for the forthcoming year and beyond? Continue to deliver outstanding interior design projects along with upgrading our Christchurch and Auckland showrooms. Final thoughts, or anything else you would like to share with us? “There are many things in life that will catch your eye, but only a few will catch your heart, pursue those”.
T R E N Z S E AT E R AWARD WINNING INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE
NEW ZEALAND AUCKLAND - 80 Parnell Rd, +64 9 303 4151 CHRISTCHURCH - 121 Blenheim Rd, +64 3 343 0876 QUEENSTOWN - 313 Hawthorne Dr, +64 3 441 2363
INTERNATIONAL ENQUIRIES benlewis@trenzseater.com www.trenzseater.com
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ROBERT ANGELL FOUNDER & CEO ROBERT ANGELL DESIGN INTERNATIONAL Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Dorset, Robert’s love affair with design ignited in the early stages of his upbringing, a time when the allure of crafting and innovation captivated his imagination. In 2010, he established his design studio, where his distinctive style flourished, inspired by modernist aesthetics and artistic pioneers. His global travels have enriched his profound understanding of the industry, fostering a wealth of resources and experience. Robert’s commitment to excellence extends beyond creativity; he is dedicated to delivering a service marked by unparalleled precision and seamless execution. Navigating the dynamic realms of design, Robert has honed his skills to not only conceive captivating concepts but also to bring them to life with a meticulous attention to detail. Whether drawing from the avant-garde or paying homage to classical aesthetics, his work reflects a unique synthesis of influences, resulting in designs that resonate with a timeless allure. With each project, Robert continues to redefine the boundaries of creativity, weaving narratives that seamlessly merge the past and present, leaving an indelible mark on the ever-evolving tapestry of design.
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Please explain your job role briefly. Founder & CEO of Robert Angell Design International What led you to pursue this career? My fascination with spaces that evoke emotion has been a lifelong passion, extending across diverse environments such as hotels, restaurants, and residences. Whether it’s the desire to linger or the anticipation of discovering the next destination, I believe in the power of creating atmospheres that resonate with people. From a young age, my interest in crafting and designing led me to create lamps and coffee tables during my school years. Decorating my bedroom with these creations was a transformative experience — from the initial spark of an idea to the hands-on process of making, and finally, witnessing the impact on the space. This journey not only enhanced my surroundings but also altered my perception of the environment. It’s this transformative quality that I’ve always sought to infuse into my designs, with the overarching goal of enriching and elevating people’s lives. What have you done previously? In my professional journey, I had the privilege of honing my skills under the guidance of the esteemed David Collins, a true luminary in modern design. The 15 years spent at his studio were instrumental in shaping my career, ultimately leading me to the role of creative director. Working alongside David was an inspiring experience, and his approach to projects and design greatly influenced my own perspective. Subsequently, fuelled by this invaluable experience, I ventured to establish my own design firm. What inspires you? Please explain in detail your creative process. My wellspring of inspiration is deeply rooted in extensive travel experiences that expose me to diverse countries and cultures. Immersing myself in various lifestyles allows me to grasp the essence of how people live and derive enjoyment, influencing the reflective nature of the interiors I design. Central to my creative process is meticulous research, a fundamental element in shaping distinctive projects. Collaborating closely with clients and fostering a dynamic team around me enables the exchange of ideas through collective thinking. A fervour for the arts and fashion serves as a perpetual muse, given their ever-evolving nature. The constant change in these realms inspires fresh perspectives and infuses my designs with a contemporary flair. Additionally, delving into the past provides another layer of inspiration; revisiting specific historical points unveils intriguing details that spark creativity. Overall, my creative process is a fusion of cultural exploration, collaborative efforts, and a harmonious blend of contemporary influences and historical nuances. Where do you currently work from and what is your creative working environment? I have a remarkable studio situated in a warehouse with a captivating view overlooking the River Thames in London. The play of light on the water is truly mesmerizing, and the panoramic vistas of London provide an incredible backdrop. Observing the changing seasons and maintaining a connection with nature from this vantage point is particularly meaningful to me. I even came in during lockdown it was that inspiring and calming. Where do you feel design is moving in a directional sense, in your sector? Design is ever changing. It’s our lust to create and inspire and bring amazing interiors and experiences to the people
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we design for. I think there is a real passion for details and materials that are sustainable and have a unique way of being incorporated into the designs we create. I like to design to allow my interiors to wear in and have a timeless feel but reflect what is of now so they are not pastiche. There is a lot of nostalgia in design which evokes your senses more than ever, even if the designs are perhaps set in the past, new prints and textures make them feel up to date. We tend not to look at “trends” as such at the top end of the market and focus on design with some longevity , but what do you think are key trends/ideas or must haves for the coming year? I think lighting is always key to a great design in setting the scene and ensuring that the interior can change throughout the day and evening. This is so important in any interior to get this right especially when this creates an atmosphere conducive to the mood you are in or how this works within an interior and the items within it and that includes people and making them look good too. What is your one recommendation for 2024? Prioritize the emotional experience within interiors. Delve into the essence of how individuals will feel within the space, considering every facet, from the sustainability of material choices to crafting an exceptional and immersive encounter. Elevating the awareness of the emotional impact of design elements and ensuring sustainability will not only enhance the overall atmosphere but also contribute to a more conscious and fulfilling experience for those inhabiting the space. Does your work challenge you right now? Please explain a little more about this. Yes, it’s good to be challenged as every project is new and even though you may have designed a restaurant or hotel before there are always new considerations in how people are travelling, living, working or eating that is in constant change and it’s our job to keep abreast of the everchanging world we live in. Tell us a little more about yourself: where you live, what you like to do, how you relax? I live in London where I enjoy walks and soaking up the social scene that makes London such an amazing city that is ever changing. I enjoy reading about art and design too which gives me an insight into what is going on too. Do you manage to achieve a work/life balance? If so, please tell us how you manage to achieve this. I think that owning a business means that you never really switch off as it inevitably means that looking around at a dinner or when you enter a hotel or shop it’s all part of what we do and so there is always an opinion or question as to what made the designer do what they did. It can also be inspiring too. Final thoughts, or anything else you would like to share with us? This is such a wide and exciting industry and it’s really a vocation to me now, especially that our world is filled with so many exciting places to visit and also the images associated with where we all are makes it even more important to create interiors that resonate with where they are and that the narrative is more important than ever.
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