You’ve won awards, including The House & Garden Pineapple Award for Hotel Design. How have these milestones influenced the reputation and direction of the company?
‘Receiving an honorary award such as your Pineapple Achievement Award is huge validation, not just for me, but for the whole team. It’s a boost of confidence to our clients and us, and reinforces our philosophy to pursue and explore new ideas.’
For someone starting out in interior design today, what practical steps would you recommend in the next five years?
‘I would recommend embracing a broad spectrum of design, not just interiors. This approach has been a huge asset to me. Get some hands-on experience, even volunteering on projects. Attend workshops, connect with peers and mentors and don’t limit yourself, there are many paths in design.’
What qualities do you value most in junior designers who join your team?
‘In junior designers, I value openness, curiosity, a hunger to soak up knowledge and no ego. A balance of creativity and practicality, and isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves. I don’t like titles, we are all designers.’
Often, young designers don’t have big portfolios – what are some ways they can develop their eye?
‘Developing an eye for design is all about observation and curiosity. Drawing trains your eye to see detail. Visit museums, galleries and historic interiors. I often borrow and reinvent ideas from the past. People-watch and absorb the world around you.’
What do you wish more young interior designers knew about the day-to-day reality of working in the industry?
‘I wish more young designers knew to just pick up the phone and talk to people. It’s about understanding needs, solving problems, building relationships and gathering insights. It’s a two-way street; you build trust together this way. It’s also important to be humble, don’t get so caught up in the idea of ‘designer’, it’s a team sport.’