IN CONVERSATION WITH NAM DANG-MITCHELL

 

Nam Dang-Mitchell

 

I am currently enamoured with the work of Calgary-based interior designer, Nam Dang-Mitchell. She is a master of layering in every way possible: style eras, textures, the glamorous with the casual and the classic with the whimsical. She has also excelled at the art of creating a neutral palette that is luxurious and not boring. Infusing artifacts, architectural details and fine pieces into the space is a common thread in her designs, they are a definite 'wow factor', but do not appear off limits - they are tactile and every bit intertwined into the space as the floral arrangement next to them. Her thoughtfully assembled spaces are not only beautiful, they are also entirely liveable; a mother of two herself, Nam's spaces maintain an air of sophistication whilst being totally family–friendly. Although, I love the anecdote on her blog where she lovingly chastises her french bulldog for destroying her sofa (…three times) while debating the practicality of reupholstering it in an ecru toned mohair (ecru being her recent obsession at the time); she eludes to going for it with her favourite quote: "Those who sacrifice beauty for practicality get what they deserve."

 

And that is the beauty of a blog, you get a feel for one's sense of humour, lifestyle, loves and inspiration. Nam's stunningly minimal blog is all about just that, inspiration. Each post boasts a mélange of images, quotes, thoughts and video for what is currently inspiring her. Art, fashion and music is often injected amongst furnishings and completed spaces. It is a definite must-read to add to your blog roll – this woman's taste is impeccable. You may have also seen Mrs. Dang-Mitchell's work in the pages of Style at Home or House & Home magazine (where she was included in their 25th anniversary issue as a top designer to watch), she has also been all over the blogosphere (I am not the only admirer of her work, clearly!) .

 

I can't wait to get Nam's input on design, please read on to join the conversation…

 

Iván Meade - What is your design philosophy?

 

Nam Dang-Mitchell - I'm not really a 'form follows function' kind of girl. Function is easy.  What's harder is to create a room that makes you feel something. That's where I start; what is the mood, the emotion I want to convey in this room?

 

Interiors by Nam Dang-Mitchell

 

Iván Meade - What is your favourite design find? Where did you get it and why is it important to you?

 

Nam Dang-Mitchell - Oddly, for someone who loves beautiful things, I'm not particularly attached to anything material. I obsess over something only because it is the perfect item to complete a scene or a room. Sometimes it's something valuable and pedigreed, other times it's something from Ikea.  The satisfaction of putting it into place is the same for me.

 

Interiors by Nam Dang-Mitchell

 

Iván Meade - What are you excited about right now in the world of design?

 

Nam Dang-Mitchell - I'm excited about rooms that are more curated than decorated. About combining objects, furnishings and art from different periods and genres that together, express something new.

 

Interiors by Nam Dang-Mitchell

 

Iván Meade - What designers of past and present do you admire most?

 

Nam Dang-Mitchell - I'm really such a Francophile; Jean Michel Frank, Jacques Grange and today Jean Louis Deniot are my heroes. Their work embodies classicism and refinement, but also contains an element of subversion and audacity, and this is what makes it so chic.

 

 

Interiors by Nam Dang-Mitchell

 

Iván Meade ­ I notice that you are well-travelled. Is this a primary source of inspiration for you? What has been your favourite destination and why?

 

Nam Dang-Mitchell - It's hard to beat the south of France. When you're there, it's like all your senses come alive. Biking to an open air market, cooking with the freshest produce, eating alfresco, it doesn't get better than that! You understand why meals and holidays are so sacred to the French. I loved it because we were all so present and connected, there was no internet or video games. I don't know if this makes me a better designer, maybe a better person.

 

Interiors by Nam Dang-Mitchell

 

Iván Meade ­ Art and Design will always be intertwined, and I believe creatives often feel passionate about more than one art form. You feature a number of music videos and fashion images on your blog. If you weren't the fabulous interior designer that you are (or even in addition to), would you ever consider a foray into fashion or music?

 

Nam Dang-Mitchell -I love fashion and music too much to turn them into work. And really, no one should have to hear me sing!

 

Interiors by Nam Dang-Mitchell

 

Iván Meade ­ On the same vein, here at the studio we all always have current 'Jams' and it's interesting to see what each person is loving right now in the music industry. Do you have an inspirational playlist for while you are working? Or a current favourite artist/song?

 

Nam Dang-Mitchell - With music, it's all about the new for me. I'm not nostalgic at all.  Currently like everyone, I am blown away by Lorde. How does one have such a honed artistic perspective at that age? Her take on suburban ennui is beautiful. Loving Buzzcut Season and Tennis Court.

 

Interiors by Nam Dang-Mitchell

 

Iván Meade - What would be your dream project?

 

Nam Dang-Mitchell - Honestly, just being able to do this as a living is a dream. But... I am itching to do a well-priced townhouse/condo project. I want to show that style has nothing to do with having a lot of money.

 

Interiors by Nam Dang-Mitchell

 

Iván Meade ­ I love that you use contrast and layers in all it's forms, including the addition of unexpected/opposite elements. It creates interest in a magnificent way. What is your process to tell when one of these bold moments is going to make or break the final result?

 

Nam Dang-Mitchell - I wish I knew! You have a vision of how things will come together, and frankly sometimes they don't come together, they fall flat. You have to have the courage to reassess and try something else until it clicks. But in design, as in life, you must take some risks in order to have an impact.

 

Interiors by Nam Dang-Mitchell

 

Iván Meade - What is the best advice you have received (design-related or otherwise)?

 

Nam Dang-Mitchell - Always buy good bread.

 

Interiors by Nam Dang-Mitchell

 

Iván Meade - I love this quote of yours: "In an age of Real Housewives and Kardashians, perhaps we need to rethink our ideas about luxury. Give me less, but give me quality and restraint." What is your definition of luxury?

 

Nam Dang-Mitchell - Luxury to me is being comfortable in your own skin. It's knowing who you are and expressing it thoughtfully in everything that you do. The way you dress, the way you decorate your home, the way you fry an egg and present it, the way you carry yourself, the way you love someone.

 

Interiors by Nam Dang-Mitchell

 

Iván Meade - What's next for you?

 

Nam Dang-Mitchell - Like most designers, I'd love to do a book. Ultimately that depends on the quality of work I do, so for now I'm just focused on making some killer homes.

 

Interiors by Nam Dang-Mitchell

 

Iván Meade - Lastly, you have already created a stunning body of work, what would you like your legacy to be?

Nam Dang-Mitchell - Legacy? Goodness, I'm only just beginning to find my voice!

 

I invite you to visit the stunning interior and inspiration  portfolio of Nam Dang-Mitchell at:

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011

IN CONVERSATION WITH AMBER KINGSNORTH OF MAK INTERIORS

Amber Kingsnorth RID LEED AP

Alas, the Victoria market lost this gem of a designer to the mainland, but Amber Kingsnorth is making a name for herself in the big city with her new design firm, Mak Interiors. After nearly a decade of Vancouver Island based design experience, she's moved on to see what Vancouver has to offer

.

Not only is Amber a talented, professional, and smart designer – she is also one of the most fun! Her blog and social media pages never fail to make her readers smile. Plus, she is award-winning (2011 IDIBC Awards of Excellence – Silver), a LEED Accredited Professional and a Registered Interior Designer and a very active member of IDIBC to boot.

 

Amber takes on a wide-range of projects including; hotels, condominium and town home developments, offices, restaurants, healthcare, retail and residential. The connecting thread? She approaches projects with a mind for salvaging the unsalvageable.

 

We had previously interviewed Amber with Inoui Design in 2010, but with a new firm, new city (Vancouver) and new projects, we wanted to get an update from this spirited design aficionado.

 

Amber also has a special place in my heart, she is the team captain of the Designer Survivors Tour, an industry team of cyclists raising funds for the BC Cancer Foundation – and she dedicated on of her treks to me when I was first diagnosed – I will be forever grateful for that.

 

Read on to get in on the conversation and find out what Ms Kingsnorth has been up to…

Iván Meade – So, what's new since we featured you last?

Amber Kingsnorth - After about a year of traveling back and forth between Victoria and Vancouver to see clients, I finally set down roots on the mainland.  That move came with a lot of change and a lot of personal reflection.  This is an industry full of amazingly talented people and no shortage of vision so it was important to me to define what I was bringing to the table.   I believe in bringing value and purpose to bricks and mortar construction and creating spaces that support goals and foster growth.  A store isn't just a place to buy things, it's a way to experience the message behind them.  A doctors office isn't just where you go to see a doctor, it's a place of comfort and care.  Not to get too deep on the first question but it's the basis for my new interior design firm!  Māk Interiors (pronounced 'make') is all about making space work for the people it serves; commercial and residential.  We also have a great team of collaborators who help extend our services into the branding, business development and marketing realms for those commercial clients who need a little help finding their own message.

 

Interiors by Amber Kingsnorth

Iván Meade – What are you excited about right now in the world of design?

Amber Kingsnorth -  Community!  I've always been an advocate for an open and collaborative interior design community and that's crossing into other disciplines as well.  For commercial clients seamless messaging is very important; from business cards, to website, to environment, the feeling needs to be cohesive.  By coming together with graphic designers, web developers, and industry specific suppliers, we can create spaces that are tailored to each client and the needs of their business.

 

Interiors by Amber Kingsnorth

Iván Meade – What is on the horizon for Mãk Interiors?

Amber Kingsnorth –  We're really carving out a niche for ourselves in the retail industry; helping retailers better define their brand and create engaging spaces that showcase their products in unique ways.  Right now we're just in talks with one of my favorite furniture retailers in the city.  I can't say much right now but I'm very excited to be working with them!

 

Interiors by Amber Kingsnorth

Iván Meade – I have seen that you’ve been featured in GRAY magazine for your concept window displays?  What is the process to design a window display and where did you get your inspiration from?

Amber Kingsnorth -  First of all; GRAY is a great publication that your readers should definitely get their hands on!

The feature was of a window display we created for a great local retailer; espace d.  The store itself is a gorgeous modern space (designed by the Office of Marfarlane Biggar) and the owner was looking for a creative way to display his very unique houseware and objet d'art for the holiday season.  He wanted a very provocative display to draw attention to the store so we took a chance and presented a concept that placed his products amongst a pile of discarded ordinary home goods.  The premise being that the quality and unique aesthetic of his offering would really stand out.  He took a risk  (I love a client who trusts the vision!) and it completely paid off.  The installation has outlived the holiday season and is still going strong, attracting new clients and creating a buzz about the shop.

Because they're temporary, window displays offer a lot freedom in design but they also need to showcase the products in a practical way.  Drawing people into the store is a major value to a retailer but only if you're attracting the right people so you really need to understand the brand before diving in.  You want to design something that will have meaning to their target audience - those are the eyes that you need to catch!

 

Iván Meade – What would be your dream project?

Amber Kingsnorth - If we're really talking 'Dream' jobs ... I would love for Jenna Lyons (President and Creative Director of J. Crew) to call me up asking me to re-design their flagship store, conceptualize a years worth of art installations for their store windows and design her personal home ... And then we would become friends, of course :) *
*this will likely come back to haunt me in a future interview ... Or if Jenna ever does call!

 

Interiors by Amber Kingsnorth

Iván Meade – You always have at least one stroke of genius in terms of repurposing in your projects – where does that inspiration come from?

 
Amber Kingsnorth -  This is definitely a product of my childhood!  My Dad can often be heard saying 'Hey! You know what you could do with this?! ...' while holding up some construction cast-off.  Well, that turned out to be hereditary :)  

Seeing the potential in ordinary objects and having that light-bulb moment is something that I've refined through my design work.  What started as a way of achieving impact on a budget, has revealed itself to be an important aspect of my work; giving new spaces a feeling of familiarity and meaning.  These customized touches always end up being the most memorable.

 

Interiors by Amber Kingsnorth

Iván Meade – Now that you are officially flying solo with your firm, how would you describe your style? Feel free to answer this either personally, or as a company – we also won't complain if we get both!

Amber Kingsnorth - I'd call it Modern With Meaning.  No matter what type of space I design, it must has to strike a chord with those who are intended to use it.  I personally prefer modern spaces with an injection of fun through colour, pattern, or those unexpected touches to keep things from getting too austere or predictable. 

 

Interiors by Amber Kingsnorth

Iván Meade – What is your favourite thing about being a designer?

Amber Kingsnorth - The parties of course!  I kid :)
I have two favourites:
1)  Working both sides of my brain.  Design allows me to test the limits of my creativity and be very analytical and technical at the same time.  
2)  Inspiration is on my to-do list.  My job is literally to be inspired by my clients and their stories and to return the favour through my work.  Not bad!

 

Interiors by Amber Kingsnorth

Iván Meade – What is the best advice you have received – design related or otherwise?

Amber Kingsnorth - When you give, you are never without :)

 

Interiors by Amber Kingsnorth

Iván Meade – Back in 2010 I asked "Do you think Victoria is ready for a change? Where do you see things going in the next ten years?" and you had replied "YES. Since entering the field 6 years ago, we’ve noticed a huge shift in the design community. Designers are finally seeing each other as colleagues rather than competition, sharing ideas, sources, information, horror stories… and it’s great!" How do you feel about your prediction so far? Would you adapt it, agree with it, or change it completely 3 years later?

Amber Kingsnorth - I have to stick with my prediction, see question #2 :)

 

Interiors by Amber Kingsnorth

Iván Meade – Likewise, one final question - would you have changed your legacy from "we just want to love what we do everyday and know that people are enjoying the spaces we’ve designed"?

Amber Kingsnorth - I wouldn't necessarily re-write that answer but I can add to it; enjoying the space isn't enough, I want my clients to feel that the investment in their space has a measurable return to them.  For my commercial clients that may mean keeping their overhead low by making efficient use of less square footage, better employee retention & workflow, and a greater experience for their own customers or patients.  For my residential clients that could be an increase in the value of their property, or a more enjoyable homelife in a space that supports and encourages what they love to do.  I hope my legacy is that I opened people's eyes to the value of a well-designed space.

 

Interiors by Amber Kingsnorth

 

I invite you to visit Amber’s stunning body of work and to read her fantastic blog at:

 

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011

IN CONVERSATION WITH JEFF SMITH

Jeff Smith

 

Jeff Smith is the owner of Smith Designs, a reputable and innovative architectural and interior design firm in Victoria BC. I admire Jeff’s attention to detail and his ability to tackle any style of project while continuing to find new solutions that are both functional and beautiful. Smith Designs has also not only worked on a range of styles, but also project types (residential to commercial) and locations (local and international).

 

In business since 1987 and the recipient of multiple CHBA CARE Awards, and Georgie nominations, Smith Designs is known for the words that Jeff lives by “Clean, focused and finished”. The company is also renowned for the customer service and personal attention given to each project.

 

I can’t wait to get Jeff’s input on design (locally and globally), please read on to get in on the conversation…

 
Iván Meade - What was your first experience with design?

Jeff Smith -My mother loved wallpapering, so I had to learn to survive.... my childhood daydreaming was renovation.

 

Interiors by Jeff Smith

 

Iván Meade - What is your favorite local find? Where did you get this item?

Jeff Smith – A teachers 'learning' to read book with Janet and Jack and Lucky the dog and Puff the kitten from the 30's, It makes me smile and think of innocence and unbridled joy. I bought it in a thrift store twenty odd years ago. I thought I'd use it in a child's room one day but have yet been able to give it up. 

 

Interiors by Jeff Smith

 

Iván Meade – Why is important to you? How does this item reflect upon your personal design philosophy?

 

Jeff Smith – To embrace new technology, be open to discovery and never be afraid to try something new. Design is an organic process that sometimes can take you by the hand and lead you to something innovative and fresh.

 

Interiors by Jeff Smith

 
Iván Meade – What is unique to contemporary west coast design?  I believe you are breaking the mold and showcasing your work in a new and more up to date interpretation of west coast design – how do you achieve this?

Jeff Smith - I think we have come to a point in time that we no longer have to apologize for our love affair with nature and our more laid back west coast lifestyle. That doesn't have to mean driftwood railings and beer can art, it simply means we've found the balance where contemporary living incorporates a new sensitivity to nature and quality of life style. Our homes and offices should support our personalities and not cause us to stumble throughout the day. I try to be honest to the space and incorporate new elements that reflect light and offer up a fresh attitude.

 

Interiors by Jeff Smith

 
Iván Meade – I noticed that in your projects you like to use chrome, I actually should say a custom use of chrome; which definitely adds a sense of uniqueness to each of your projects.  How do you sell the idea of custom to your clients?

Jeff Smith - Custom work is like a fingerprint , uniquely yours. It expresses an individuality that I feel is important in almost every project...and it often is the only way to resolve design issues when they come up. We always have said there are no problems, only solutions. Not all solutions are in a tidy box at your local supply store. So if custom is where you end up, just make it beautiful . 

 

Interiors by Jeff Smith

 
Iván Meade - Space nowadays is at a premium – As a designer, it is clear that the adequate use of space is really important to you, but how do you incorporate these principles into your personal home?

Jeff Smith -For me, the truth in design lays in the act of reduction. Its easy to fill a space with a lot of beautiful objects but that doesn't make the room beautiful. Again, balance is the operative word. finding that place where anything less isn't enough and anything more is, well, too much. Let the space breathe, give it light and let the elements have their 15 minutes of fame...and all that other stuff, get rid of it. Enjoy what you have.

 

Interiors by Jeff Smith

 
Iván Meade - What is the most practical thing that you own and what is the most rare?

Jeff Smith - My sense of humour is a practical aspect in my work. This industry involves a lot of on the spot decision making, mix in some handholding of nervous (never renovated before) clients, trades people, and shipping and handling of products and equipment, neither of which tend to show up when you really, really want them  and you better have a healthy sense of humour. The most rare is a tough question. I love art, each one different and each with something that makes me love it everyday. I find I don't covet one over the next, a piece from 300 years ago can hold the same value to me as something I picked up yesterday. Put them close in the same environment, and see the dialogue they have have together, its that juxtaposition, that playful contrast, that is rare.

 

Interiors by Jeff Smith

 
Iván Meade - If you could design a home for anyone, who would it be?

Jeff Smith – I loved this question. We all have our heroes. In history and in contemporary life. If I had to pick one, Marcel Duchamp.  I think as a client, he'd be amazing and his input would be engaging and challenging. I'd get to explore all aspects of positive and negative space, review preconceptions and journey down a new path of discovery. My design wouldn't necessarily involve a uninal in the living room.

 

 

Interiors by Jeff Smith

Iván Meade - What are you excited about right now in the world of design?

Jeff Smith – New technology integrating into environment. I love the idea of seamless living where all the bells and whistles are there but not visible. Remember those ginormous speakers you had in University, or the television to had to get up to turn a knob to change channels?

 

Interiors by Jeff Smith

 
Iván Meade - What project has given you the most satisfaction?

 

Jeff Smith - I've been blessed with amazing projects and clients who have been open to wonder and change. I couldn't possibly compare one from the next because each one is different and special. Having said that, the projects that have spanned a couple decades, where we staged out the renovations in five year increments, and I've watched their families grow up, and their homes evolve, fulfilling  their wish lists...they are my warm cuppa on a chilly windy day.

 

Interiors by Jeff Smith

 
Iván Meade –  Lastly, you have already created a stunning body of work with many mediums and styles. What would you like your legacy to be?

Jeff Smith - That people would say 'He helped us to see more, find a softer, kinder way of living'

 

I invite you visit Jeff Smith’s stunning body of work at:

 

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011

IN CONVERSATION WITH JEAN-LOUIS DENIOT

Jean-Louis Deniot

 

I am so excited to have an interview with my current favourite designer, Jean-Louis Deniot. The Parisian design star’s work has graced the pages of Elle Décor, Vogue, House Beautiful, House & Garden, and several different countries’ editions of Architectural Digest. His style has a strong emphasis on symmetry and is effortlessly comfortable, neoclassically inspired, soft and neutral yet never boring due to the right mix of eclecticism - juxtaposed eras and materials. Says Jean Louis himself: “I don’t do pure contemporary as to me, it has no soul. I need history in my work!”.

 

After receiving his diploma from the Ecole Comondo in 2000, Jean opened his own namesake firm (later joined by his sister Virginie) in Paris, France. Since then, the firm has grown to have 15 employees, a spot on the New AD 100, it’s own furniture lines, and a collection of antiques for sale. He’s had the opportunity to work not only throughout France, but in far off places such as Dubai, Russia, America, and even the Himalayas!

 

…Alas, he is living my dream!

 

I can’t wait to pick Jean-Louis Deniot’s brain for his take on the current design scene, please read on to get in on the conversation…

 

Iván Meade - What was your first experience with design?

 

Jean-Louis Deniot - My first experiences with design came very early on. I started drawing and painting at the age of three and progressed to making models of miniature architecture structures and interior decors by the age of ten.  I experimented with many different styles such colonial, art deco, French country, contemporary Californian, Indian, Parisian… My parents have saved some of them.  At the age of twelve, I understood that I was destined to do interior design and architecture for a living.  It was very clear to me.  Today, each project that I do is a like a first time design experience.

 

Interior Design by Jean-Louis Deniot

 

Iván Meade - You have had projects in various locations around the world including New Delhi, Moscow, United States, and Dubai. When designing for international clients what were some of the differences in culture or possibly climate that you had to be mindful of?

 

Jean-Louis Deniot - Each destination is a breath of fresh air; it keeps the creative juices flowing and the mind wide open. I embrace each culture and location by very discretely injecting their local influences into my projects.  For the most part, my clients contact me as they want something French. My job is then to deliver a French style but with a subtle dose of local flair.  You cannot design an apartment in Paris the same way you would one in London, New York, Moscow, Istanbul or New Delhi.  It is crucial that the result feels appropriate to the country where the apartment is located.  My decors are a backdrop for each person, each personality, each nationality.  My decors are elaborated to make them look like the great, smart, sophisticated, and worldly personalities that they are, all while completely respecting their local traditions.

Interiors by Jean-Louis Deniot

 

Iván Meade - What project has given you the most satisfaction?

 

Jean-Louis Deniot - Each and every project has given me satisfaction as each one has helped me to grow.  I work only on projects I like, with people I like,  so there is no effort of any sort. As I am passionate about every project I select and work on, I give myself entirely to it.  I am very lucky to work with amazingly great clients, and with incredible laborers, craftsmen, and artisans. Each project is an achievement and I am always looking forward to the next one! I can never have enough, I always need more! Bigger and better!

 

Interiors by Jean-Louis Deniot

 

Iván Meade - What is the best advice you could give to somebody who is new in the world of design?

 

Jean-Louis Deniot - I would recommend that they do what they feel and not to follow the crowd. I would suggest that they work with their own sense of color, their own combinations and influences. Do not try to copy or directly translate an inspiration as it will look weak. Try to take risks, use your imagination and create something that we have not seen before. Most importantly, inject LOVE into everything you do.  One can see the attention and feeling in the end result; it really comes through.

 

Interiors by Jean-Louis Deniot

 

Iván Meade - You use rare and unusual materials in your interiors, what is your favorite new find at the moment?

 

Jean-Louis Deniot - The new materials I use come from amazing artisans. For example, Florence Girette who is a fabulous decorative painter.  She paints under glass; it’s AMAZING! She has such a great talent that she turns a simple piece of glass into a 50 carat jewel. It is also one’s designs that make interesting materials even more fabulous.  When using a basic material, it’s all about how the artisan works it to turn it into something fantastic.

 

Interiors by Jean-Louis Deniot

 

Iván Meade - When designing with such a large array of different finishes how do you keep your interiors from feeling too busy?

 

Jean-Louis Deniot - A décor is like a painting; its all about the masses, the color placement, the volumes, the proportion, the contrast etc. to achieve the right balance. Its about layers; some are predominant and some are just a back drop.  When the materials aesthetic are weak, you play with a strong piece of furniture or a stronger pattern.  When the materials are strong, you then accentuate with lower key accessories . A décor is an like a 3D composition; all the elements relate and connect making something happen between all the elements from one room to another, creating an exciting story.

 

Interiors by Jean-Louis Deniot

 

Iván Meade - The selection of your furniture pieces is always exquisite - What inspired you to include pieces in your projects that are no longer commonly used in today’s homes?

 

Jean-Louis Deniot - Furnishing and I have an ongoing love story since forever. I love furnishing, I can find beauty and interest in so many places.  You can tell there is also love when you see the selection. I have to be in love with a piece to appreciate its beauty and to place it where it can achieve its maximum decorative power so it can shine. I have two people who source antiques and vintage pieces all week long, from every market possible. I prefer to use vintage pieces as they have more of a uniqueness to them and more personality.  With the right pieces, I can create any scenario; it would be much harder if I had to deal only with new pieces.

 

Interiors by Jean-Louis Deniot

 

Iván Meade - You have accomplished something very unique in the interior design world; creating a strong, extremely well recognized and beautiful signature style - In this same manner however, your style keeps evolving - How or where do you find your inspiration?

 

Jean-Louis Deniot - I find inspiration in my travels. I can get ideas looking at facades, a trash can, a billboard, etc. The weirdest of things can catch my eye and when they do, I snap them with my Blackberry so I can remember them.  Sometimes the inspiration I find is so abstract that I have to write it down. I keep several lists in my phone for different projects and also a ‘general’ one which I am constantly adding to.  I write everything down so that when I discuss a project with the architects and decorators in my office, I already have a web of ideas which gives them a better understanding of my direction. I also have other inspiration lists for future opportunities, waiting to take life.

 

Interiors by Jean-Louis Deniot

 

Iván Meade - If you were not an interior designer, what other profession would you like to do?

 

Jean-Louis Deniot - It is impossible for me to imagine doing anything else. This has been in my veins forever so I wouldn’t wish to do anything else. Any other job would be torturous for me as designing is my own is pure pleasure, joy and excitement.

 

Interior by Jean-Louis Deniot

 

Iván Meade - What is luxury for you?

 

Jean-Louis Deniot - Luxury is only understood by people who are sensitive about it. So many people think that wearing Roberto Cavalli while sipping Cristal in a Bentley is luxury which is not actually the case at all, its actually mega tacky!  Luxury is all about discretion; you cannot really see it but you can feel it. Clients never ever mention this word, it’s very inappropriate, as obviously it is already understood that it is or will be luxurious. Luxury is an understated exceptional for example, a light suede jacket lined with the thinnest cashmere.  No labels exposed, never obvious, luxury has to be personal. Something exceptional that only a few can access. Luxury equals uniqueness.

 

Interiors by Jean-Louis Deniot

 

Iván Meade - What is the best advice you have received in your career as a designer?

 

Jean-Louis Deniot - I never really receive advice from other people as I always listen to my instinct. I wouldn’t follow anyone’s advice anyway… I never sought to duplicate someone else’s experience, I wanted to build my own. I was always inspired by the careers of the great masters such as Albert Pinto, Jacques Grange, Jacques Garcia, François Catroux, Maison Jansen, Henri Samuel.  These people have inspired me to reach the same level as them.

 

Interiors by Jean-Louis Deniot

 

Iván Meade - Lastly, you have already created a stunning body of work with many mediums and styles. What would you like your legacy to be?

 

Jean-Louis Deniot - I consider myself to be right at the beginning of my career. I have just turned 38 and in this business, you can easily continue until you’re 80 years old so I have a long way to go, and a huge amount of work to produce.

 

 

I invite you to visit Jean_Louis Deniot’s  stunning body of work at:

 

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011