ALWAYS AUTHENTIC!

Last autumn, I had the opportunity to spend some time in Europe. One of my favourite memories was a visit to my cousin Inés Benavides’ home in Madrid and spending some time with her.  Inés is not only one of my favourite cousins, but she is also considered to be one of the top interior designers in Spain, so you can imagine how excited I was to share some time with her.

 

 

Other than securing the position as favourite cousin while enjoying my time with her, I also learned a couple of things.  Inés is not just well regarded as an interior designer  in Spain; she is also an accomplished furniture designer.   She has been designing pieces for the last 10 years with her cousin, Phil, under their firm Benavides y Camino.

 

 

One of Inés pieces “The Prensa” (Spanish for pressed, or squished) has become a signature piece for her and is rapidly becoming a staple in Spanish and European design.  Many of her design colleagues are supporting her in her venture, using the piece to inject fun and colour into their designs.  

 

 

One of the conversations we had was about something that is becoming a real problem across several industries – plagiarism. Sadly, as a result of her notoriety, people are now copying her work and taking advantage of her creativity.  With her piece, “The Prensa”, rising in popularity, it has subsequently had a tremendous rise of knock-offs hitting the market – so much so, in fact, that she had to go to great lengths to copyright the piece. 

When someone steals another’s  idea, they are completely ignoring the process that it takes to conceive an original piece. For example, the time spent sketching, sculpting and planning the conceptual stages, the cost of making  prototypes in addition to supporting the artisans that make these pieces.  

In our conversation, we discovered that we shared a similar theory that there are 3 kinds of designers out there:  (1) The designer who creates a signature piece/style and  deserves the recognition for their efforts, (2) the designer that supports and admires original pieces of works – that takes them as inspiration and re- invents them in their own way,  or uses the original pieces in their work supporting the original creators, and lastly (3) the designer who takes advantage and literally copies the work without any respect or ethics. 

 

 

 

Ross Taylor owner of Gabriel Ross has the best tag line for his business, and has been a big supporter of this movement – Gabriel Ross tag line really encompasses the real value of design  “Always Authentic” – As creatives we have the obligation to be “Always Authentic” and overall original.  This is the core of any creative business.

 

We have all seen this tragedy happen - particularly with mid-century modern classics by Eames, Saarinen and the like – but I wanted to bring awareness to Ines’s talent and spread the word about her original pieces. Like all good design, beware of knock-offs, you get what you pay for!

Support original talent, do your research and invest wisely!

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011

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

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

The team here at MEADE DESIGN GROUP want to wish everyone and their families a very Happy Holidays and all the best in the new year!

We hope you enjoy our extra special video message below!

 

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011

autonomous FURNITURE COLLECTIVE

One of the most exciting  projects we have worked on this year is the development of the brand and graphic identity for Autonomous Furniture Collective.  A Victoria BC based company that develops furniture made with traceable resources by local designers.

 

I had the pleasure of meeting Kirk Van Ludwig and Jodie Webb a long time ago, and when they decided to start their own furniture company they, invited me to be involved with the graphics and brand direction.   Since the first meeting I was blown away with their product and concept for their shop.  After our first meeting I knew we needed to design something that is relatable not just locally but globally.  Their product has so many unique qualities that I wanted to be part of the brand: traceability, local design, quality design, unique materials, and the list keeps going.

 

Alta Table by Autonomous Furniture Collective

 

To have a solid product in the marketplace we needed to start developing a brand that will complement the product and the idea behind it, as well as where the product was going to be sold.  After all, Autonomous is a new business and we wanted to use their fresh approach as an advantage.

 

Walnut  Coffee Table and Ebony Bow Tie Detail

After much deliberation, the name was decided: “Autonomous Furniture Collective” – We wanted to give the shop a gallery feel and create a new experience for every customer.  Every time you purchase a piece you will know where the history of the wood or other materials used – their former life and where they are coming from; in addition to the designer of the piece – Autonomous’s designers are mostly local and talented artisans that are members of the Furniture Collective.  People who appreciates good design, quality, and timeless pieces that act as sculptural forms while maintaining their ability to be used in everyday life. The pieces become a part of your home and lifestyle developing a nice natural patina and depth.  Aging as they would in nature.

 

 

After we had the logo designed we needed to position the company, so we came up with a phrase to distinguish them in the marketplace - “the new west coast”. This phrase was born as a way to let the customers know that this is a new product and that it is possible to re-invent what people consider to be pure west-coast design.  After all, the main material in their furniture pieces is sourced in the west coast. We further this notion with the phrase “Sculptural forms that are at once urban and rural”.

 

 

With all the brand elements and logo in place it was time to start having some fun and develop their stationary package.  We wanted something sexy, unique and memorable; just like their pieces of furniture.  We selected a beautifully textured, thick paper in black and we foiled the card in gold to reflect that they are current and that the product is pure quality. 

 

 

The launch of the brand was at IDS West this year and it was extremely well received, the pieces have already been invited to 3 of the most prestigious show rooms in Vancouver.  Thanks to the power of social media, design gurus such as Margot Austin and Joe Ruggiero have shown interest in the pieces which is an incredible sign.

 

IDWest 2013

 

All in all we cannot wait to see how far Autonomous will go in spreading the product around the world.

 

Intrigued???  Visit their new showroom and be surprised!!!

 

2101 Government Street, Victoria B.C  V8T 4P2

www.autonomousfurniture.com

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 KYLA BIDGOOD

As seen in SNAP

Kyla Bidgood

 

You may recognize this name around town – and I believe it will only continue to become more recognized as her career forges ahead – the name is Kyla Bidgood, a registered interior designer right here in Victoria BC. Kyla has been featured in local publications, is very active in the design community (including being a committee member for IDIBC: Vancouver Island Chapter) and has done some guest speaking at design events. You may even recognize her from right here on our blog, we had previouslyinterviewed Inoui Design in 2010, but with change in environment comes change in perspective, and I wanted to follow up with Ms Bidgood for a fresh new interview.

 

She now has her own boutique namesake firm, Kyla Bidgood Interior Design, after years of experience with some of the best designers in the city. I couldn't describe her philosophy better than these words which come straight from her website: "With every project I strive to open my client’s eyes to new possibilities, spatially translating their brand or style into an interior that surpasses their initialvision. I create meaningful and enduring environments that perfectly align with both my client’s budget and needs".

 

Interiors by Kyla Bidgood

 

Taking on projects from various fields – residential, commercial, and hospitality alike – she approaches each one with passion which has had award winning results. With her attention to detail, innovative thinking and approachable attitude, it's not wonder Kyla has a long list of happy clients with beautiful spaces.

 

Ready to find out what Victoria's young design scene is up to right now? Read on to get in on the conversation…

 

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

 

Kyla Bidgood – Quite a bit! I tested the corporate waters and worked for a large design firm for 6 months, on a range of large-scale projects including a university, a hospital and several airport concessions. I love commercial work, but what I found most valuable from the experience was re- discovering where my heart truly lies: with highly creative, boutique projects. You can really only have complete creative control with projects of a certain size. So I ventured out solo working under my own name, with a focus on out of the box retail, hospitality, office and residential projects.

 

Interiors by Kyla Bidgood

 

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

 

Kyla Bidgood – No surprise here: I get geek-giddy over colour and pattern. Bold repetition, mixed with the right combination of scales & textures is perfection in my world. Throw in a bright pop of colour in an unexpected place, like hardware or fixtures, and that’s the cherry on the cake. I also love incorporating unexpected historic details into modern spaces, like turned wood spindles or abstract patterns tufted into upholstery. But ask me tomorrow and the list would be completely different. I have commitment issues when it comes to design, everyday I’m excited about doing something new.

 

Interiors by Kyla Bidgood

 

Iván Meade – What is on the horizon for Kyla Bidgood interior Design?

 

Kyla Bidgood – I’ve recently started a magical collaborating with the multi-talented and graphically gifted Sarah McNeil. We’ve pooled our skills and similar aesthetic to seamlessly integrate interior design with window graphics, custom wallpapers & signage for Blenz Coffee in Vancouver. A well-branded company goes beyond a logo, the entire experience from the second you step in their door should communicate a company’s culture, values and vibe. Understanding a companies brand and developing their branded interior is something I thrive at.

 

Interiors by Kyla Bidgood

 

Iván Meade – What would be your dream project?

 

Kyla Bidgood – I am busting at the seams to do a restaurant. Since I’m hopelessly lazy when it comes to cooking I eat out often, and every time I redesign the restaurant space in my mind. I have so many great ideas banked, I would love to give Victorians and Vancouverites a new dining experience, something buzzworthy, totally out of the box different.

 

Interiors by Kyla Bidgood

 

Iván Meade – I find your projects to be consistently fresh, cheerful/playful and sophisticated yet urban. How is this balance achieved?

 

Kyla Bidgood – Why thank you Ivan! My aesthetic is at a constant tug war with itself. On one hand I adore the simplicity, materials and craft of Scandinavian and mid century modern design, and on the other hand I’m a total sucker for over the top pattern, colour and whimsical concepts. I think the method to my madness is interweaving these two extremes into a refined eclecticism. It’s about striking a carefully curated balance without going overboard.

 

Interiors by Kyla Bidgood

 

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!  

 

Kyla Bidgood – Fun, modern & eclectic. I think the same can be said for my personal style. My house is a laboratory where I experiment with ideas that might be too bold for some clients. For example, my living room is painted a dark ink-blue and an artist friend of mine Miguel Afonso da Conceicao created a large scale instillation with hot pink yarn covering all the walls, kind of like a non-repeating geometric wallpaper pattern. I also wallpapered the ceiling in my home office with a small-scale white, gold & black triangle print. Experiments paid off, looks amazing!  

 

  Interiors by Kyla Bidgood

 

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

 

Kyla Bidgood – Everyday, every project, and every client is so vastly different from the next, no day is ever repeated. I am never bored, always challenged, and constantly being inspired by new things. I heart my job, and I can’t imagine doing anything else for a living.    

 

  Interiors by Kyla Bidgood

 

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

 

Kyla Bidgood – “Worry is a misuse of your imagination” and “Change is the only constant”. Truer words were never spoken!

 

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

 

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011