Philosophy
A few words on how we work using a Q & A format
How do you start working with your clients?
I believe that it is vital to listen. The first meeting is about establishing a connection with your client and understanding their vision. Many clients know what they want but often find this hard to articulate. That's why you are there, to help them visualise their dream. Others have a crystal clear brief from the outset.
When you have genuine empathy, it is an amazing journey. It is a privilege to help your client create their stunning dream home. Nothing beats the feeling of seeing the joy it brings them.
How do you approach a project?
You must understand how your clients live and make sure that the spatial layout works for them. This is incredibly important as it allows them to move around their home effortlessly.
Next, you start to build in layers of the owner's personality so it seamlessly becomes the very essence of the building. A scheme can come from a painting, a favourite trip or film, a memory or a beautiful texture. This is the creative, fun part of the process that most clients love.
Balance is important. A home must be practical as well as beautiful, or it will not create a sense of well-being.
You must also balance the often diverse requirements of the people who live there. Lastly, you should always try to balance your clients’ needs now and how they will use their homes in the future, particularly if you are undertaking structural work.
Once everyone is on the same page and a design has been agreed, you call in the craftsmen and women. I am lucky enough to have a huge range of very skilled people whom I have worked with for years. I trust them, and I am in awe of their skills.
When working internationally, do your designs reflect the local environment?
That depends on the client. Some clients prefer to have the same AV system in their homes, whichever continent they are on. Enabling them to operate everything easily. Others need the same bed, but I have never had a client who wished to create a replica of their UK home in another country.
I believe the design style and materials should reflect the climate and incorporate local culture without becoming a pastiche. It's important to remember that your client wants to feel different in their Caribbean home from their home in Europe, but they are still the same people. Multiple homes allow them to emphasize different aspects of their personalities.
How important is trust?
Trust and empathy are absolute requisites.
Almost all my projects are completely custom made, with absolute attention to detail, and specifically tailored to each client. This means sourcing the best materials and craftspeople but at a cost representing the best value for the substantial budgets your client has entrusted you with.
You are responsible for creating the spaces that affect your clients' lives every day. This is a huge responsibility; the greater the trust, the better the result.
Absolute discretion is paramount. The more you understand their lives, the better the outcome, so clients need to trust you with the details of their daily lives, even if they are in the public eye.
