Name: BEN LEWIS
Company: TRENZSEATER
Position within company: GENERAL MANAGER – HEAD INTERIOR DESIGNER
Website:www.trenzseater.com
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
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 product 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 product.
How would you describe your personal design style?
It is sophisticated, elegant and opulent. It is design with intriguing layers of classic textures and materials, encapsulating refinement set on a grand scale. Classic & Timeless.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
I am continuously inspired each day by design, through architecture, interior design and classic furniture design where there classic detailing provided a signature style. I also enjoy, and are inspired by fashion, art and antiques. Natural materials inspire me for their unique, classic qualities, marbles, stone and the character you get from solid timbers.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I believe design is moving towards interiors which are eloquently layered providing layers of interest and 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.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2020 and beyond.
Include intriguing layers of texture, pattern & design.
Incorporate an element of colour in an interesting, subtly manner.
The use of opulent, grand scale objects in your design is pivotal.
The use of a diverse mix of materials that work harmoniously together.
Incorporate well-appointed table lamps, floor lamps and pendants in your design.
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Definitely, to have an eye for detail, it’s the detail which sets a design apart from the ordinary and makes it something unique and special.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
I believe such a competition as prestigious as this is, celebrates those who excel in interior design and gives inspiration to those who are new to the industry, a competition like this fosters growth and excitement.
What projects are you currently working on?
Currently some very exciting projects, a Italian Villa which is set on the New Zealand coast with spectacular ocean views, a series of luxury lodges & pavilions which have extraordinary picturesque lakeside vistas. There is also several beautifully appointed architectural homes throughout New Zealand which are all currently in progress at various stages.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
To continue to deliver a high level of interior design work to our clients along with exploring international opportunities.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession? Memories, family and life
Your favourite holiday destination? Lake Como in Italy along with Queenstown – New Zealand
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar? Woodpecker Hill in Auckland + Bluebird in London ,Chelsea
Your favourite book, film & song? “A Good Year”
Your favourite food and drink? Italian, Pinot Noir Rose
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? Life is short, and kids grow up too quick so the perfect afternoon would be spent with our kids enjoying every moment we have together in the sun next to the pool, followed by a beautiful family dinner in our sunroom.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be? A property developer
Anything else interesting? I love quotes “There are many things in life that will catch your eye, but only a few will catch your heart, pursue those”. “DREAM BIG, THINK BIG, GO BIG”
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