Name: Justine Knox
Company: Knox Design
Position within company: Owner / Designer
Website: www.knoxdesign.net
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I have always been interested in the aesthetics of a room’s design and furnishing and my first project was probably when I was given carte blanche to decorate my bedroom at the age of 12. I chose furniture to fit a very small space but giving myself a desk space, bed, storage, and even a cosy corner for reading. I used coordinating fabrics and wallpapers to complete the décor and fell in love with the results.
I have lived in Mallorca since 1984 and have created many second homes for my clients over the last 16 years as an interior designer. I founded Knox Design in 2004 and we now have a 1000 m2 Home Store, a strategically located Concept Store and a dedicated Design Studio.
How would you describe your personal interior design style?
I would describe my style as eclectic and colourful. I like to mix styles together and encourage my clients to be a bit more brave and bold than they would normally be. I am always respectful of the property´s features and architecture, as I believe in complementing and enhancing existing structures through my designs. I always add personality to a home, that would be my trademark.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
I travel a lot and am inspired daily by everything around me. I look at a project for the first time and can normally visualise the end result in my mind’s eye within a very short period of time. I quite often give myself the challenge of finding a unique piece or else work with my team to create bespoke pieces. I also like to create a home to suit how my clients would like to feel in this space, glamorous, cosy, casual….
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I believe design trends change according to the economic climate at that time. When the economy dips we see mo
re colour appear in home décor in an attempt to lift spirits.
I have observed a return to some of the classic styles whilst hi-tech is still on the increase.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2017 and beyond.
A practical approach to suite clients’ lifestyles
Stylish blend of materials
Attention to budget
Keeping quality high
Creating a story
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be?
Trust in using a designer who will save costly mistakes and create a home to be proud of and allow your designer to be brave with suggestions.
How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
The awards are a great way of recognising talent and achievement and giving us a goal to keep improving our skills.
What projects are you currently working on?
I am currently working on a second interior design project for a client´s first home in the UK which is a nice change of scene for me.
I am redesigning the bathrooms in a large villa used for holidays.
I have a complete interior design project here in Mallorca for a Russian family to complete by March.
I am working with our architect on adding an extension to a villa I completed 2 years ago.
We have expanded our fabric’s studio and are opening our new concept store this year too.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Our aims are to continue offering the best service possible to all of our clients and keep finding fabulous products for their homes.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession?
My Family
Your favourite holiday destination?
Asia
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
An Lam Villas – Vietnam
Your favourite book / film / song?
I mostly read books on business but recently read “me before you” I enjoy films that either make me laugh or are real drama.
Your favourite food and drink?
I love well made and presented food and enjoy a good wine to go with it.
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? (in no more than 25 words)
In a sunny climate, having a massage, reading a book, then dinner with family and friends.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
I honestly cannot imagine loving anything more than what I currently do each day. Maybe a mentor, as I love helping people.
I speak fluent Spanish, am a trained Scuba diver and can water divine.
For a list of Knox Design’s shortlisted projects, please click here.