Name: Christian Dorin
Company: Dorin & Coppel
Position within company: Founder / Director
Website: www.dorinandcoppel.com

 Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I studied architecture at the Manchester School of Architecture and Masters at the Bartlett School of Architecture in London. Following this I worked at renowned architecture practice Richard Rogers on the Chelsea Barracks project during the planning stages. I then worked at Candy & Candy where I worked on private client projects in London and worldwide. From my experience at Candy & Candy I then launched Dorin & Coppel with my business partner who was also at Candy & Candy and from here we now work with many private clients from across the globe.

How would you describe your personal interior design style?
My personal style is certainly minimalist, with elements of modern rustic.

Where does your design inspiration come from?
My inspiration comes from travel and the experiences I have had on my worldwide travels to four reaching destinations.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I feel we are moving to an age of technology dependence and interiors that are now focused on the demands of a fast pace modern life.  Interior that allow this and provide relax and recovery seem to be most in demand.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2017 and beyond.
Technology, meditation, relaxation, light, well being.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be?
Use the effects of texture to your advantages.

How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
It is an important Awards to recognise talent and special projects.

What projects are you currently working on?
We are working on a very exciting private members bar & restaurant in Notting Hill soon to open in 2017. We are also onsite in Dubai on a fantastic modern villa proposal as well as a residential penthouse in Accra, Ghana.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
We are aiming to increase our International residential sector in Ibiza, Middle East and the Americas.

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession? Kodak Camera
Your favourite holiday destination? Sri Lanka
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar? Emerson on Hurumzi, Zanzibar
Your favourite book / film / song? City of God
Your favourite food and drink? Spaguetti con vongole e cotze
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? With friends and family having some food and drinks at home near the fireplace if it´s winter or in my garden if it´s sunny and warm. That could be my favourite afternoon.

If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
A Conservationist.

For a list of Dorin & Coppel’s shortlisted projects, please click here.