Name: Cristina Wakamatsu
Company: LW Design
Position within company: Partner, Design Director
Website: www.lw.co
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I graduated in Brazil and begin my career in Japan where I developed my skills on the efficient use of resources and attention to detail. Since then I have worked in Milan, London and Dubai along with renowned European architecture practices.
How would you describe your personal interior design style?
Simple, elegant, contemporary.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
My inspiration comes from the local context, culture and daily lifestyle.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I think the design is moving towards a more sustainable direction, taking advantage of the latest technologies but with a sense of place and context.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design.
Sustainability, Lifestyle, Nature, Technology, Urbanism
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be?
To look at a space always from a human perspective and context to create a sense of place.
How important are The International Hotel & Property Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
I think its very rewarding to recognise all the work and passion the designers put on every project.
What projects are you currently working on?
Mixed use high end residential complex in Dubai, a 45 storey tower in Dubai, a touristic centre in Sao Paulo downtown.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Travel around the world to explore new cultures and be inspired by them.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession?
My creativity.
Your favourite holiday destination?
An adventurous one like Machu Picchu in Peru and Patagonia in Argentina.
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Park Hyatt, Tokyo; Gabriel Kreuther, New York; Sky Bar, Sao Paulo.
Your favourite book, film & song?
Any inspirational leadership book, Lawrance of Arabia, Dindi – Tom Jobim.
Your favourite food and drink?
Japanese food, herbal tea
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
In a spa treatment.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
In the fashion industry, in a design capacity.
Anything else interesting?
I love my work as a designer.