Name: Rupert Bevan
Company: Rupert Bevan Ltd

Position within company: Founder / Owner / CEO
Website: rupertbevan.com

. Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)

My background is primarily in craftsmanship rather than design. I learned a vast amount from the apprenticeship I did in gilding and restoration, which taught me how to use an endless variety of materials and techniques. In terms of design my background is in having worked with a bewildering array of antique furniture from many different eras; from 17th century elm commodes to 20th century brasswork.

. How would you describe your personal interior design style?

Eclectic. I love objects and display, so given the chance I would probably choose to live in a cabinet of curiosities! I like objects that have a history or tell a story, especially if they also have a function. Which explains my collection of kitchen paraphernalia…

. Where does your design inspiration come from?

I think it comes from traipsing around museums. I love the V&A, and in my youth I used to spend most of my time at weekends lurching from one gallery and exhibition to another

. In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?

Design is so dynamic and varied that I don’t think the overall direction it is moving in is predetermined. What we do know is that trends and fashions are revived and reinvented, things often come back around. In terms of more short term direction I think we are coming to the end of the endless 1950’s vintage retro vibe and heading towards more daring, lavish interiors. I think this will take inspiration from the Baroque era and from the glamour of the 1920’s and 1970’s.

. Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2015 and beyond.
Reflective surfaces such as mirrored finishes and metalowork
Textured and tactile finishes, such as fretted metalwork
Raw timbers and more natural materials
Luxury items such as drinks cabinets and games tables
Bespoke, sensitively designed kitchens

. If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to product design, what would it be?

Keep the surfaces as natural as possible so they can be easily maintained and restored. This means the piece can achieve a timelessness and longevity which it might not have if the only consideration is what it will look like when newly made.

. How important are The International Product Design Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?

I think they are hugely important, as they provide a platform for designers and makers to celebrate their work and share it with a huge audience within the industry, hopefully allowing them to understand and appreciate the work of the designers more.

. What projects are you currently working on?

Most of the projects I work on are obviously top secret! But I can tell you that I have recently completed the interiors of a beautiful house in Kensington, a fantastic brass clad kitchen, and a stunning dressing room in decorated Verre Églomisé.

. What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?

I am planning to expand the mirror glass aspect of my company, with a larger studio/workshop space and the potential to create an even larger collection of surfaces and specialist finishes.
Continuing to make designers aware of the endless possibilities and huge range of options my company offers with its bespoke service, as often people are only aware of one of our areas of expertise whether it be the furniture, interior finishes or mirror glass.

. Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession?
Oh gosh there are so many things I love! Bizarrely it could be my brass falafel maker which I brought back from Oman. Or my more boyish thing would be my series 2A Landrover which is the same age as I am.
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
I love the Turkish restaurant Fez Mangal on Ladbroke Grove, which is great for both eating and taking away.
Your favourite book / film / song?
My favourite film is ‘Something Wild’ which I totally recommend if you haven’t seen it! It’s funny and edgy.
Your favourite food and drink?
For food I love Calamari and Octopus (clearly I have a taste for rubber!) Red wine to drink, especially Pinot Noir and Burgundy.
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? (in no more than 25 words)
Playing any form of competitive sport
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
A chef!