Name: Marina Braginskaya
Company: Atelier Interior
Position within company: Owner, designer
Website: www.atelierinterior.ru
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I got my first designer diploma in 2001, but for several years I was too shy to start, so I continued my studies in design, as well as management. I started doing my own projects after getting an experience in architectural project management in one of the big Russian companies, which actually was very useful.
How would you describe your personal interior design style?
I like doing different projects, creating different interior stories based on the client’s references and the way I see him/her. I am in love of antique and vintage pieces, but still half of my clients prefer new things.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
Travelling, historical interiors – I visit a lot of them, museums, old mansions, but my main inspiration is always the clients themselves.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
Global politics changes in the world, press and social networks – everything has a serious impact on design. On one hand, we notice globalization as all designers in the world can use the same sources of inspiration and ideas. And on the other hand, we see rising interest in uniqueness, national and ethnic character.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2017 and beyond.
Wild nature, tropics, feathers, fur
Having fun with prints and bold colours
Seventies is the vintage inspiration for the year
Natural stones in unusual forms
Being brave instead of being preppy
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be?
Even if the project lasts for several years, always keep in mind the idea that you started with.
How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
It is a great opportunity for a designer to get the recognition in the worldwide market.
What projects are you currently working on?
We are working on several houses near Moscow and in some other parts of Russia, a beauty salon, a restaurant and some apartments including one at the south of France.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
I wish my projects to be published on some interior magazine covers and I plan to start some new inspiring projects. I have a dream of designing a hotel.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself:
Your most treasured possession?
Some antique pieces, including antique books inherited from my grandmother.
Your favourite holiday destination?
I am travelling a lot, mostly between Moscow, Paris and Brussels. I prefer spending summers in Europe – Rome, Venice, London, and having a little runaway holiday to Asia – Singapore, Thailand and Bali – in winter.
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
My favourite hotel is Raffles Hotel in Singapore, which is unfortunately now closed for renovation. I love Monsieur Bleu restaurant in Paris and Loosbar American Bar in Vienna.
Your favourite book / film / song?
My favourite film is a Russian “The Heart of a Dog” black and white film based on Mikhail Bulgakov’s novel. I was deeply impressed by “The Goldfinch” by Donna Tartt recently. As for the songs, there is only classical musiс playing in my house since I became a mother.
Your favourite food and drink?
Caviar and champagne.
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
For the weekend afternoon it will be a walk with my kids and SPA for myself.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
As a child, I wanted to be a veterinarian, but now I cannot imagine myself being happy doing anything else.
