Name: Natalia Rotenberg  
Company: NR Group
Position within company: Founder
Website: nrdevelopments.co.uk

Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
Well, I have always had an interest in Art and Design from a very young age. My first project in interior design was over 12 years ago in Moscow for myself, this was a challenge as time and budget was tight. I must say that, I learnt a lot very quickly and knew that I wanted a career in interior design. I then move into the commercial side of interior design, completing two large schools form concept design to build completion. At that time, I also completed two large penthouse apartments for private owners one of which was a modern and the other was of a contemporary design. One of my biggest challenges was to design and furnish a 37metre yacht During this period, I spent a lot of time building friendships with suppliers and customers throughout Europe. This lead to me being involved with many projects outside of Moscow, including France, Germany, Italy and the UK. My skills extended to full project management, to property design and build. I have have always tried to challenge myself throughout my career. One of my biggest challenges was to design, build and furnish a 7,000 square metre private property. I’m deeply proud of myself and team for hard work and effort that we all put into this 6 year project.

How would you describe your personal interior design style?
When people ask me, which style do I use, I can say modern classic or contemporary. I don’t have any specific style as such. Its about working with the owners to achieve their ultimate dream residence. I know how to provide a quality and lifestyle to people. How to make a space comfortable and sophisticated. I must admit that most of my own properties have a contemporary theme to them all and I do enjoy the challenges of this style.

Where does your design inspiration come from?
As I described above, from a very early age I’ve been interested in Art and design, colours and contrast. My early memories and passion at school was art, this was my favourite subject and extended to private lessons. I believe that Art and working with colours and types of contrast is the inspiration that pushed me into a career in Interior design.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense? 
I believe that the quality of finishings and materials are of a much higher standard than in the past and for this reason, designers are moving towards more contemporary themes. People are much more aware of their visual space and can easily express themselves within design, It is our job to bring out the best for them.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2017 and beyond.
1. Comfort and well-being, feeling connected to the space.
2. Vision and versatility.
3. Blending art and walls ‘fusion’
4. Richness, quality and colours of fabric
5. Design should be an extension of your personality.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself, look within yourself and find the answer. Don’t be scared of expressing your personality. Follow your feelings and trust yourself.

How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
The international Design Architecture Awards are very important to the industry; it gives direction and structure to challenge the industry norm, and give new designers the opportunity to stand out.

What projects are you currently working on?
Property Development, Scotts House, Downtown Salisbury.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
To extend my portfolio of projects and gain recognition for my hard work and effort within the interior design industry.

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession?
Family
Your favourite holiday destination?
US, Dubai, Monaco.
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
Dorchester, Novikov, Ritz Hotel
Your favourite book / film / song?
Titanic, I will always love you ‘Whitney Houston’
Your favourite food and drink?
Italian cheese, red wine.
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
I like to take a walk in Hyde Park London then followed with Afternoon tea at the Ritz or the Dorchester Hotel
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
Developer and Landscape designer