Last year’s design et al award winner, Interior Architect Dimitris Economou, Owner at Dimitris Economou Interiors (www.dimitriseconomou.com) shares his design insights for 2013.
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
After graduating from an architectural studies and decoration college, I worked in one of the best offices in Athens, which was responsible for creating several successful works of the time. When started working alone with my own office in 1992, the successful course continued as I had the good fortune to work with strong names in the area of night clubs and entertainment and to focus and specialise in the particular area, especially restaurants, bars, cafes and night clubs.
How would you describe your personal design style?
Adaptive and flexible. I want to be as different as possible every time and always follow new ideas and trends.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
It comes from a tranquil and happy life.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
It is moving to more “green”, cosy and familiar atmospheres without losing style and design.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2013 and beyond.
Organic forms – vivid colours – technology – interaction – quality
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design, what would it be?
Always see everything, even small things, under the criterion of design.
What projects are you currently working on?
We are working on a cafe-restaurant in Athens, a hotel in Santorini and also a fast food restaurant in Santorini as well.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Health, physical and mental, and more successful projects in 2014.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession? My family
Your favourite holiday destination? Mykonos
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
Casa Santo Domingo in Antigua, Guatemala and Astra Suites in Santorini, Hakkasan Restaurant, Astra Bar in Mykonos.
Your favourite book / film / song? Against all odds
Your favourite food and drink? Okra with feta cheese and Greek wine.
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? (in no more than 25 words)
Sailing with my two boys and lovely wife.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be? A skipper
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Last year’s design et al award winner Dimitris Economou Interiors have again been shortlisted for the International Design & Architecture Awards 2013. This year’s entry Paramythi Cafe Bar has been selected for a Bar / Club / Lounge Award 2013. Winners will be announced at The Hurlingham Club in London on 20th September 2013.