We catch up with Design Award winner Casa Forma as they look towards emerging markets for growth. In a future where demand is increasing, we also find out how to achieve a healthy life balance with meditation, the Maldives and much much more….
What direction do you feel design is moving towards in general terms?
The demand for luxury becomes stronger every day due to an increase in the emerging BRIC economies. Additionally, in developed markets we are seeing that the perception of luxury is also changing. In general terms, we are experiencing an increasing demand for bespoke and unique pieces, truly emotion evoking pieces which are conversation starters.
What are the key influencing elements at present?
No doubt the works of artists reviving techniques such as painting applied onto antique silver leaf mirror, fabrics laced with liquid metal and verre eglomise are inspiring elements in our designs.
What sort of projects are you working on at the moment?
We have an array of projects in London, Geneva, Hong Kong, Monaco and India. These vary from a full house refurbishment with a contemporary glass extension and a glass swimming pool, a villa in a golf course development, a yacht and a colonial farmhouse.
A designer’s work is so diverse – how do you manage to hold down a career and a life?
Through meditation, healthy cooking and time management so that work can be balanced alongside spending time with family and friends.
Name the key essentials for 2012 and beyond
Sunny and warm summers, water in abundance, coral colours, cutting edge home automation & i-cloud.
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Use good quality natural & sustainable materials as much as possible.
How important do you feel Design Awards are as recognition of designers talents and achievements?
Casa Forma being the recipient of two Design Awards, we can confidently say that recognition and exposure generated from these were a great platform for us to showcase our work to a broader audience.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
We want to expand Casa Forma geographically and into other verticals. We want to geographically expand Casa Forma in India, China, Russia, the Middle East and Brazil and further develop our already amazing synergy we have within our team. We also want to expand into hospitality, marine, and aviation design in the near future.
The car you drive?
S500, and a Range Rover
Your favourite place to travel to in the world?
Maldives. It’s a place where you can simply go to recharge and be inspired.
Your favourite hotel/ restaurant/ bar?
My favourite hotel is Claridges, and my favourite restaurant is La Petite Maison in Mayfair.
The place that gives you the most energy?
Casa Forma. The positive energy, creativity, and collaborative culture energizes me and the whole team.
And the place that enables you to totally relax?
My home.
Your favourite food and drink?
My favourite food is chicken paillard and my favourite drink is coconut water.
Anything else interesting?
At Casa Forma we have my two adorable, and well-behaved Yorkies who are always tucked away in their beautiful dog bed. They are quite an adorable addition to the team.