1.61 London - Alexander Christou


Designer in Profile: Alexander Christou – Director at 1.61 London

Name: Alexander Christou 1.61 London - Alexander Christou
Company: 1.61 London
Position within company: Director
Website: www.161london.com

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

1.61 London was founded by my brother and I. The business was set up to find and create uniquely designed properties throughout the prime areas of London and Europe. Unlike most interior designers, the main experience my brother and I had was on the valuation side of the property business. This is a key component of any project 1.61 London undertakes – always ensuring that the work done is a good investment alongside delivering a beautiful home.

How would you describe your personal interior design style?

1.61 London delivers a seamless integration of the very latest in finishes, furniture, implementation and technology. We undertake such a variety of finishes and looks that there isn’t one style we prefer.

Where does your design inspiration come from?

Inspiration comes from so many different sources. When working with a client they are the main source of inspiration for the project but on our developments, it can be a key component of the location or a unique product we can implement in a development. Sometimes the properties history and background gives us the foundation from which we grow our ideas.

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

Clients generally seem bored with the general two base tone plus one accent colour finish that most designers continue to offer up as an aesthetic. This would include the usual single feature wall designs. There is always this drive from our clients to create uniqueness in their homes and that is what we love. We now design with more muted tones which allows the different textures and materials to shine, not a stark pop of colour. A simple integration of technology within the home is also becoming more key.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2017 and beyond.

  1. Is it unique
  2. Does it create a luxurious aesthetic
  3. Has the latest technology been integrated simply
  4. Is the design enduring
  5. Is the design value enhancing

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

Plan everything before you start your project however long that process takes.

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

They are very important as they give designers a platform to showcase their achievements to a wider audience and hopefully receive recognition for that work

What projects are you currently working on?

We have a number of exciting projects coming up, but unfortunately, we can’t share too much information.

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

To deliver a complete one stop solution in the property industry for our clients across all fields

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself:

Your most treasured possession?
Cartier Watch

Your favourite holiday destination?
Monaco

Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
Hotel Du Cap

Your favourite book / film / song?
Shawshank Redemption

Your favourite food and drink?
Steak and a good red wine

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? (in no more than 25 words)
Relaxing and enjoying London’s amazing cosmopolitan atmosphere.

If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
Politician

1.61 London