Name: Amelia Carter
Company: Amelia Carter Interiors
Position within company: Director and Owner
Website: www.ameliacarter.com
. Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I graduated from NSCAD University on Canada’s East Coast with a Degree in Textiles before continuing my education in London. I received an MA in Textile Futures from Central St Martins and it was here that I began exploring the definition of ‘textile’ and also asking the question ‘Can sustainability be Sexy?’ My work focused on decorative surfaces that were also integral to a buildings strucuture; metal, cork and concrete. No fabric in sight! Prior to setting up Amelia Carter Interiors, I have worked with two of the top design firms in the UK, on projects in the Middle East, Russia, Europe, North America and London.
. How would you describe your personal interior design style?
I create elegant interiors, which combine beauty, comfort and value. Large furniture pieces are usually clean in design and I add textured upholstery fabrics to show them off. I enjoy being adventurous in my use of pattern, texture and colour on smaller pieces of furniture or cushions as I have always loved textiles. It’s important for the eye to keep moving through the room, but to love every item it rests on.
. Where does your design inspiration come from?
I find inspiration from just about anything, I’m constantly tuned in to my surroundings. My top five would be nature, travel, fashion textiles, technology and my clients.
. In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
Design is definitley becoming more personalised, especially with all of the home technology that is available. I also believe that people want something that is ‘only theirs’ and as a result designers are pushing the boundaries even further to create fresh, beautiful and individual interiors.
. Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2015 and beyond.
Innovative Materials, Simple Elegance, Accessible Home Technology, Experimental Textures, Nature-led Design in the Home
. If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be?
If you are going to be bold, sleep on it. Make sure that you are being bold with something that you have always loved rather than being influenced by fads or trends. These will come and go, but what you honestly love will always make you happy.
. How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
These awards offer a platform for young design studios to showcase their work. They recognize fresh talent and expose it to a much wider audience. Being shortlisted is a huge honour.
. What projects are you currently working on?
We are currently working on a residential development in Knightsbridge, a commerical project in Holborn and private residences in Belgravia, Hampstead and Nassau, Bahamas.
. What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
We want to continue to deliver the highest quality to our clients, that is always our foremost goal. It would also be wonderful to continue growing our team and working on new and challenging projects.
. Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession?
My 7 month old daughter Stella.
Your favourite holiday destination?
Harbour Island, Bahamas
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
Hotel: Finca Cortesin, Estepona, Spain
Restaurant: Lucio’s, Fulham Rd, London
Bar: Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels, Covent Garden, London
Your favourite book / film / song?
Book: At the moment Stella and I are enjoying ‘Where the Wild Things Are’
Film: Elizabeth, both the Cate Blanchett and Helen Mirren versions
Song: Suspicious Minds, Elvis
Your favourite food and drink?
Eggs Benedict and Pinot Noir
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? (in no more than 25 words)
I have two incredibly energetic Parsons Russell Terriers, Azor and Lila. My ideal afternoon would be walking with them along the beach. To wear them out and give me time to unwind.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
If I wasn’t an Interior Designer, I would be a Textile Designer. I love both weaving and screen printing and am working on some designs for our own range at the moment.