Name: Birgit Israel

Company: Birgit Israel – a division of Babylon Design LTD

Position within company: Owner

Website: www.birgitisrael.com

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

Started as a set designer and stylist, working in film industry worldwide.

How would you describe your personal interior design style?

Eclectic, mixing old and new, classic and timeless.

Where does your design inspiration come from?

From the past.

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

Design is moving into fashion – where everything is allowed.

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

Rugs, tiles, lighting, antiques and vintage.

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

Keep it simple and timeless.

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

International Design & Architecture awards are important if you want to build a name for yourself, your team or your

firm. It’s also about recognition and inspiring others. There are even more positive things that come with winning the

award! First, it can increase the designer’s visibility and can be an effective public relations tool. Second, it is rewarding

for the designers to know that the work they have developed is appreciated by a jury and their peers. And most

importantly, winning the award acknowledges the fact that the design is valued.

What projects are you currently working on?

Developing our rug, lighting and accessory collection, extending our current furniture collection + working on 3 interior

design projects in Germany.

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

Establish our new product collection we are currently working on.

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself

Your most treasured possession?

Porsche 911, 1983.

Your favourite holiday destination?

Venice.

Your favourite hotel?

The Gritti Palace in Venice.

Your favourite book / film?

Books by Philippa Gregory

Film – “Field of Dreams” with Kevin Costner.

Your favourite food and drink?

Drink – White wine spritzer

Food – Italian food.

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?

To be in the garden.

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

Garden and landscape designer.