Name: Brian Worthington
Company: Brian Worthington & Associates
Position within company: Design Director
Website: www.bworthington.com
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I have been in the design industry for over 30 years. My long career started at Blake College, London, with further study at The French Design School, Surrey UK, which includes work for some of the most prestigious design firms in the world, such as Colefax and Fowler Mayfair London, Sanderson & Sons Ltd, Innovation, and lastly Chelsea Textiles Design as the Artistic Director before moving onto New York City where I then started my own firm. My portfolio is comprised of projects in the United States, Europe and Asia.
How would you describe your personal design style?
My personal design style is incredibly versatile from Georgian to contemporary, however always with a classical foundation. Refined details are always of paramount importance. In Europe I am known for florals, in the US I am known for 9 shades of period stone colours, however in China I am known for both of these.
Where does your design inspiration come from? My design inspiration is always based on where the project is located. My mission is always to create interiors that are timeless, original, authentic and refined
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
No matter how traditional or contemporary the project is, we at BWA are continuously asked for even more bespoke pieces with longevity regarding finishes and materials. Regarding metals, bronze is becoming more prominent.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2019 and beyond.
Location, architecture, client’s boundaries, finishes and scale/proportion
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Design can have different accents, as long as they speak the same language.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
The International Design & Architecture Awards are becoming increasingly important since they give such a wonderful global and domestic perspective to the most beautiful spaces being created in the 21st Century. We are humbled to be shortlisted for the 2019 awards and thrilled to be associated with other prestigious design firms from around the world.
What projects are you currently working on?
Currently we are working on residences in the US (Palm Beach, FL & West Hampton, NY), UK (Iver, Buckinghamshire) and a multiple purpose dwelling in Yellow Mountain, China.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
My goal is to continue creating beautiful, functional and timeless spaces for the international set.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession?
I treasure moments in time and memories most, but also my swan ring, I will be berried in it! It is a 19th Century rose gold family signet ring given to me by my Grandfather.
Your favourite holiday destination?
Lake Como, Italy
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Hotel: Claridge’s, London
Restaurant: La Grenouille, NYC
Bar: The Carlyle, NYC
Your favourite book, film & song?
Film: Now, Voyager
Song: Over the Rainbow by Eva Cassidy, I also love anything by Ella Fitzgerald
Your favourite food and drink?
Food: English comfort food
Drink: Boutique Gin & Tonic
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Attending a great exhibit followed by afternoon tea with friends
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
A Cake Decorator
Anything else interesting?
I have lived in 5 different countries – Hong Kong, Australia, England, America, China