Name: David James
Company: David James Architects & Associates Ltd
Position within company: Managing Director
Website: www.davidjamesarchitects.co.uk

Tell us a little about your background
Qualified as a chartered Architect at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa and has practiced in England for the past 19years, having established the practice in 2009.

How would you describe your own personal style?
Contemporary

Where does your inspiration come from?
Frank Lloyd Wright.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
More of a contemporary modern theme.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching property development in 2015 and beyond.
Location, design, product, response to context, detailing and materials.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to development projects, what would it be?
Start with a good architect and don’t cut corners.

How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
Extremely important, establishing a fantastic platform for design recognition.

What projects are you currently working on?
A variety of high end, bespoke houses and apartment blocks from London to South of England.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Continue growing our high standard of design and detail, exploring new materials.

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself

Your most treasured possession?
Family

Your favourite holiday destination?
South Africa

Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
Chewton Glen, New Milton

Your favourite book / film / song?
Africa by Toto

Your favourite food and drink?
Single malt whisky and seafood

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
With family on the beach

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