Arista Design have been shortlisted for Residential £20 Million Plus (Project Value) Award, Luxury Residence – London Award, Interior Design Scheme – UK Award, Residential £20 Million Plus (Property Value) Award and Residential Swimming Pool Award in The International Design and Architecture Awards 2020. Read more about Director, Dawn Louise Ward, below:
Name: Dawn Louise Ward
Company: Arista Design Ltd
Position within company: Director
Website: www.arista-design.co.uk
Tell us a little about your background in design:
I have been fascinated by design since I was a small child, designing my own bedroom complete with curtain and furniture design as a 12 year old. I am from an entrepreneurial family and started my own property and design company by the time I was 24. I progressed from smaller projects and barn conversions to large scale projects as my reputation grew. I now feel very fortunate to be able to work on some of Europe’s finest buildings and projects, using the world’s finest materials.
How would you describe your personal design style?
I believe I have got an ability to extract from my clients what is their personal style, whatever that may be and bring it to life for them. Within our practice we have designers who naturally gravitate to a certain style and I think mine is to create bold, opulent, lavish interiors with multiple layers that keep your interest long after first walking into a space.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
Whilst the web and social media cannot be ignored in the modern world the best inspiration, undoubtedly, still comes from travel and art. I recently designed a lava wall for a spa based on some art I saw in a gallery in Paris. Seeing something beautiful on your travels, modifying it and incorporating something inspired by it into your scheme is the key to Interior design.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I am seeing more clients who want to express their own personalities and requirements in their homes and spaces rather than follow the latest trend which is great news for creative designers.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2020 and beyond.
Sustainable materials, Classic prints, Warm bold colours, individuality in design, neutrals replaced with earthy tones.
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Optimise the spatial planning and functionality of the space – a beautiful interior is wasted if the space is not functional
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
Regarded as one of the most prestigious international awards the shortlisting and the potential to win any of these awards is hugely important in having your work recognised for quality.
What projects are you currently working on?
Arista Design are working on a luxury hotel spa, large country residence in the Home Counties and a prestigious ambassadorial London residence.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
It’s been such a reticent year so far due to Covid-19 I am looking forward to getting out there and pushing our projects forward. I always look forward to seeing our exciting projects complete.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession?
My family
Your favourite holiday destination?
South of France
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
The refurbished Hotel de Paris Monaco, Scott’s Restaurant Mayfair, Annabel’s Mayfair
Your favourite book, film & song?
Long Walk To Freedom, Titanic, Shallow-Lady Gaga
Your favourite food and drink?
Dover Sole and Ruinart Champagne
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Horse riding with my family, children and dogs
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
A Property Developer
Anything else interesting?
I’m a mother of 4 girls who has raised over £1m for children’s charities
Arista Design have been shortlisted for Residential £20 Million Plus (Project Value) Award, Luxury Residence – London Award, Interior Design Scheme – UK Award, Residential £20 Million Plus (Property Value) Award and Residential Swimming Pool Award in The International Design and Architecture Awards 2020.
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