Name: Devon Tobin & Miranda Cullen
Company: Duet Design Group
Position within company: Owners/Principals
Website: www.duetdesigngroup.com
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
Devon: BFA in Art/Art History from CU Boulder, BA in Interior Design at Art Institute of Colorado
Miranda: I’ve been designing for 23 years – more than half my life now!
How would you describe your personal design style?
D: Eclectic
M: I don’t have a specific style. I love all types – my house has a very eclectic art collection, family antiques, Asian inspired pieces, traditional lines, high-styled lacquered pieces and more…
Where does your design inspiration come from?
Everywhere! Magazines, Instagram, Fashion.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
D: A greater appreciation for the unity between design and architecture.
M: Design that is more true to each individual.
Name some key themes to consider when approaching design in 2019 and beyond.
1. Be true to yourself. We love the quote, “Stick to the things you really love. An honest room is always up-to-date” by Billy Baldwin.
2. Don’t forget the ceiling! It’s the 5th wall and a great canvas of opportunity.
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
D: It should be unique to the user.
M: Don’t be afraid to go bold. When bold is done correct, there is nothing more inspirational!
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
Incredibly important in order to gain an international presence in the design community.
What projects are you currently working on?
Several high-end residential home renovations, an office design, and surprisingly a barn. There is no design challenge we will decline.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
To continue catering to exactly what our clients want/need and to constantly be learning and adapting to the ever-changing world of design.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession?
D: My grandma’s China
M: The wedding ring my husband gave me 21 years ago.
Your favourite holiday destination?
D: Stowe, VT
M: Mexico
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
D: Quality Italian (restaurant in Denver, CO)
M: I love Kimpton hotels
Your favourite book, film & song?
D: (Book) Life of Pi, (Film) West Side Story, (Song) Someone Like You by Adele
M: Film – Dirty Dancing
Your favourite food and drink?
D: Sushi, Dirty Martini
M: Pizza!
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
D: Lounging with my husband and two boys
M: Just being with my family
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
D: A lawyer
M: I really don’t know as this has been my destiny since I was 8.