Name: Ioanna Lennox
Company: IOANNA LENNOX INTERIORS
Position within company: Creative Director
Website: www.ioannalennox.com
Tell us a little about your background in design:
I’ve been fascinated by design, architecture and interiors since childhood. As a teenager, I’d spend all my pocket money buying design magazines and cutting them into elaborate collages of make-believe houses. In 2014, after studying interior design, I left a successful corporate career in finance to start my own interior design practice.
How would you describe your personal design style?
My personal design style is modern luxury adapted for today’s living. I seek to create beautifully layered, emotionally rich homes, where every detail is considered and customisation plays a key role. For me, interiors are all about conjuring up an emotional response and the feeling that you don’t want to leave.
Where does your inspiration come from?
Anywhere and everywhere: I could be scrolling through Instagram in the morning, go to a trade show in the afternoon or flick through a design book in the evening, and something will catch my eye. I’ll instantly associate it with a project we’re working on and in a matter of moments I’ve changed it, tweaked it or adapted that seed of inspiration to suit the project – all in my head.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving in a general sense?
The paired-back monochromatic trend of the last decade is on its way out and making way for more luxurious inclusions, unexpected materials and a high level of detailing. For me, this is a welcome change as I love to work with colour and infuse our projects with a sense of excitement, materiality and restrained luxury.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2020 and beyond:
- The client’s psyche
- Quality and craftsmanship
- Sustainability
- Detailing
- The unexpected.
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
If you’re a little afraid of colour, use it as an accent or reflected in a show-stopping piece of art, otherwise keep your large furnishings in a fairly neutral palette. And do splurge on art, it really does make a room and tells the world who you are.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
The Design Awards, like other prestigious awards in this industry, are a wonderful way to celebrate talent and be recognised. They awards signal forthcoming industry trends and are a good barometer for what’s happening in the international world of design.
What projects are you currently working on?
We started the year with a number of high-end residential properties in Sydney, but as the COVID-19 crisis hit, a few of these projects were put on hold. We are anticipating the works resuming soon and are looking forward to working with the builders and contractors to see them realised.
Tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession? This tends to change, but right now a large-scale painting by Sokquon Tran called ‘The Rain is for Lovers’. It’s an abstract landscape, dreamy and moody with hues of my favourite colour, blue.
Your favourite holiday destination? The Amalfi Coast in Italy
Your favourite hotel, restaurant and bar? The Firmdale Hotels in London are a favourite because I’m a huge fan of the world Kit Kemp has created – a perfect example of a vision of hotel luxury done in a fresh, colourful and whimsical way, where people are transported into an environment that leaves a lasting impression.
Your favourite book, film and song? I really enjoyed ‘Gone Girl’ and I’m sucker for any Adele song.
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? On a yacht in Sydney Harbour wining and dining with my family and friends.
Any final thoughts?
I believe the place we live and spend most of our time in strongly influences our psychology and the way we feel. Having a home that nurtures and empowers us while reflecting our own life’s journey is more important than a great holiday or fancy car because it replenishes the spirit and gives us a sense of balance and permanence.