Name: Lucinda Sanford
Company: Lucinda Sanford
Position within company: Director
Website: www.lucindasanford.com
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I have owned and ran Lucinda Sanford for 8 years. Prior to this I had spent the early part of my career working for The Royal Household followed by Fashion Company Bamford owned by Lady Bamford. I had always had a love of property and design, during my studies at St. Andrew’s University I worked for an interiors shop in the town. I really wanted to combine my love of interiors and construction.
How would you describe your personal interior design style?
I have very classic style with clean, pared down modern edges. I love colour and texture greatly.
I believe that homes should have a feel of mixture about them, you don’t have to dress head to toe in designer clothes and nor should you feel that your home should be like that. Style is about evolving and mixing. I also believe in practical design. Homes should work and be practical. Its one thing wearing an uncomfortable pair of shoes for a few hours, but imagine if you had to wear them for life!
I am never afraid of a radiator, TV or a speaker – we all like to be warm, watch TV and listen to music and we shouldn’t try to hide that away all the time. A Home is a home because it is lived in.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
There are so many amazing people out there I love to see other designers and their work but I also love to look at florists, stylists, fashion as well to see how their techniques can merge into our homes. Their eye is different and interesting. There are so many wonderful people out there designing great things – is all rather intimidating!
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I really hope and believe that the similarity between homes is diminishing, people are becoming less afraid to use different things and not just have a neutral pallet.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2017 and beyond.
Colour
Texture
Detail
Architectural integrity
Real living
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid or embarrassed. Who is to say what is “in” proportion or “out” or proportion, if you love it then you should use it. The key is to make sure it works together and a lot of that comes from confidence.
A good designer should be able to take any style and make it work and therefore make their client happy.
How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
I think they are really encouraging for all designers and architects small or large. It is wonderful to see other work getting recognition and to feel recognized for ones on. It also focusses ones own mind
What projects are you currently working on?
We are working on a wonderful house in Westbourne Grove, a house in Wandsworth, Fulham and Brook Green. We also have a small new build development in Teddington and a Sussex House.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
To grow my business and brand
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession?
My family
Your favourite holiday destination?
Uttelry spoilt but we have a huge family holiday to Mustique every year
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
Claridges /Cecconis/ Annabel’s
Your favourite book / film / song?
Pride and Predjudice/Bridget Jones/ Happy (for my 5 year old)
Your favourite food and drink?
Too many things – Wine
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? (in no more than 25 words)
No emails, my husband and our two little girls
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
Frustrated!