Name: Massimo Speroni
Company: MASSIMO Interiors
Position within company: Director/Designer
Website: www.massimointeriors.com.au
. Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
Prior to starting my own Melbourne based Design Studio, I grew up in Milano (Italy) a city that’s internationally known for its art, architectural treasures and as a fashion mecca of the world. It is against this magical backdrop that I found my natural creative inspiration. With a degree in graphic design, I arrived in Australia to expand on my life experiences. Upon my arrival I completed my Masters in Multimedia, and worked as Creative Director for several years. The milestone year for me was 2007 when I was granted permanent residency in Australia followed by my long awaited Citizenship. It was after this that I felt the freedom to pursue my goals and to realize my dreams in the new land that I now call home, by following my artistic passion and flair for design. I then furthered my education in Interior Design and Decorating before embarking upon my career as an Interior Designer.
. How would you describe your personal interior design style?
When I design, I tend to layer whimsy and tradition creating comfortable and bespoke interiors. I have an eye for sophisticated symmetry, combining order with bursts of color and optimism. Consistent throughout my work is a sense of glamour, drawing inspiration from both classical and contemporary references skillfully merging new and original contexts. My approach to interior design is also largely based on the apposition of contrasts.
. Where does your design inspiration come from?
As an interior designer, my work is a projection and extension of myself. I do not subscribe to a particular source or influence; however, I unconsciously acquired the grandeur and the diligent character of my hometown hence the presence of the Italian masters in my work is unmistakable whether it being bold or subtle. Travel and films also play a big part in my design inspiration, yet my clients’ personalities provide me with the most important source of inspiration, which is essential in creating a successful bespoke interior.
. In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
Home is where the heart is, and nothing is truer than that for 2016. Whether you’re looking for the romance of opulence, the nostalgic comfort and ease of summer camp, or just the fulfilment of every human’s need for quiet and tranquillity, 2016 is designed to take you right where you belong.
. Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2016 and beyond.
1. 2016 exudes confidence with strong, darker mid-tones mixed with milky pastels inspired by history and romance.
2. Textures derived from nature, whether they are animal, mineral or vegetables will be in. Think botany, insect prints, fossils, bone, wood, bark, and stone.
3. Lighting has gone big and can be found in a variety of colours and finishes. Statement light fixtures, as in large scale, a cluster of multiples or a striking style, can shake up an entire room. They are focal points and can be as important as art, furniture or an interior paint palette.
4. The 1950s and 1970s are hot trends in fashion design collections right now, and it is no different in interiors. Mid-century Modern with brass, gold and metallic finishes will be even more popular in 2016.
5. Prints and pattern are definitely back on the rise; in 2016 visual impact is the key theme. On one side we see fluid looking prints, peacock feather patterns, photographic images, graded dip dye designs, text, blurred images, floral and tropical prints.
. If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what
would it be?
Trends in decorating come and go and, as with fashion, there are some of us who are way more eager to jump on the latest bandwagon than others. Even the word “trend” scares some people because they feel like they have to try it or else they will be left in the Dark Ages. Not every trend is meant to last; some things do end up sticking around longer than others, but most of the time new trends come and go in the blink of an eye. To stay on trend but not redecorate every six months is pretty basic. You need to design a home you love that looks great and works well for your lifestyle, and then make small, gradual changes with some of the right trends, some of the time. Often big new trends are discussed in January of the New Year; a lot of the time they have to do with the latest and greatest colours, or styles of furniture, patterns, fabrics, etc. My advice is that it’s a whole lot easier to keep large “investment pieces” for the long term, and small accessories in the short term. If you really do love a trendy colour or style, just try to live with seeing
the trend for a while before you commit. You can add in trendy colours and styles in small doses. Think about changing things like pillows, accessories, blankets, lampshades, artwork or even new rugs every so often, but not the big things like sofas and dining room tables.
. How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of
talent and achievement?
The Awards are a great platform for interior designers and architects to showcase their best projects. It is recognition among fellow designers and the public eye. Winning an Award it is a great personal achievement showing that all the hard work, passion, knowledge and skills put into your creations are validated across the globe.
. What projects are you currently working on?
Currently working on a variety of projects, from large-scale renovations to decorative refurbishments, and new build design, due to be completed later this year. I am also designing my new rug collections and releasing them in the next few months.
. What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
The most exiting project I will be working on this year will be our own home. Designed from scratch, this new build has been in the pipeline for the past few years, yet we will finally brake ground in the next few weeks and it will take up to 12 months to complete. I am very exiting to share this special project close to my heart pretty soon!
. Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession?
An original vintage 70s Italian Gingko floor lamp by Tommaso Barbi purchased in Paris
Your favourite holiday destination?
Florence, Italy
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
Rosetta restaurant, Melbourne
Your favourite book / film / song?
The film: La dolce vita
Your favourite food and drink?
Food: My own special Tiramisu recipe – Drink: Frangelico liqueur
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Walking along the beach at sunset with my husband and our little terrier.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
My love for animals has always be a strong passion of mine since I was a little boy.
Fascinated by nature and with an eye for details, I could see myself being a photographer for national
geographic showcasing close encounters with the most beautiful creatures on our planet.