Name: Alex Roth
Company: Roth Architecture
Position within company: Director
Website: www.roth.com.au
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I studied art at school, which is when my interest began. At university I studied philosophy, psychology economics. I lived and worked in Japan for a couple of years. Once I returned to Sydney I studied architecture/ interior design as a mature aged student. I opened my own practice as a designer in 2005 once I became a registered architect.
How would you describe your personal interior design style?
Strong is the only world that can describe my interior design style.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
I find a lot of inspiration from natural forms. I love sculpture so this and natural formations really play a big role in my design.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
2018 feels to me like the year of refinement and purging. I don’t think we will see much ‘decoration’ or over the top details for a little while. I think this is a reflection of societies need for calmness at the moment.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2018 and beyond.
Refinement, curation, natural form, strong and healthy environments are the themes I would suggest thinking about this year.
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be?
Understand each space’s internal light. This is particularly important for the light of material and the overall ambiance of the space at any given time of day.
How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
It’s important to recognise and push forward firms and personalities from other places in the world, to other places in the world. It creates a melting pot of idea’s cultures and a holistic design opportunity.
What projects are you currently working on?
We are currently working on a number of complex and high end residential buildings. A home we are currently building in Centennial Park, Sydney is looking to be a stand out for us as a firm.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
As a firm we are looking to create great design in more areas than just residential. It would be great to design our first overseas home this year as well!
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession?
My kids! (Though they aren’t technically a ‘possession’)
Your favourite holiday destination?
Europe in general, though Paris for the food places and art.
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Chicago has the best hotels, bars and food. I enjoy them all.
Your favourite book, film & song?
Book: “Love in the time of Cholera”
Film: Blade Runner
Song: INXS, “Don’t Change”
Your favourite food and drink?
Greek beach meal – simple but beautiful seafood.
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Drawing in a café, ideally in a busy area with interesting people area and views.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
A film maker or sculptor.