Name: Sabrina M. Haindl
Company: uniek/innenarchitektur
Position within company: Owner
Website: www.uniek.rocks
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
After graduating (2005) from the upper level technical institute (one of the biggest in Europe) for interior design and furniture making (including carpentry training), I plunged right into the practical world of interior design, where I gathered a wealth of experience in the prime segment. I learnt a lot from the colleagues I worked with during that time and still collaborate with them today.
How would you describe your personal design style?
My mind works in a practical and logical way. I am curious, passionate and reliable. Often the opposite of what people expect like contrasty / individual / unique 😉 (uniek in Dutch)
Where does your design inspiration come from?
Everywhere. Movies, Theatre, Pinterest, Instagram, Magazines, Friends, Family…
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
Simple, easy, beautiful, functional and modular goods Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2019 and beyond. Smart Home, Climate Change (exterior shading, air conditioner y/n), Sustainability, Quality (Longevity), Comfort
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Take your time when making big decisions (e.g. permanently installed things). For all other things: have fun and be crazy.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
These internationally recognised awards are important for designers, as they provide an opportunity to share and promote their design world-wide. For me personally, the International Design & Architecture Awards are quite significant because they show that my designs are internationally noticed and honoured.
What projects are you currently working on?
New villa with a lake view, House in the hills of Vienna, Renovation and shop concept.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Get time for new ideas. Get better skills in photography and graphics.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations: Your most treasured possession? My company
Your favourite holiday destination?
Something with a great view, pleasant temperature, sea or lake and possibility for little adventures.
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Sans Souci, including Restaurant Veranda and the rooftop bar at 25hours in Vienna
Your favourite book, film & song?
Mistress of the Art of Death – Ariana Franklin / Das finstere Tal (AUT) & Bud Spencer + Terence Hill Movies 😊 / Dog Days are over – Florence and the machine
Your favourite food and drink? An excellent steak or Vietnamese food (summer rolls!) and a tasty cold beer (especially Austrian Zwickl)
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
With friends in the sun, good foods and drinks
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
Not happy 😊
Anything else interesting?
Since Dec 2018 I´m the president of BÖIA (Association of Austrian interior designers). I’m honoured and thrilled for this opportunity to gain recognition for all the great Austrian interior designers. There is still a lot of work to do, but I’m excited for all the prospects and challenges.