Name: Stacey Sibley
Company: Alexander James Interior Design
Position within company: Creative Director
Website: www.aji.co.uk
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I gained qualifications in Design & Styling before starting as a junior at an interior design company. I worked my way up and have now been designing for over 26 years!
How would you describe your personal design style?
I have a very varied style as I need to be able to design to all tastes. I like to use an eclectic mix when using furniture and fabrics and I love working with contrasting textures in soft furnishings.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
It can come from lots of different things, from a piece of art to a fabric design- it normally evolves from one item. Nature is very inspiring to me and I try to bring this into my design in different elements.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I think people are looking for comfort and practicality, it’s not just about the latest trend it’s also about longevity.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2019 and beyond.
- Natural materials like French cane and wicker are making a big come back
- Marquetry designs on wallcoverings and furniture
- Patterns inspired by nature
- Burnt orange as an accent colour
- Monochrome schemes
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
The layout of a room is extremely important. The way the furniture is positioned and its scale can make a huge difference to a design, if it doesn’t flow or if it is not functional it will not work.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
It’s always a great achievement to receive an award that is seen as the best in the world of interior design, and it is also particularly gratifying to be recognised by those in the same industry as you.
What projects are you currently working on?
- A palatial luxury penthouse apartment in Surrey
- A country family home in Hampshire
- A modern contemporary apartment in Central London
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
To continue to grow and be inspired.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession?
My two west highland dogs
Your favourite holiday destination?
Provence and Cornwall
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Soho Farmhouse Cotswold
Nathan Outlaws fish kitchen Port Isaac
Hoxton Hotel bar Paris
Your favourite book, film & song?
Current favourite book Eleanor Oliphant is completely fine
All time classic film Some Like It Hot
Promise by Ben Howard
Your favourite food and drink?
I love all seafood
Has to be a gin and tonic
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Walking on the beach with my husband and two dogs in Cornwall
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
An Artist, I love painting in my spare time.