Name: Hanne Gathe 
Company: Studio Gathe
Position within company: Owner & Design Director
Website: www.studiogathe.com
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I have a bachelor in Interior and Spatial Design at Chelsea College of Art and Design from London and got a job at Foster + Partners just days after graduation. I worked there for a couple of years on high end projects that includes several large scale villas, a Perini Navi sail yacht and a private jet. I then continued to work for several known names in the London design scene over the next 9 years.
How would you describe your personal design style?
My design style is International with an undertone of Scandinavian. I like to use color, but restrict it to use tones that match. Either in neutrals or in bold tones. I prefer to use unique pieces of furniture, I design and custom make furniture as well as buying designer pieces, one offs and antiques, I also like to mix in some high street elements. If the blend is right then no one will be able to pin point exactly where one piece is from or replica it.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
My inspiration come from my travels and overseas experience. I have travelled and lived across the world for most of my adult life and pick up inspiration from hotels, shops, markets, restaurants and architecture. I also attend design fairs all around the world to keep up with current trends, not so much to use them, but so I am aware of what the general market is up to.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I see more clients are after something unique, custom made pieces, preferably made locally and use of vintage pieces. Individualism will become more important than trends and quality will be more important than cheaper copies.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2020 and beyond.
Individualism, crafstmanship, longevity, quality and function.
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Don´t just source from one or two suppliers, try to incorporate bespoke pieces and use Instagram for the most up to date inspiration.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
The International Design and Architecture Awards is very important to the industry as its important to recognize projects in different categories, large and small. It is one of the few awards where smaller companies can really make an impression and get international recognition.
What projects are you currently working on?
I just finished up two signature suites at the Grand Hotel Oslo and I am now working on several room refurbishments and the conference. I am also working on a large conference Hotel in Trondheim Norway. I have two large houses that are nearing completion and have a few new homes in the pipeline.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
In the next twelve months I hope to be able to grow my company and do more overseas projects. I also hope to be able to develop a product line and product agency focusing on affordable luxury and unique pieces.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession?
My dog Brinkley
Your favourite holiday destination?
Tuscany and Italy in general
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Amangiri Hotel in Utah, Chelsea Ivy Garden in London, The bar at Chiltern Firehouse
Your favourite book, film & song?
I love the books from Malcom Gladwell,
I love the movie Drive, mainly because of the amazing soundtrack.
At the moment I´m really into an Australian group called Rufus Du Sol.
Your favourite food and drink?
I love anyting seafood. Favourite drink is red wine in winter and aperol spritz in summer.
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Either out for dinner with my friends or out walking with my dog.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
I am obsessed with flowers so I would love to own a flower shop and provide arrangements for events and interiors.
Studio Gathe have been Shortlisted for Living Space – Global Award and City Space – Global Award in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2020.
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