Name: Gloria Sanchez
Company: Tailored Living Interiors
Position within company: Founder and Director
Website: https://www.tailored-living.co.uk/
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I trained and qualified as an Interior Designer at the world-renowned KLC 14 years ago. Shortly after graduation I launched Tailored Living Interiors. However, the combined demands of being a full time mother and running a studio proved a little excessive at the time. Consequently, after a couple of years I started freelancing part time for other companies in order to achieve a better life/work balance.
Once my son was more grown up and independent, I decided to continue with my long-held dream of running my own business, and so 7 years ago TL was relaunched. As our first company had nothing but happy clients, I was really keen to build upon this reputation.
How would you describe your personal design style?
We try not to have a house style and as our name suggest, we tailor our interiors to our client requirements. However, we find that many clients choose us for the style of work we have done in the past. A lot of people love our classic contemporary style and the use of a neutral colour pallet with splashes of accent colour. Generally, we are designing with highly discerning clients in mind, therefore high quality is an integral element across all our projects whatever the style.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
Our inspiration comes from sources as diverse as nature to different cultures. However, it possesses some common denominators; The initial point of inspiration in our studio is always the architecture of the space. We like to create harmonious interiors that work in unison with the building they are in. Our client’s preferred style will also inform many decisions that we take throughout the process. We also like to consider fashion to a certain extent. Whilst our interiors always introduce elements that are on trend, we tend to balance them with elements that are classic and will stand the test of time.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
We are seeing a lot of contrast and mixing of different materials – antique brass is standing out in bespoke furniture pieces and experiencing a comeback as a finish for kitchens and bathrooms taps.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2020 and beyond.
- Lighting is an integral part of every scheme we create. At TL we strongly believe that lighting can make or break a scheme. Currently we are seeing a trend towards bold lighting – this will fit right in with our love of lighting and statement chandeliers.
- Handcrafted furniture will continue to take centre stage in most amazing interiors. We love using stunning cabinetry using rich and innovative materials to create pieces that can be handed down to several generations of families.
- Textures will continue to be key to create interesting interiors.
- An abundance of natural materials will be seen across different interior styles.
- Sustainable and Luxury Design will be together in the same sentence more often.
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Communication is key at all levels – from clean and clear communications with your clients to ensure you fully understand the brief, to even better communication with suppliers and the different trades to ensure the project runs smoothly.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
They are great to showcase the best of architectural and interior design around the world. Awards drive people and in this sense they lead to better outcomes and design
What projects are you currently working on?
Amongst our main projects at the moment are:
- A boutique apartment in the heart of Marylebone,
- A 5 bedroom family home in Blackheath,
- The ground floor and Master Bedroom en-suite of a property in the Hampstead Garden Suburb area,
- A 3 bedroom apartment in a prestigious Nine Elms Development
- A property in Guildford.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
To continue developing the TL brand at the same time as keeping the same level of customer satisfaction that we have had to date.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession?
It will have to be my mobile phone, what would we do without them these days. Mine rules my life!
Your favourite holiday destination?
So many wonderful destinations but I will have to select the South of Spain as a I get to see my family and friends when I go there. Even though I must confess of having a slight weakness for Mauritius.
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
As my favourite hotel, I would have to choose Chewton Glenn, I had the most beautiful wedding anniversary weekend there last year. In terms of restaurant I will pick something more modern, Street Xo by Spanish Michelin-starred chef Dabiz Muñoz. I love it because a visit to this restaurant is not just about the amazing food. It’s also an experience that feeds all of the senses.
Your favourite book, film & song?
Book – El amore n los tiempos de colera – Gabriel Garcia Marquez
Film – When Harry met Sally
Song – Careless Whisper by George Michael, I love a sax solo.
Your favourite food and drink?
It has to be Japanese food washed down with a nice white Burgundy
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Depending on the mood but I can’t say I don’t like a little bit of shopping
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
A psychologist