Name:Alan Waxman
Company: Landmass London
Position within company: Managing Director
Website: www.landmass.co.uk
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
On the job training. Having achieved record local prices in Fulham by reconfiguring small flats, I went on to source larger un-modernised projects in Notting Hill throughout the late 90’s. In one instance, I reconfigured a 2 bedroom flat into a spacious 1 bedroom and sold again for a record price to actress Sienna Miller.
Subsequently, Landmass was founded to lead the way in imaginative residential design throughout London’s most coveted addresses.
How would you describe your personal design style?
Our projects are always characterised by an exceptional use of space and an exquisite quality of interior finish. We focus on the creative introduction of natural light and innovative space planning.
There are two distinct types of luxury, the tangible and intangible. We provide for the tangible through the ultimate bespoke experience, truly exclusive to each property.
However, with buyers more perceptive than ever, we grab their imagination, by responding to their subconscious mind. They want the intangible, something money cannot buy.
We allow a space to express itself through our use of natural light and simplicity in design. Maximising the feeling of well-being, our interiors are elegantly executed; yet do not detract from the space we create.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
We are inspired by light. Without light, you cannot create space.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
Design is embracing every technological advance more than ever, not just in home automation. With innovative electro-chromic glass and ultra-high strength concrete, these developments can revolutionise the way a space appears.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2013 and beyond.
• Sustainability – Features built for regular use and long-term
• Outdoors/indoors – Retractable glass ceilings bring the outdoors, indoors
• Innovative materials – Raw metals such as copper and ultra-high strength concrete can create wonderful features e.g. fireplaces
• Dig-down – Maximise ceiling height by lowering floors
• Timeless – Classic designs never go out of fashion
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design, what would it be?
Less is more.
How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
Without such awards, Landmass would never have achieved what we have today. Recognition is invaluable with so many in competition. It is the easiest way to differentiate from the others.
What projects are you currently working on?
Amongst others, our current workload includes 4000ft² and 3500ft² Victorian townhouses in Little Venice and Fulham respectively, a 2200ft² Victorian terraced house in Chelsea and a brand new build house in Notting Hill.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Firstly, we hope to source a buyer for our latest development Belgrave Mews North. Over the next 12 months, we would like to acquire a large scale development in Prime Central London along with continuing to expand our client book throughout Prime Central London.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself:
Your favourite holiday destination?
Verbier, Switzerland
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
Bentley’s fish restaurant in Picadilly
Your favourite book / film / song?
Steve Jobs’ Biography
Your favourite food and drink?
Sunday Roast and a nice bottle of Red Wine!
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Water-skiing in the Summer.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
Ski instructor