Name: Laura Hammett

Company: Laura Hammett Ltd

Position within company: Director

Website: www.laurahammett.com

. Tell us a little about your background in design 

I studied Interior Architecture at Brighton University and went on to work for a few design studios based in London which gave me a real insight into the industry. Following on from this I set up an online boutique where I sold handcrafted luxury homeware. My business grew and I was able to set up a shop where my first interior design clients started coming through the door. By 2008 the interior design side of the business was thriving and the boutique naturally evolved into a design studio. In 2011 my husband Aaron joined the business and along with our strong team of both architectural designers and FF&E designers we offer a full turn key design service.

. How would you describe your personal interior design style?

My personal style has elements of the classical comtemporary look that we design for our clients with a more relaxed aesthetic, I want my home to feel comfortable and elegant at the same time.

. Where does your design inspiration come from?

Put simply, everywhere! We seek inspiration from travelling, hotels we stay at, restaurants we dine in. London itself is a very inspiring city to live in, with all the historical richness from the architecture and galleries and the constant popping up of design led restaurants and bars.

. In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?

We are finding that we are moving towards consciously putting comfort first, without taking away from design led joinery and finishes but ensuring that we are creating a livable, luxury hotel feel for our well travelled and discerning clients.

. Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2015 and beyond.

1. The use of traditional materials and applications and using them in a contemporary way to create a timeless design.

2. Statement lighting, whether it be a selenite chandelier over a bath, or bespoke organic sculptural wall lights which act as both artwork and a light source.

3. ‘Belgian Influence’ or the influence from Europe – Tonal colour palettes, detailing.

4. The application of metal detailing, whether it is antique brass, copper, nickel, pewter.

5. Creating luxury in unexpected places for example extending the comfort and styling of a reception room out onto the terrace or designing a glamorous kitchen with smoked glass and antique mirror.

. If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be?

Lighting is crucial, sophisticated lighting design with layers of light elevates the overall mood and design of a project.

. How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?

The awards are a great way to be recognised amongst our peers in the industry as well as celebrating our passion for design as a studio.

. What projects are you currently working on?

A 6,000 sq ft private residence in Berkeley Square, Mayfair, a 7,500 sq ft residence on a prime Belgravia square, 39 townhouses in Richmond for Berkeley Homes, a family home in Oxford and two family townhouses in Hampstead.

. What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?

International projects, a country house and a boutique hotel are on the wishlist!

. Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself

Your most treasured possession? a carved wooden antique mirror that used to belong to my grandfather

Your favourite holiday destination? La Bandita in Tuscany where we got married

Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?

Hotel – The Limewood Hotel

Restaurant– Pollen St Social

Bar – Berners Tavern at the London Edition Hotel, and the Boundary Hotel roof terrace for sunnier days.

Your favourite book / film / song?

Book – One Day

Film – The English Patient

Song – Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Israel Kamakawiwo’Ole (song I walked down the aisle to)

Your favourite food and drink? Italian food & wine

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? Alfresco dining with friends and family in the sunshine.

If you weren’t a designer, what would you be? I would own a boutique cake shop.