Name:  Antonella Tesei

Company: Studio Tesei

Position within company: Owner

Website: www.studiotesei.it

. Tell us a little about your background in design

Degree in Architecture at the Politecnico of Milan, master in design and graphic design at the “Scuola Politecnica del Design”. Several work experiences in companies, which produce furniture and objects.

. How would you describe your personal interior design style?

Search for consistency and elegance combining different materials, contemporary and old objects

. Where does your design inspiration come from?

My inspiration springs from the conversations with clients and their willing in order to create spaces and atmospheres, which can be the most fulfilling and unique. Furthermore, my inspiration comes from observation of nature and history.

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

After globalization, design has to rediscover the distinctiveness of each place to make the each project very related to it and unique. Furthermore, design through technology has to move towards saving energy, reuse of materials and objects, sustainability.

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

Consistency, durability of materials and shapes, new techniques, dialogue with the past and the place, energetic aspects.

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

Find the real essence of the place to alter and find its dominant character.

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

The International Design Architecture Awards are very important in recognising new talents and give designers and clients the opportunity to meet.

. What projects are you currently working on?

As an architect I’m developing residential areas and refurbishing old buildings.

As a designer with partners, we working on developing the industrial project of a new mural material which comes from the Roman architecture, interpreted under a contemporary vision. Furthermore, in designing new aluminium furniture and pieces.

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

My main goal is to broaden my work as an architect as a designer in foreign countries.

. Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself

Your most treasured possession? Two Japanese old paintings

Your favourite holiday destination? Southern Africa

Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?

Okahirongo Elephant lodge – Namibia,

Zero – Milan fusion restaurant,

Colbert London

Your favourite book / film / song?

The agony and the ecstasy by Irvine Stone,

Marygold Hotel and Sonhos by Caetano Veloso.

Your favourite food and drink? Crustacean and champagne

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? A good nap, jogging in the park and after a special appetizer with the people I love.

If you weren’t a designer, what would you be? A jeweller

Anything else interesting?

Natural sensibility for different materials and metals.