Goddard Design Group have been shortlisted for 6 categories in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2020. Find out more about their Owner and Principal Designer, Chris Goddard, below:
Name: Chris Goddard
Company: Goddard Design Group
Position within company: Owner and Principal Designer
Website: www.goddarddesigngroup.com
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I am founder and principal designer of Goddard Design Group. With over 30 years of design experience, my visionary approach is to design each space so it tells a story or evokes a mood. Through eclectic style and attention to detail, I strive to create an artful mixture of elegance with personal history. Each client is unique, and by tailoring to their needs, environment and history, I’m able to create an inheritable space which will welcome generations for years to come. “A life worth living is a life well lived.” This is my mantra, and I tackle each day with the expectation to change and enhance lives through design. Some further details include:
● Member of A.S.I.D., I.D.S. where I serve as vice president of the Arkansas chapter, and the Design Leadership Network
● Voted best interior designer by regional and national shelter magazines throughout the past decades
● Nominated for the 2017 and 2019 Andrew Martin International Interior Designer of the Year and featured in Andrew Martin Interior Design Review Volumes 21 and 23
● Received an 2018 ASID Award of Excellence, two 2019 IDS Designer of the Year Awards, and an award from The International Design & Architecture Awards through Design et al
● Hosted a design show on Voice America Radio and have been featured on numerous blogs and in a variety of articles on design.
How would you describe your personal design style?
My personal style is eclectic, sentimental, and based on what I’m inspired by each morning. Much like a goose, I wake up in a new world everyday.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
I find inspiration in everything from the colors on fast food signs to the view from my car window as I drive to work. One has to constantly be evolving and learning. If you are doing the same thing you did last year, you’re doing something wrong.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
Design is becoming much more personal. I’m not a fan of ”trends.” Our clients are becoming more focused on quality and individuality, so spaces will feel timeless and effortless. I believe a space should always reflect the client, not the designer.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2020 and beyond.
1. Quality
2. Timeless
3. Uniqueness
4. Storytelling
5. Personalization
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
I’m a strong believer that every project should have at least one antique element. Whether the space is ultra modern or traditional, something old gives the space a sense of history and soul.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
Awards and accolades are great global exposure for designers whose work otherwise might not be seen on such a large scale. They also add value to your brand and garner respect for your work from your peers and other industry professionals.
What projects are you currently working on?
Goddard Design Group specializes in both residential and commercial global design. We stay busy averaging over 30 projects a year around the globe. I am most excited about a penthouse we are designing in the Cayman Islands and our work with Coldwell Banker Global Luxury on creating their first real estate boutique office. No two projects are ever the same, so I truly enjoy all the work and daily challenges.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
I am a firm believer in learning something new everyday. My main goals for the upcoming year are becoming more savvy with design-based technology, developing my furnishing and fabric lines, and most importantly being a better leader and communicator with my amazing team.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession?
A gold coin given to me by my grandmother from the year she was born
Your favourite holiday destination?
Gstaad, Switzerland
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Hotel Danieli in Venice Nur in Fez, Morocco 5 Hertford Street in London
Your favourite book, film & song?
The Little Prince, Steel Magnolias and Fancy by Reba McEntire
Your favourite food and drink?
Gnocchi, Green Tea
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Watching classic movies or reading – both for inspiration
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
I can’t imagine being anything else.
Chris Goddard and Goddard Design Group have been shortlisted for 6 categories in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2020.
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