Name: Rupert Martineau
Company: Spence Harris Hogan Ltd., SHH
Position within company: Associate & Head of Residential Interiors
Website: www.SHH.co.uk
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
Having studied Interior Design at Chelsea College of Art and Design, completing his studies in 2003. Over the past decade he has worked for a number of London’s biggest-name interior designers, including Mary Fox Linton and Martin Hulbert at Fox Linton Associates, Helen Green Design and Louise Bradley, giving him a wealth of background experience.
How would you describe your personal design style?
There are always classical influences in my work whether it’s a contemporary new build or historic refurbishment. I would say ‘Collaborative, detailed and modern’. We have a fantastic team at SHH and wonderful clients. It is our ability to knit these together to develop a strong brief that allows us to deliver the extraordinary.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
Travelling and nature. I love to find interesting details whenever I’m abroad. Anything from historic architecture to cultural influences helps me to bring elements of the human and natural world into our interiors.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
Hopefully it’s being ever more influenced by the need to be environmentally responsible. It is achievable at the super house end of the market but inevitably it’s about educating the client, our suppliers and the supply chain.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2020 and beyond.
- Environmental responsibility
- Longevity
- Collaboration
- Eclectic collections
- Working with the Abstract
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Try and capture a sense of humour and quirky element to surprise and delight.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
They are a fabulous way of enabling designers to showcase their work and exchange ideas.
What projects are you currently working on?
We have several exciting projects in London, Abu Dhabi and the US. Everything from an incredible lateral apartment on Regents Park and Listed town houses in Mayfair and Marylebone right through to super homes in North London and abroad
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Not long in the world of Interior Design! Deliver great design, produce detailed and fully coordinated packages that work, keep my clients happy and keep mentoring our incredible team of architects and interior designers.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession?
Not a possession but it has to be my family
Your favourite holiday destination?
Europe – All of it!
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Ellerman House, Cape Town
J Sheekey, London
My local pub
Your favourite book, film & song?
Matter – Iain M Banks
The Incredibles
Ramble On – Led Zeppelin.
Your favourite food and drink?
Steak Frites with Bearnaise sauce
A tasty Margaux
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
With my children
SHH have been shortlisted in 4 categories in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2020 with their Private Villa Dubai project.
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If you think you have what it takes to complete in The International Design & Architecture Awards, submit your application by clicking here.