Personalised Home Interiors: Design a Home that Reflects Your Style with Insights from Kia Stanford

What inspired you to become an interior designer?

As an interior designer, my passion for travel and exploring diverse cultures has greatly influenced my work. Visiting various parts of the world has given me the opportunity to see and appreciate different design aesthetics and styles, which has greatly inspired me. I find that my travels allow me to take inspiration from the world around me, from the colours and textures of exotic landscapes to the local handicrafts and artisanal designs.

In addition to my love for travel, I am also passionate about art and architecture. I am fascinated by the way that different architectural styles can shape the way we live, and I believe that a great interior design should complement the architecture of the building it is in. Furthermore, I am always looking for new ways to incorporate art into my designs, whether it’s through a striking piece of sculpture or a beautifully framed painting.

My fascination with fabrics, textures, and colour palettes has also been a major factor in my career as an interior designer. I believe that the right combination of fabrics and textures can make a room feel warm and inviting, while the use of colour can create a sense of harmony and balance. I am always experimenting with new fabrics and colour schemes to find the perfect balance in each project.

How do you approach a new design project?

The team at Kia Designs studio believes that each project is unique, and therefore requires a unique approach.

At the beginning of a new project, the studio’s team will first conduct a thorough consultation with the client to understand their needs, preferences, and vision for the project – our client inspiration meeting. This involves discussing the client’s lifestyle, interests, and any specific requirements they may have for the space. The team also takes into consideration the architecture and the existing features of the property.

After the initial consultation, the studio’s designers will then begin to develop a concept for the project. This involves creating mood boards, sketches, and 3D renders to communicate their vision for the space. They also carefully select the materials, finishes, and furniture pieces that will best complement the design concept.

Once the concept has been approved by the client, the team at Kia Designs studio will begin the design development stage, where they will create detailed drawings, specifications, and schedules for the project. They will also liaise with contractors and suppliers to ensure that the project is executed to the highest standard.

Throughout the entire design process, the team at Kia Designs studio maintains open communication with the client through Basecamp to ensure that their vision for the space is fully realised. They also strive to incorporate sustainable and eco-friendly design practices into their projects whenever possible.

What design principles do you follow?

Our design studio follows a set of design principles to create elegant, timeless and bold interiors that reflect our clients’ unique styles and personalities. One of the key principles the studio emphasises is functionality. The team takes into consideration the clients’ lifestyles and needs to ensure that their designs meet our clients’ functional requirements. We believe that good design should be both practical and beautiful.

We place a high value on proportion. We believe that proportion is key to creating a well-designed space. The team carefully consider the scale and proportion of each element in a room, from furniture to lighting, to create a sense of balance and harmony. By doing so, we can create a space that feels comfortable and proportionate.

Texture is another key principle that we emphasise. We believe that incorporating a variety of textures into a design adds depth and interest to a space. We experiment with different textures and materials, such as natural wood, stone, and fabrics, to create a tactile and inviting environment. This approach helps create a space that feels inviting and comfortable.

The studio also places great emphasis on the use of colour in our designs. We use colour to create mood and evoke emotions in a space. The team carefully considers the tones, shades, and hues of colours and uses them to highlight architectural features or create focal points in a room. We believe that colour is a powerful tool in interior design and can greatly enhance a space.

Our studio places great importance on detailing. We pay close attention to the details of a space, from the selection of decorative elements to the finishing touches. We believe that the smallest details can make the biggest impact in a room. By paying attention to the details, we can create a space that feels complete and polished.

How do you identify the needs of the client when designing a space?

As an interior designer, I believe that identifying the needs of my clients is essential to creating a successful design. When starting a new project, I follow a meticulous process to gather as much information as possible about my clients and their requirements.

I begin by conducting a thorough interview with the client to understand their lifestyle, tastes, and preferences. I ask questions about their daily routines, habits, and hobbies to gain a clear understanding of how they use and interact with their space. This helps me identify the functional requirements of the space and the design elements that will support the client’s needs.

Once I have a clear understanding of the client’s needs, I focus on developing a design concept that will meet those needs while also reflecting the client’s personality and style. I carefully consider the architecture of the space, the natural light, and the client’s desired aesthetic to create a design that is both functional and beautiful. I also place great emphasis on the use of materials and textures in my designs. I select materials that not only look beautiful but also meet the practical needs of the space. For example, if a client has children or pets, I may choose durable and easy-to-clean materials that can withstand wear and tear.

Throughout the design process, I maintain close communication with my clients to ensure that their needs are being met and that they are satisfied with the progress of the project. I make sure to listen carefully to their feedback and incorporate their input into the design whenever possible.

I believe that identifying the needs of my clients is critical to creating a successful design. By conducting thorough interviews, carefully considering their lifestyles and tastes, and selecting materials and textures that meet both their aesthetic and functional needs, I create designs that are not only beautiful but also highly functional and personalized to my clients’ needs.