Mexican Divas

Yesterday, one of my very good friends asked me if México had any Divas.

 

His comment inspired this entry.  There are 3 Mexican Divas that come to mind.  Women that  were strong, independent, talented and overall beautiful in a time where this particular combo was unheard of.  These women are now considered legends.

 

María Félix – La Doña

 

FACTS

• Given Name - María de los Ángeles Félix Güereña.
• 1914 – 2002.
• Career – Film Actress (47 movies).

INTERESTING FACTS

• The Houses of Cartier and Hérmes collaborated with her to design her own jewellery collection.
• Félix was dressed by designers like Christian Dior, Givenchy, Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel and Balenciaga.
• Félix was painted by many artists, including Diego Rivera, Leonor Fini, Leonora Carrington, Bridget Tichenor and Antoine Tzapoff.
• Hobbies – Horse Racing.
• 3 songs where composed to honour her.

 

 

Dolores Del Río

 

FACTS

• Given Name - María de los Dolores Asúnsolo y López Negrete.
• 1905 –1983.
• Career – Film Actress (54 movies).

INTERESTING FACTS

• Most Popular Silent Movie Star in Hollywood.
• Female version of Rudolph Valentino.
• Principal Art Deco symbols of beauty.
• Orson Wells was her partner.
• A strong friendship with Frida Kahlo and was also painted by Diego Rivera.

 

 

Miroslava Stern

 

FACTS

• Given Name - Miroslava Šternová (1926 – 1955)
• Career – Film Actress (32 movies)

INTERESTING FACTS

• Miroslava born in Checoeslovakia but move to México as a child with her adopted parents in the late 30’s.
• Stern committed suicide by overdosing on sleeping pills.Her body was found lying outstretched over her bed, she had a portrait of bullfighter Luis Miguel Dominguín in one hand. Her friends stated her suicide was due to unrequited love for Dominguín, who had recently married Italian actress Lucia Bosé.

Eye Candy of the Week – Jonathan Adler by Lacoste

Jonathan Adler

 

PRODUCTS

Polo Shirt, Ping Pong Rackets, Bargellos, Tennis-racquet carrier, Pillows and Special Edition Lacoste Ceramic Crocodile.

 

MANUFACTURER

Lacoste

 

DESIGNER

Jonathan Adler

 

MATERIAL

Piqué Knit Cotton, Various

 

DESCRIPTION

Another great collaboration for the House of Adler and French design power house Lacoste.  We may pick up tennis or ping pong just to wear these fun and fresh ensembles!  We will have to wait until November when these beauties are made available to the public.

 

Lacoste has revealed at Paris Fashion Week a partnership with designer Jonathan Adler, a limited-edition run of polo shirts that gives the iconic René Lacoste French brand Adler's distinctive "happy chic" twist.

 

Instead of an applique sewn onto the shirt, the "Limited Edition" polos by Jonathan Adler have an actual needlepoint crocodile sewn onto the shirts by French nuns. Each of those will be sold packaged inside a Bargello  (embroidered) needlepoint tennis-racquet carrier rocking a silhouette of the crocodile against a classic Adler patterned background.

 

PRICE TAG

$ 150.00

$ 250.00

Limited Edition (price still to be determined)

 

YUMMY FACTOR

C’est Formidable!!!

In Conversation with Alberto Pinto

Alberto Pinto

 

Alberto Pinto's firm is based in Paris, France and takes on a vast array of projects including homes, corporate offices, jets and yachts on a global scale. His name has become a brand; from his work in interior design he has also launched lines of linens and tableware, decorative taps, furniture and even penned several books - including his latest 'Alberto Pinto Today'.

Alberto and his firm pride themselves in their ability to create a beautiful space no matter what the style. His portfolio is filled with everything from modern, classic, traditional, oriental and beyond.

 

Alberto appreciates a challenge which led him to taking on more unique spaces such as private yachts and jets. Regardless of the style, Alberto thoughtfully approaches every surface and every detail with his refined eye. His creations are filled with customized elements; upholstered walls, custom designed broadloom, architectural features and stunning artwork.

Mr. Pinto graduated from 'Ecole de Louvre' in Paris and opened a photography agency in New York specializing in decoration and interior design. It was during this time he developed his passion for interactions within a space. He was also influenced by the travels his career brought him - Mexico, India, and Italy among others. His firm now employs 60 people full-time and has become a media darling, with projects attracting the likes of Elle Décor, Interiors, Architectural Digest, H&G, Veranda magazines, Altitudes (jet magazine), Boat Design to name a few.

I'm very excited to get Alberto's opinion on the world of design, this will be our first interview with someone from France so I am sure it will bring a whole new perspective to our 'in conversation with' series. Please read on to get in on the conversation…

Iván Meade - What was your first experience with design?

 

Alberto Pinto – The turning point in my career took place rather by accident when I was based both in New York and Paris. During this intense working period, I was asked to do interior design for a very prestigious New York socialite. Calls for consultations and design work came so thick and fast that I decided to start this new business and form a new base in Paris.

 

Interior Design by Alberto Pinto

Iván Meade - You have accomplished something very unique in the interior design world; creating a strong, extremely well recognized and beautiful signature style - In this same manner however, your style keeps evolving - How or where do you find your inspiration?

Alberto Pinto – Very young my principal interest was travelling and I have always been curious by nature. I was inspired; eyes wide open, and captured these images like photographs in my mind. All this, plus a bit of Art culture at the « Ecole du Louvre » mixed together with my personality and perception of things makes my signature style. My style keeps evolving because I keep up to date with the times and I always move forward with a great curiosity and an open mind.

 

Interior Design by Alberto Pinto

 

Iván Meade – What is the story behind your design studio at the Hôtel de la Victoire?

 

Alberto Pinto - We were a team that had grown in need of space when the opportunity arouse to move our office to this beautiful formal private mansion from the 17th century – where apparently Bonaparte spent a night – It was a succession of large spaces which was perfect for the creation of friendly workspaces. We immediately felt the potential to create large open spaces with high ceilings, ideal for setting up offices in a spirit of loft, very open, helpful to work team.

 

In 2011 we are also taking over an extra 1500 m² to allow the agency to accommodate new teams specialized in hotels, to expand our design studio and where we can receive our suppliers to work with them.

 

Hôtel de la Victoire – Design Studio

 

Iván Meade - What is the inspiration behind your Arts de la Table, Table Linens and Furniture designs?

Alberto Pinto - I have loved Arts de la Table since my childhood and for me it is a hobby. The idea is to always have something refined whether for two or twenty guests, for a familial or a formal lunch or diner. I have neither specific inspiration, nor great theories it comes to me like it comes. I like strong pieces I mixed by color scheme or by contrary following my inspiration and always in a quick way.

 

Etna Lamp by Alberto Pinto

 

Recife by Alberto Pinto

 

Iván Meade – You have in my opinion one of the best and most complete portfolios in the word of interior design – Including Castles, Residences, Villas, Hotels, Offices, Yachts and even Private Jets. Which of these was your favourite type of project and why?

 

Alberto Pinto - I am extremely lucky to be in charge of all these projects where there is always a common theme in the knowhow and in the great sense of quality. Every one of these project had something particular which made it interesting. It is impossible to tell you which one I prefer because the place is as important as the client. The good combination of both is ideal.

 

Boeing 737 BBJ Privé by Alberto Pinto

 

Yacht Privé by Alberto Pinto

 

Iván Meade – What is the best advice you could give to somebody who is new in the world of design?

 

Alberto Pinto - To keep their eyes wide open, to try to photograph mentally the maximum of images and to keep also in mind to learn something new every day.

 

Interior Design by Alberto Pinto

 

Iván Meade – How will you describe the value of design?

 

Alberto Pinto – Eclecticism

 

Interior Design by Alberto Pinto

 

Iván Meade - What is your guilty pleasure?

 

Alberto Pinto - We can always do better. 

 

Interior Design by Alberto Pinto

 

Iván Meade - What is the most practical thing you own and what is the most rare?

 

Alberto Pinto - A 40 year old library collection on decoration and architecture.

 

Interior Design by Alberto Pinto

 

Iván Meade - What are you excited about right now in the world of design?

 

Alberto Pinto - I am less excited today than during the last decade, but I would say today I find fantastic on one side design is available to everyone even if the quality is not necessarily there and on the other side top quality is more expensive than ever . But I have the feeling design is less interesting today, easier to understand or appreciate.

 

Interior Design by Alberto Pinto

 

Iván Meade - What is your next design venture?

Alberto Pinto – Two projects very different in style and type of intervention

• Odeon Tower in Monaco : a very ambitious project : a unique address in Monaco. An exclusive residential offering that combines space and comfort, detail and quality finishes along with breathtaking views and upscale services. Impressive figures (surface area, number of floors).

• The Parisian “Hôtel Particulier” from the 17^th and 18^th centuries: very delicate programs of restauration for these historical places. Lambert, Soyecourt, Kinsky.

 

Hôtel Particulier Paris by Alberto Pinto

 

Iván Meade - Lastly, you have already created a stunning body of work with many mediums and styles. What would you like your legacy to be?

Alberto Pinto – One characteristic aspect of my work is the complete refusal of monotony and boredom of formulaic compositions. I like to juxtapose different shapes and eras.

About colors, I like strong, honest hues and do not hesitate to play with powerful contrast to give my interiors as much energy as possible.

 

Last but not least, the high quality of finishing is made possible because of the privileged partnership with French and European craftsmen and artisans d’art.

 

Interior Design by Alberto Pinto

 

I invite you to visit Alberto Pinto’s incredible websites at:

 

Eye Candy of the Week – Silver Smooth plate

 

PRODUCT

Silver Smooth – Center Piece

 

MANUFACTURER

Christofle

 

COLLECTION

Haute Orfèvrerie

 

DESIGNER

Karim Rashid

 

MATERIAL

Christofle Silver - Dorure Partielle

 

DIMENSIONS

• D. 50 CM
• H. 7 CM

LIMITED EDITION

20 pieces

 

DESCRIPTION

Christofle’s  new line of Haute Orfèvrerie designed by Canadian designer Karim Rashid is a collection that proves that forward thinking and respect for the use of old materials combined  with cutting-edge techniques like Clivetage (engraved metal), and Dorure Partielle (gold-plating).

 

Either surface of the The Silver Smooth center piece can be used or it can be left empty, as an exquisite Object d’Art.

 

PRICE TAG

$ 26,760.00

 

AVAILABLE AT:

(832) 230-1015
customer.service@christofle.com

YUMMY FACTOR

C’est Magnifique!!!

IN CONVERSATION WITH JEFF ANDREWS

Jeff Andrews

 

Jeff Andrews works flawlessly with an amazing balance of rustic, modern and classic elements to create spaces that embrace his client's personality and style. His spaces are warm and comfortable with layers of textures, forms and patterns that create an incredible and completely liveable ambiance.

 

On top of being featured in an endless list of press (including Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, and Better Homes and Gardens to name a few), he has received high praise from A-Listers such as the Kardashian family, Ryan Seacrest and Michael C. Hall, all raving about how well Jeff had interpreted their style and how personable he is. He has worked on projects internationally as well as locally, near his L.A. based firm.

 

Andrews began his career as a dancer, than choreographer and eventually was involved in everything to do with a production, including set-design. This foray piqued his interest and after he decorated his own 1920's duplex, he was hooked on interiors. It is his past as a dancer that influences his primary focus when it comes to designing a space: movement. I think this is a brilliant word for an element of a room. It's that sort of seen but unseen layer that really connects a space. From the path your eye takes while taking in a space, to the physical ability to move, to the life a room takes on, it's all 'movement'. It is Jeff's own philosophy that a room should never really be considered 'finished' or 'complete'; it should be in continual motion, little tweaks here and there when the mood strikes, or subtle updates as time goes on. It should move and live with you.

 

A unique perspective on design indeed, and I cannot wait to learn more about it. Please read on to get in on the conversation…

 

Jeff Andrews - First let me thank you for the amazing introduction! I am beyond flattered.

 

Iván Meade - What was your first experience with design?

 

Jeff Andrews – The idea of “the big picture” has always fascinated and interested me so in that respect design has always been a part of my life. My first professional interior design experience was with my now good friend Eleanor Mondale. She hired me to “style” a recently purchased home and I ended up designing the entire house. It was an a-ha moment for me for sure. Through the process with her, and her encouragement and trust, I found the courage to trust my design sense and aesthetic and pursue it as a career. We have since worked on homes in New York, South Hampton and Minnesota. Not bad for a rookie!

 

Interior Design by Jeff Andrews

 

Iván Meade - Who or what has influenced your style?

 

Jeff Andrews – I have been (and continue to be) influenced by so many things. Amazing master designers like Billy Haines, David Hicks and Andre Putman have definitely inspired me. More contemporary designers like Barbara Barry, Kerry Joyce and Roy McMakin have continued to influence me on different levels. I would have to say that I am most influenced by people of talent and taste that have lived a life of style that we most of us can only dream of and learn from…Yves Saint Laurent, Rudolph Nureyev and Coco Chanel to name a few. It is all about pulling bits that inspire you most and making them your own in design that make it a personally rewarding experience.

 

Interior Design by Jeff Andrews

 

Iván Meade - You have accomplished something very unique in the interior design world; creating a strong, extremely well recognized and beautiful signature style - In this same manner however, your style keeps evolving - How or where do you find your inspiration?

 

Jeff Andrews – Well first of all thank you! that is quite a compliment. I am majorly inspired by life in general. The lives of my clients, their needs and dreams of the perfect home keep me at the top of my problem solving, people pleasing, creative best. I feel that my personal style is a constantly evolving process that is fuelled by approaching each project with new eyes. If you trust yourself, your true creative eye will never let you down.

 

Interior Design by Jeff Andrews

 

Iván Meade - You have had the opportunity to work with many well-known clients such as Kardashian family, Ryan Seacrest and Michael C. Hall; is there anyone that you haven't worked with, but would like to?

 

Jeff Andrews – I have had some amazing clients! Celebrity does not make them better though. The advantage is that people get to see the work. The process is really quite the same in that there is a client/designer trust that has to be developed early in the relationship. The collaborative process has always been a big part of work for me. I think there is some divine path that leads me to the people I am supposed to work with and learn from. I can’t say that there is a particular person I am dying to work with. I love the journey I am on and time will tell….

 

Interior Design by Jeff Andrews

 

Iván Meade - Do you ever get star-struck when meeting these clients for the first time?

 

Jeff Andrews – Not really star struck. Sometimes it is difficult at first to separate the public persona or character from the real person. That fades fast. It is a very personal process when you are working on and in someone’s home. The process and progress quickly becomes the main priority. And as I said before the trust is key.

 

Interior Design by Jeff Andrews

 

Iván Meade - What is the most practical thing you own and what is the most rare?

 

Jeff Andrews – The most practical has to be a tape measure. Proportion is so important to me and at times my most challenging detail. I have worked with a few basketball players and let me tell you that design is a challenge on a completely different level with very tall people! The most rare.

 

Interior Design by Jeff Andrews

 

Iván Meade - Browsing through your portfolio one can see that you have worked in Italy as well. How was your experience working in Europe?

 

Jeff Andrews - Amazing! For furnishing the home we shopped at vintage stores in Milan, London and Rome…I mean what could be better?

 

Interior Design by Jeff Andrews

 

Iván Meade - What are you excited about right now in the world of design?

 

Jeff Andrews – I am excited about the possibilities. The economic restraints have made people more creative and more responsible about design. It is not really about how much money you have but what you do with it. Sometimes with large budgets people get lazy and predictable. I am most excited about what the future will hold for me in design. I have never been more motivated!

 

Interior Design by Jeff Andrews

 

Iván Meade - What does it feel like to be announced as one of Top 20 Young Designers in America by Traditional Home?

 

Jeff Andrews – The fact that you said “young” designers makes me feel amazing! Seriously, to be at the top of any designer list is such an honour for me. Traditional home is a great platform for designers and the new Tradhome is the future of on line design inspiration. It embraces the New Traditional design style that is rooted in tradition yet entirely void of rules and open to interpretation based creativity and lifestyle. I am proud to be a part of it!

 

Interior Design by Jeff Andrews

 

Iván Meade - Lastly, you have already created a stunning body of work with many mediums and styles, what would you like your legacy to be?

 

Jeff Andrews – Interiors that have movement, a voice and will last the test of time.

 

I invite you to visit Jeff Andrew’s website and social media at:

 

FACEBOOK - TWITTER

Design for the Designers

The latest design find for local designers, architects and stagers is the much buzzed about Design District Studio (or DDS as it is affectionately known within Victoria's design scene). A flexible, economical, and practical solution for many consultants in town that do not have their own studio space or sample library.

 

 

Members receive a multitude of benefits including the use of the space for client meetings, use of the extensive samples available for sourcing and presentations, as well as access to all of the DDS accounts for ordering fabrics, furniture, wallpaper, fixtures and more. The Design District Studio also offers very helpful advice including trade and installer references, assistance with sourcing and use of the space for private functions.

 

 

What's more, Design District studio also offers weekly updates and regular design events to keep members connected and informed. They also allow any business mail or shipments to be delivered to the studio if a member does not want to give out their home address to clients and suppliers.

 

We've heard nothing but positive feedback from Design District Studio members and affiliates. Kudos are certainly in order to Danisha Drury and Donna Morrison for making this wonderful resource available, thank you ladies!

 

Danisha Dury

 

 

The Design District Studio is located at 1826 Government St, Victoria, BC V8T 4N5 - PH (250) 590-8598

 

www.designdistrictstudioinc.com

 

Ivan Meade is a local designer and principal of Meade Design Group, a multidisciplinary interior and graphic design studio in the heart of downtown Victoria – www.meadedesigngroup.com

IN CONVERSATION WITH GRANT K. GIBSON

Grant K. Gibson

Grant K. Gibson doesn't necessarily fit into a box when it comes to design style. But that is by no means a drawback! He masterfully executes designs that are traditional, modern, youthful, eclectic, or rustic - but they are always immaculately well done. And wouldn't you know, he's a witty blogger too?

Grant founded Grant K. Gibson Interior Design in 2002 and now works across the continent with offices in San Francisco and New York. The firm strives to create spaces that are direct representations of his clients, without any imposed nuances or elements that are not befitting of their personalities. 'No project is too large or two small in our eyes" says the company profile, as well as a firm stance on attention to detail and customer service and satisfaction.

Our readers have most likely heard of Grant before, he has had numerous features in Elle Décor, House Beautiful, Traditional Home, and Better Homes & Gardens. He has also received prestigious positioning within these pages, including being names as one of "The 10 Designers to Watch" in Domino, and the "5 Designers to Watch" in Elle Décor.

His blog has also been well-received, Grant's focus is typically design-related, but he certainly touches on other elements of his life including his love of fashion, food and travel.

He is a true design star and we are thrilled to get his input for our 'In Conversation With' series, read on to get in on the conversation…

Ivan Meade - What was your first experience by design?

Grant K. Gibson - I would have to say that my first design experience was designing my childhood bedroom. Even at a really young age, I was always changing things around and moving things, painting the walls and taking up carpet to show the hardwood floors hidden under.

My path to design really started when I was in college studying for a degree in psychology (which has totally come in very handy in interior design) I was on the path to become a psychologist when a good friend told me about an art history class that she thought that I should sit in on. Before the end of the lecture, I had already made up my mind that I was going to switch majors. That really started my love of art and architecture and design. In New York, I then interned and worked a few antique stores and then started to do my own apartment as well as friends who liked the way that I did my apartment.

I then thought, why not try to do my own thing and start my own company in interior design. The dream was then born and then I ended up moving to San Francisco, where I really started to get serious about my design company. New York always holds a spot in my heart, so I am happy that I can have the best of both words and work between both cities with offices in both New York and San Francisco.

Interior Design by Grant K. Gibson

Iván Meade – What is the most practical thing you own and what is the most rare?

Grant K. Gibson - I think that the most practical piece that I own is a custom table that I designed with a very tailored slipcover over it. I love that it can serve as a desk or table and I can make a mess with paperwork or books or fabrics, but then at the end of the day, I can put things in baskets and hide them away. Under the table, I also have a small file cabinet for important papers and a printer. I don't like to look at those things, so it is wonderful to keep those things hidden.

As for the most rare piece that I own. It would be a Beidermeir secretary that I have in my dining room. I purchased it around 5 years ago as a birthday treat to myself. It was from a dealer in New York. I simply fell in love with it and just bought it on the spot. It was the most spontaneous purchase that I have ever made, but I look at it everyday and it makes me smile.

Interior Design by Grant K. Gibson

Iván Meade - What should every room have in it?

Grant K. Gibson - Every room should have good lighting. With this, I suggest having everything on dimmers. This is from the overhead lighting and table/floor lamps. Lamps that are on too bright are too harsh.

I also think that it is key to have a layering of lighting, so that it is not all from one light source. The layering adds dimension and depth to a space. Bad lighting can really kill a room.

Interior Design by Grant K. Gibson

Iván Meade - What do you think the homes of today are missing?

Grant K. Gibson - Were do I start? Architectural details? History? creativity and originality? I don't understand builders that construct new houses that have horrible construction or lack of architecture at all. These details really help to make a space. When I say creativity or originality- by this I mean I see lots of people with these cookie-cutter designs. They have what everyone else has. This is the problem that we face with so many big companies. I feel like creating custom, fine crafted pieces are like pieces of art and make a space feel unique and individual. I am not suggesting that a whole house has to be custom, but mixing styles and sources and making it your own is what I think is interesting about a space.

An interior is about the people that live in them. It should reflect their lifestyle- how they live and what they like.

Interior Design by Grant K. Gibson

Iván Meade - What do you look for in a furniture piece?

Grant K. Gibson - Like we just talked about with custom design, I tend to do a lot of custom pieces for my clients. When I look at pieces or am working with my vendors to create pieces, I am looking for quality and something that is timeless. I like pieces of furniture to be able to last for many years. If someone gets tired of the fabric, it can be re-covered.

Interior Design by Grant K. Gibson

Iván Meade - One of the elements that I really like about your design aesthetic is that you always use real art in your projects and elements with old world patina - Is this part of your design philosophy?

Grant K. Gibson - Thank you. I do like to mix in things with a touch of old world charm. Trust me, not all of my clients like that look at all. I like to think of myself a traditionalist- but a new traditionalist. I love and respect things that come from the past, but I like to mix them up and play with things and make them more current today. I like to keep things light and not to heavy handed. I think of this as being not the way that your parents or grandparents would have had. I work with a lot of young couples that want to keep it fresh and fun. I do like to add an element of humor and surprise if I can to every project. I would say overall that I have an eclectic style and have really enjoyed learning and pushing the limits with my clients over the past years.

Interior Design by Grant K. Gibson

Iván Meade - What is your approach to lifestyle and design?

Grant K. Gibson - I wake up everyday and I pinch myself. I have been very fortunate in life and I love what I do. So many people have jobs that they are not passionate about. My job keeps me on my toes (and can be a challenge for sure). It's not like all I do is go shopping and pick out pretty things all day long. I think that overall, I have a pretty positive outlook and attitude on life. I am a pretty relaxed and funny person. This I feel like reflected in the designs that I work with in my client projects. I am pretty clear with my clients from the start that there will be delays and always some issues along the. I like to tell them that really there is no such thing as a "design emergency". At the end of the day, we still have people without jobs, children starving in the world and so many other things to think about. It is not that I am a lazy designer and make excuses at all, I take each project very seriously. I just feel that we don't leave this world with any of the things that we have collected or purchased. Buying things doesn't solve problems or at the end of the day make people happy.

Interior Design by Grant K. Gibson

Iván Meade – You seem to really enjoy blogging, which is part of what makes your blog so much fun to read. What is your favourite thing about blogging?

Grant K. Gibson - For me, my blog is very one sided. It is pretty much about me and my life. I don't really blog too much on other designers or use recycled photos of spaces. I love writing about my travels and my projects that I am working on. I have loved connecting with other designers and bloggers out there. That part has been wonderful to meet other people that are interested in the same things.

Interior Design by Grant K. Gibson

Iván Meade – It’s great that you share some of your personal life with your bloggers as well, such as your own personal and clients projects. What has that process been like?

Grant K. Gibson - When I started my blog, I started it so that I could share photos of a trip to Paris with friends back home. I thought that it was a way that I could put up photos and talk about my time. After returning home, I thought about it and I decided to just start writing more and keep it up. That was around 3 years ago. For me it has been an amazing tool to put myself out there and for people to get to know me more. I have actually found many clients because of it. They have told me that they felt like that were able to get to know me more by reading my blog. By my cooking or traveling or all of my adventures. I think that often a website is static and it doesn't get updated very often. A blog is meant to get updated frequently (I try to blog once a week) and be up to date.

Interior Design by Grant K. Gibson

Iván Meade - What is the best advice (design related or otherwise) that you have ever received?

Grant K. Gibson - Years ago, a very wise and well known design in this industry told me to: Never forget that you are the designer and they are the client and not to live the same lifestyle that the client does. He meant that so many designers get caught up in the design world and end up trying to live the same lifestyle that the client does. This designer also told me to give the client what they want. That has been key for me. There are times that I might not like exactly what they have selected. I have to remember that they are the ones that will be living there at the end of the project- not me.

Interior Design by Grant K. Gibson

Iván Meade - What does it feel like to be announced as one of Top 5 Designers to watch in America by Elle Décor Magazine?

Grant K. Gibson - I am still on top of the world from this. I have been reading Elle Decor forever. I always had big dreams of being published in the pages of Elle Decor one day. When Margaret Russell picked up the phone to call me to tell me that she wanted to select me as one of the Top 5 designers to watch- I nearly dropped the phone.

I feel honoured and know what a special and unique being selected by Elle Decor is. To be honest, my life hasn't been the same since. I have received a great group of wonderful new clients and I couldn't be happier.

Interior Design by Grant K.Gibson

Iván Meade – What is next for Grant K. Gibson Interior Design?

Grant K. Gibson - Well, I am always playing with the idea of a line of fabric and furniture and I have actually started a book. All of which might take me years to complete. I am in no rush and I am not going anywhere!