COVETED : What has inspired you to grow, personally and professionally?

Jean-Philippe Nuel : Approaching my dreams!

How would you describe your style? Do you have a signature touch on your projects?

I have a contemporary vision of design, I do not like an excessive interior design style and a too lavish decoration. As for literary where each word has its right place, I like to give meaning and depth to my projects.

Where do you draw your inspiration from when you are thinking about the design of a hotel?

My main inspiration comes from the location of the project: the country, the region, the city, the district and the architecture of the building are all important for me.

Of course all those criteria are not always mixed altogether or mixed at the same level, but in a general way, I can say that I am always inspired by the place.

I also like to be inspired by the client, whether it is a brand identity or the personality of a private client.

Check out as well : TOP INTERIOR DESIGNERS | CAMPANA BROTHERS

Why are hotel projects so exciting for you?

Hotel projects are considered as the Holy Grail for interior designers. Hotel projects are the best opportunity to build a complete world.

For me a hotel is a place which concentrates all the needs of our society: a place to work, a place to live and rest. Hotels are places that display the best our society’s changes.

Is there anything exciting, that you are working on at the moment, and you can tell us about? Any new projects?

Hotel projects are always very interesting, especially when the country or the city and even the continent are different from my own culture.

I am very curious and fortunately I have achieved several projects in architecture, furniture design and lighting design.

I have just designed a restaurant chain and I am currently designing the interior design of several office buildings which are very interesting projects as the world is facing a complete transformation.

I have also designed several interior design projects for arenas: Parc des Princes and Stade de France in Paris.

Can you tell us about one of your favorite projects that you have developed?

«Le 5 Codet» is amongst my favorite projects. It is a private hotel in Paris with around 70 guestrooms where I had a truthful partnership with the client to create a place that really seems achieved to me and that reveals my own personality.

See also : TOP INTERIOR DESIGNERS | JORGE CANETE

What do you love in a deluxe hotel room?

I like to be surprised, but not being inconvenienced. I like the idea of appropriating the room, the possibility of several scenarios and ways of living, without being locked in a forced scheme.

What do you hate in a deluxe hotel room?

I don’ like fake, kitsch and showy luxury, I also don’t like lies and mediocrity.

Which professionals do you admire, in the architecture and design world?

Being an interior designer is a difficult job where only the ones who have something to say are successful. I really admire those who have a constituent universe.

Describe yourself in three words.

Curious. Passionate. Perfectionist.

Parisian Living Rooms Inspired by Jean-Philippe Nuel

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Parisian living rooms shaped by the vision of designer Jean-Philippe Nuel offer a stunning balance between contemporary design and inviting warmth. Renowned for his bold yet welcoming approach to interior design, Nuel creates spaces that blend minimalist elegance with functional comfort. His designs for Parisian interiors reflect a modern interpretation of French luxury, combining sleek lines with thoughtful textures to craft environments that are both stylish and livable, providing a refined yet approachable aesthetic.

Francesca Amfitheatrof, Louis Vuitton‘s artistic director of jewelry, has reshaped the brand’s high jewelry division, combining historical inspirations with bold creativity. In this exclusive interview, she discusses her journey, design philosophy, and the making of Deep Time, Maison’s largest high jewelry collection.

  From Tokyo to Paris: A Global Designer  

Born in Tokyo to a multicultural family, Amfitheatrof grew up in cities like New York, London, and Rome, which fueled her eclectic artistic vision. A serendipitous O-Level art project ignited her passion for jewelry, leading her to train at Central Saint Martins and Chelsea College of Arts, where her talent for three-dimensional design flourished.  

Francesca Amfitheatrof

A Journey Through Design

  Amfitheatrof’s career spans decades of collaboration with fashion icons. Her early works were admired by Karl Lagerfeld and Giorgio Armani, while her tenure at Tiffany & Co. saw the creation of iconic collections like Tiffany T and HardWear. In 2018, she joined Louis Vuitton to spearhead a new era of high jewelry, taking on the ambitious task of building a jewelry division from scratch.  

 

 

 

 

 

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Uma publicação partilhada por Francesca Amfitheatrof (@francescaamfitheatrof)

Jewelry as Armor: The Deep Time Collection

Amfitheatrof’s designs often channel strength and resilience, as evident in her Deep Time collection. Inspired by Earth’s geological history, the collection unfolds in two chapters: Geology and Life. Pieces like the Gondwana necklace reflect tectonic shifts, while a flower-cut diamond centerpiece symbolizes the planet’s transformative power.  

“We were all one supercontinent once,” Amfitheatrof muses. “The gemological veins of the Earth tell this incredible story.”

 

A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation  

Under her leadership, Louis Vuitton’s jewelry has become synonymous with storytelling. She has introduced iconic motifs like the monogram star cut and explored new frontiers with collections such as Les Gastons Vuitton, a bold men’s jewelry line inspired by Gaston-Louis Vuitton.  

  Beyond Jewelry  

Amfitheatrof’s creativity extends beyond gemstones. From curating the Gucci Garden to modern art collaborations, she thrives in multidisciplinary projects. Living in Roxbury, Connecticut, she balances her family life with a relentless drive to push the boundaries of design.  

 

 

 

 

 

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Looking Ahead

Amfitheatrof continues to shape Louis Vuitton’s jewelry future, with collections planned through 2026. “Sometimes,” she reflects, “it’s best to be a bit more relaxed in life, but my designs always start with a story waiting to be told.”  

 

 

 

 

 

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Uma publicação partilhada por Francesca Amfitheatrof (@francescaamfitheatrof)

Francesca Amfitheatrof’s legacy at Louis Vuitton is a testament to her vision and artistry, blending heritage with innovation to redefine what high jewelry can be.

“In Lisbon, it has been a very interesting job because since the first building, it has been expanding to the immediately adjacent buildings, which made the project quite interesting,” Isabel Sá Nogueira explains, referencing the captivating expansion projects she’s undertaken. Expressing the evolution of her work, she recounts, “The Torel Avantgarde is already, if I’m not mistaken, 5 or 6 years old. The one in Lisbon is 10, just completed 10 years since its inception. We have just finished the expansion of the third hotel building because there is still another apartment building where we partnered with Boca do Lobo.” Reflecting on a significant milestone in her career, she recalls, “A very special part is that the Torel, the one in Lisbon, was my first hotel in terms of work, of a project. Until then, I only had residential projects, and Torel Lisbon was my first hotel project.”

Discussing her approach to projects, Isabel Sá Nogueira emphasizes her adaptability to each space and building, stating, “With each project, I like to get to know the building, the location, and what is intended to be done with that building. And usually from there, the building itself and what they are asking me to do will tell me what I have to do.”

Detailing the thematic essence of her design for the Torel Avantgarde, Isabel Sá Nogueira explains, “Essentially, the hotel project would be a theme of Portugal’s queens. Combining both, the space itself, the building, with its architecture, plus the proposed theme, clearly resulted in a more classical decoration.”

Diving into the nuances of her design philosophy for hotels, she elaborates, “There are intimate details there that are found in houses and not in hotels. And that’s the difference I tried to make. I think that makes a difference.” Reflecting on specific design elements, Isabel Sá Nogueira expresses admiration for intricate details, mentioning, “The mirrors with the gilded frames, which I find beautiful, with one that’s cracked and the other one that’s dented. I find them beautiful and think they have everything to do with the old times.”

In admiration of the craftsmanship and attention to detail, she reflects, “I find everything fascinating. I think they really manage to go into all the details. From woodworking, to brass, to all aspects. And they manage to do extraordinary things.” Isabel Sá Nogueira’s narrative offers a glimpse into her design ethos, weaving together historical inspiration and meticulous detailing to create spaces that evoke elegance and timeless allure.

Expressing admiration for a furniture line, Jody Tyson enthuses, “I love this line. It’s been in my wheelhouse for a number of years. They’re just stunning. The workmanship is quality and beautiful. I’m very impressed with the company.” Reflecting on her visit to the factories, Tyson highlights the artisans’ dedication, “The people just cared so much about what they were doing. They’re very attentive to detail, looking at every fine thing that they were putting together.” “Loving lighting, I think lighting is the jewelry of the house,” Jody Tyson emphasizes her passion for illuminating spaces. “I love to even design lighting myself. I’ve come to my representative here, and she’s helped me create things that will work for my homes. Your bar stools and furniture pieces, it’s just a beautiful line.”

Currently embarking on a substantial renovation project, Jody Tyson shares, “I’m working on a home, renovating about a 7,000 square foot home. I’ve created wonderful outdoor areas, indoor courtyards, and living in Las Vegas, you need lots of pergolas to keep out the heat in the summertime.” Detailing her approach to new projects, Jody Tyson explains, “Creating a new project might involve changing up colors in a rug design or redoing interior doors. I see that I create something different in every room but use a lot of lighting as accents.”

Expressing gratitude for her first visit to a specific location, Jody Tyson reflects, “I was honored to be invited, and it’s been a wonderful trip so far. My daughter and I traveled together. She works for me, and we’re going on to different parts of Portugal and Spain for the next couple of weeks. We love to travel a lot.” Through Jody Tyson’s insights, a tapestry of global inspirations and meticulous design considerations emerges, showcasing a passion for unique elements that enrich the spaces she crafts at Jody’s Inspiration.

I’m the interior designer from Fiona Lau Interiors. And we do special custom was also home. And we do project between 2,000 square feet to 20,000 square feet,” Lau introduces her realm of expertise. Fiona Lau’s design philosophy revolves around crafting homes that stand the test of time. “We want to keep the style that will last long like long lasting. So it’s like those five timeless jewelry. So it will be very long lasting. So it will be not outdated,” she articulates, emphasizing the essence of timeless design akin to enduring jewelry.

Discussing her expectations from furniture companies, especially for larger-scale projects, Fiona Lau anticipates the ‘wow factor.’ “I’m expecting to see the wow factor and very unique design from from the furniture company,” she notes, seeking inspiration for her expansive 20,000 square foot modern luxury home. Her recent encounter with a furniture brand left a lasting impression. “I do see this furniture brand is very delicate. So every pieces, they are all handmade with, with heart, with, with the very delicate thinking and consideration to make these beautiful pieces,” Fiona Lau remarks, expressing admiration for the brand’s craftsmanship and unique character.

Fiona Lau finds an alluring balance in the furniture collection, observing its ability to merge modernity and tradition. “I like the furniture because like some of the pieces are very modern and with the wow factor, it will bring the like a focal point to the house,” she explains, highlighting its diverse appeal to modern and classic sensibilities.

Detailing an ongoing project—a luxurious 20,000 square foot modern home in a gated community—Lau unveils its opulent features. “And then I believe one of the safe balls from your collection will really fit into it, because he can put the safe out in the in the garage, that he can showcase cars, and then he can put his car key into the safe house,” Lau envisions integrating a safe from the furniture collection into the lavish garage space.

In Fiona Lau’s eyes, the meticulousness and organization of a Portuguese manufacturer stand out. “But this one is really nice and clean. And then I feel like this is very organized. So it’s like step by step, very organized, very professional,” she commends, reflecting on her first-time experience at the manufacturing facility. Through Fiona Lau’s lens, design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a narrative woven with threads of timelessness, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. Her pursuit of design excellence resonates in the enduring legacy she endeavors to create within luxury interiors.

This showroom is a testament to Covet Group’s commitment to innovation, showcasing not only their renowned bestsellers but also featuring seasonal updates with fresh additions, providing a dynamic experience for every visitor. More than a mere display, it’s an invitation to witness the evolution of design firsthand. But the experience doesn’t halt at the showroom’s entrance. Attendees will embark on an odyssey through various production units, an opportunity to engage directly with skilled artisans and witness the augmentation of production capabilities. This engagement provides a deeper understanding of the meticulous craftsmanship embedded in every Covet Group creation.

EXPLORE THE INSIGHTS AND EXPERIENCES OF INTERIOR DESIGNERS REGARDING THEIR VISIT TO COVET GROUP:

Fiona Lau, the brilliant mind behind Fiona Lau Interiors in California, paints a vivid picture of bespoke residential design, catering to spaces ranging from 2,000 to 20,000 square feet.

“I do see this furniture brand is very delicate. So every pieces, they are all handmade with, with heart, with, with the very delicate thinking and consideration to make these beautiful pieces,” Lau remarks, expressing admiration for the brand’s craftsmanship and unique character.

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Jodie Tyson, the creative force behind Jodi’s Inspiration, an esteemed interior design studio in Las Vegas, Nevada, shares insights into her diverse design journey that spans across the United States and Canada.

Expressing admiration for a furniture line, Tyson enthuses, “I love this line. It’s been in my wheelhouse for a number of years. They’re just stunning. The workmanship is quality and beautiful. I’m very impressed with the company.”

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Isabel Sá Nogueira, the visionary behind Isabel Sá Nogueira Interiors (@isabelsanogueira), shares her enthralling journey in the realm of interior design, spotlighting her projects in Lisbon and Porto that encapsulate an essence of timeless beauty and meticulous attention to detail.

In admiration of the craftsmanship and attention to detail on Covet Group, she reflects, “I find everything fascinating. I think they really manage to go into all the details. From woodworking, to brass, to all aspects. And they manage to do extraordinary things.” Isabel Sá Nogueira’s narrative offers a glimpse into her design ethos, weaving together historical inspiration and meticulous detailing to create spaces that evoke elegance and timeless allure.

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“I actually want to combine service and a high degree of originality and individuality. For me, every project is a kind of psychological adaptation to specific tasks. This means that my work – adapted to the people – represents a high degree of diversity.” Her fervor for design resonates with freedom, independence, and the joy of creativity, making her deeply enamored with her craft. “Oh yes, I’m crazy about my work and like to combine it with freedom, independence, and the joy of creativity.” Elke Altenberger’s philosophy centers on enabling clients to embrace their individuality, fostering a unique lifestyle and cultural experience. “We live in a time in which each of my customers should live their own standards of individuality and thus be able to take advantage of the opportunity for a special joie de vivre and culture. My job is to support that.”

To stay abreast of evolving trends, Elke Altenberger immerses herself in design globally, attending trade fairs, exhibitions, and engaging in extensive communication within her segment, drawing inspiration from the distinct personalities of her clientele. “Mostly Paris, Milan, and London. But Vienna – my hometown – also has more and more to offer – especially in architecture and fashion.” Her creative process is deeply rooted in a family heritage intertwined with culture, art, furnishings, and architecture, influenced by performing arts, music, and architectural dynamics, while embracing sustainable trends. “It is the eternal confrontation with progress and technical development. I just insist on never closing myself to it.”

Embracing progress and technical advancements is pivotal to Elke Altenberger’s vision. Her commitment to quality drives a consistent implementation of projects with style accuracy and dynamics, where she thrives at her best. “That’s when I’m at my best.” Elke Altenberger’s distinctive accomplishment lies in introducing originality into projects, pushing boundaries, and creating stylistic contrasts that breathe life into her designs.

“Honestly – my next project is always my favorite. Every project has its special dependencies and for me also its special human facets.” Elke Altenberger’s design journey exemplifies a commitment to diversity, individuality, and an unyielding dedication to pushing the boundaries of creativity, crafting unique experiences tailored to each project’s distinct essence.

For Jonida Puka, the founder of House of Aida, creativity is the driving force that has set them apart. “The creativity spirit made us think out of the box and try to give the market something new that’s not offered,” she explains. The result? They offer clients a turnkey solution, seamlessly blending architecture and interior design to create unique and captivating spaces. It’s this seamless fusion of design and architecture that sets House of Aida apart, giving their interiors a distinctive shape and character.

But it’s not just about aesthetics. The team at House of Aida understands the value of client relationships. “We connect so much with the client, and this has given us big, nice results with them,” Jonida says. The genuine connection they forge with their clients is the foundation of their success. The results speak for themselves. “We are finishing now one project which we are very proud of, and I believe it’s going to be one of the best projects in that area,” Jonida shares. This project, like many others, is adorned with pieces from Boca do Lobo, which adds an extra layer of uniqueness and luxury to their designs. “We can’t wait to see the results. I think it’s going to be awesome,” she adds.

Their approach to design is holistic and client-centric. Diana Muschei, another key figure at House of Aida, explains their process: “The first step is client meetings, and then we do the presentations, some concept designs, ideas, and we prepare a mood board, which is very important for them.” From there, they move on to 3D renders and offer clients a full turnkey service, taking care of everything from logistics to support even after the project is completed.

However, what truly sets House of Aida apart is their commitment to quality and sustainability. Jonida emphasizes, “We are very picky in our finishes and furniture and all this stuff. That’s important.” They believe in sustainable design by using the right materials and implementing smart technologies for homes, focusing on creating not just beautiful, but also responsible and efficient spaces. Diana echoes Jonida’s sentiments, appreciating the uniqueness that Boca do Lobo brings to their projects. “With your unique pieces, we are happy to impress our clients as well,” she says. Their recent visit to Boca do Lobo’s manufacturing facility provided them with an invaluable opportunity to witness the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into each piece. “It gives more value to the product itself,” Diana notes.

From metal factories to handmade items, House of Aida appreciates the dedication and meticulousness that goes into crafting every piece. Their passion for quality, creativity, and sustainability is what drives them forward, and it’s this passion that makes them an influential force in the design world. House of Aida is more than a design studio; it’s a family, a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and a shared vision for a better, more beautiful world.

“I’m coming from Spain. Actually, my company is based in Qatar. I am 15 years in Qatar now, and I have an interior design company there,” Alicia Pérez shares, introducing her roots and current endeavors in the vibrant world of Qatari design. Luna Design’s hallmark lies in their dedication to customizing each project, ensuring a distinctive touch for every client. “We give the client something that has not been done in another project,” Pérez emphasizes, highlighting their commitment to originality. “When I’m starting a project, I sit with my client and I’m trying to understand what is in his mind,” Alicia Pérez explains. This initial connection forms the cornerstone of her process, ensuring that every project resonates deeply with the client’s desires and personality.

Amidst clients’ inquiries about trends, Alicia Pérez urges a focus on personal preferences. “Forget a little bit about the trends,” she advises. “The space that we are going to create is going to be for you.” Her visit to Covet Group exceeded expectations, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship behind the glamorous designs showcased in magazines. Alicia Pérez particularly admired the handcrafted brass work, seeing the immense value in understanding and communicating the intricate processes to her clients.

“Especially the hammer in the brass and I never imagined how it was,” Alicia Pérez reflects on the eye-opening experience of witnessing skilled artisans tirelessly crafting each piece. When asked about her favorite designs within Covet Group, Alicia Pérez acknowledges Boca do Lobo‘s bold and captivating designs. “I think many of the designs already, they are very attractive from the beginning,” she notes, appreciating the distinctiveness of their creations.

For Alicia Pérez, travel serves as a wellspring of inspiration. “If I travel, I get a lot of inspiration from the places that I go,” she shares, attributing her diverse design influences to her love for exploring new cultures and landscapes. Currently working on a hotel design, Pérez notices a striking resemblance between her project’s aesthetics and the latest offerings from Covet Group. This alignment signifies the synergy between inspiration drawn from diverse sources and the essence captured in design. As Alicia Pérez continues to redefine luxury and individuality in Qatar’s design realm, Luna Design stands as a testament to personalized, meaningful spaces that echo the clients’ desires and personalities.

The Roy Design story dates back to 1880 when it was initiated by Taoudi’s great-grandfather. Over the generations, the company has evolved, initially rooted in metals but subsequently diversifying its portfolio into various sectors, including land development, construction, and agriculture. Taoudi proudly emphasizes that Roy Design for luxury home furniture is their latest venture, marking the fourth generation’s commitment to upholding and evolving the family legacy.

“For us, Covet Group was essential to properly see and touch the materials and fabrics,” Taoudi explains. The company’s participation with Covet Group allows them to intimately understand the products, ensuring an enhanced knowledge of the intricate details that will be presented in their showrooms. Moreover, it fosters valuable relationships with partners in marketing, sales, and design, offering collaborative opportunities for future projects. Taoudi’s visit to the manufacturers left a profound impact. Exploring the workshops revealed a deeply personal touch in crafting each product. “We can feel the love of what they are doing because it’s very manual,” Taoudi expresses, underscoring the artisans’ dedication. The uniqueness of every item further emphasizes the artisanal craftsmanship that goes into each creation.

Reflecting on his personal highlight, Taoudi singles out the Imperfectio Sofa. Crafted through a meticulous hammering process, each sofa exudes distinctiveness, embodying the essence and mood of the craftsman. “It’s a very unique piece of art,” he affirms, noting its exceptional craftsmanship.

Discussing the unique position of Moroccan culture, Taoudi highlights the diversity of projects in the country, resonating with the fusion of Arabian-European cultural influences. This eclectic blend finds synergy with the distinctive products of Boca do Lobo, aligning seamlessly with Morocco’s cultural tapestry.

The future for Roy Design Sarl looks promising as they gear up for the inauguration of two new showrooms. “We are working on two new projects – one in Casablanca and one in Fez,” Taoudi reveals. Casablanca, being the economic hub, and Fez, the cultural capital, hold immense potential as vibrant markets for Boca do Lobo‘s offerings.

Roy Design Sarl stands as a testament to tradition, craftsmanship, and a forward-looking approach to luxury home furniture. With a legacy spanning over a century, their commitment to excellence and innovation continues to shape the narrative of opulence in home design.

In the world of interior and architecture design, the creative minds behind a project are often what truly define its uniqueness and distinction. For 1508 Interior Design, that creative force is embodied in the talents of Alessandra Melchiorri and Joy Lagmay-Jay, two remarkable individuals who have dedicated their careers to crafting exceptional spaces that are, in a word, timeless. Alessandra Melchiorri, a senior designer with close to five years of experience at 1508 Interior Design, and Joy Lagmay-Jay, a design associate with nearly six years in the company, are the visionary designers at the heart of this London-based design studio. With a strong commitment to delivering unique, high-quality spaces, their passion for design knows no bounds.

1508 Interior Design’s portfolio is a testament to their flexibility and adaptability. “We do have our own style, but we’re really flexible depending on the client, both resident or hospitality,” Alessandra explains. This adaptability is what sets them apart, enabling them to create diverse spaces that resonate with the individuality of each project. The process at 1508 Interior Design is an art form in itself. “We make them with their client,” says Alessandra. “But there are a few questionnaires to get an idea of what they want. Then we go through different phases, which are the Rebo phases.” Joy elaborates, “We basically go from concept to what they expect, if there are any brands that they want us to include they can send us mood images, and then from there, we build a concept and then we relay with them to develop each process for each stage.”

But what truly sets 1508 Interior Design apart is their relentless pursuit of excellence and their deep appreciation for craftsmanship. During a recent visit to Portugal, they were captivated by the artisanal skills and the dedication to craft. “The craftsmanship between them and the expertise for each piece that brings together each item. Each, I guess, person is putting their version into the metalworks and then into the timber and then the finishing. There are loads of different components to create one piece,” Joy marvels. Alessandra adds, “It’s quite unique. It’s a quite unique source of things. It’s nice to see them.”

The stories behind the designs are equally important to Alessandra and Joy. “It’s always easier to sell a product to a client when there is a story,” Joy notes. Their passion for heritage and handcrafted details finds a perfect match in the meticulously crafted pieces from Boca do Lobo, which they have integrated into their projects with a keen sense of purpose. When it comes to their design preferences, their love for heritage and handcrafted details is unwavering. “I love it. I mean, I love it. It’s just visual. I love it. But yeah, the history behind it is,” Alessandra emphasizes.

Their approach to design is as diverse as their portfolio. “I think it depends on the project because obviously the project is and the locality of where the project is helps drive where the concept can go,” Joy explains. “It’s less about the trend, it’s more about their look,” Alessandra adds. As for the future, 1508 Interior Design is branching into the realm of hospitality projects. “I mean, we’ve got such a variation of projects now. We’re like hospitality projects we’re delving into now,” Joy reveals.

Their commitment to creating spaces that resonate with their clients and the environments they inhabit is unwavering. “It’s most of the times about obviously client environments, but the heritage of where the place is and to create a sense of place in the project that is not just about your requirements, but also where,” Alessandra says. With a keen focus on the client’s needs and the unique character of each project, Alessandra Melchiorri and Joy Lagmay-Jay continue to be the driving force behind 1508 Interior Design’s exceptional creations. Their passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence shine through in every design, making 1508 Interior Design a trailblazer in the world of interior and architecture.

Kabouni Engineering serves as a reseller for furniture, proudly representing multiple European brands. What sets them apart, however, is their dedication to innovative lighting solutions, including architectural and decorative lighting. This distinctive blend of offerings has made them stand out within the industry.

Salah Kabouni introduces the company saying that: “Actually, we are working as a reseller for furniture. We are representing several European brands. We are doing also lighting solutions, architectural lighting and decorative lighting. So this is what makes us different from other companies.“

The interview delves into the unexpected aspects of their journey. Salah Kabouni shares, “It was a very nice and impressive experience because we have seen most of the items, how they did and the handmade items, they are amazing, especially the metal factory. It was something that we didn’t expect that every piece is done separately and it’s really unique.” In a world of mass production, the hands-on approach to creating each piece struck a chord with Salah and his team. “We were expecting to see more machines and more production lines, something like this. We didn’t expect to see all this done by hand.“

The conversation shifts to specific products and the impact they’ve had. Salah Kabouni mentions, “Yes, of course, a lot of products. For example, the monochrome console, it was something very nice. The blue color was… I’ve seen the product before, but I didn’t see it in blue color, so it was really amazing for me. Of course, all other products are looking amazing, but I’ve seen most of them before. But for me, this one was unique.”

Salah Kabouni also highlights some of the successful projects they’ve completed in collaboration with their European partners. “For example, a private villa we finished a couple of months ago, and now we have almost finished an apartment in Beirut. We have used a lot of products in the salon area, in the bathroom, also some mirrors. It was an amazing one. We have also used the entrance, in the entrance lobby,(…) it was looking very nice, and we have just delivered the project, and the client is so happy and everything is good.”

The interview provides valuable insights into their selection process and the partnership’s foundation. Salah Kabouni reflects, “We have made the selection based on the design which we have prepared. Kabouni Engineering’s journey is a testament to the marriage of European elegance and Middle Eastern innovation, creating distinctive and remarkable design experiences.

“Covid happened, so actually, people moved from Chicago to more warm areas like Florida,” Natasha Chatkin reveals, shedding light on the shift. With Chicago’s colder climate, residents sought respite in the sunnier haven of Florida, leading to a surge in designing second residences in the sunshine state, marking significant growth for her business.

Visiting the Covet Group left a lasting impression on Natasha Chatkin. “When I saw from scratch, from the drawings, how you created this masterpiece, I would say each of them, masterpiece, how much craftsmanship involved and what the quality is that,” she expresses, in awe of the meticulous craft behind each piece. She reminisces discovering Covet Group at the Milano Furniture Show, specifically recalling the ‘Safe Millionaire’ as a standout, equating it to the epitome of handcrafted perfection, akin to a Rolls-Royce.

Reflecting on her experiences visiting Italy and the Covet Group showroom, Natasha Chatkin resonates deeply with the unique aspects of craftsmanship, especially in the mirrors. “It’s created so differently. That’s what created uniqueness of your company,” she observes, acknowledging the impactful role of details like poolcast that add an exceptional touch to designs.

Inspiration for her projects often springs from diverse sources. “Looking at some catalogs and especially like today I was observing that puzzle piece,” Natasha Chatkin notes, finding inspiration in the intricate details and color combinations in designs. She attributes her inspiration to observing various showrooms, manufacturer visits, and the curated interiors at Covet Group’s showroom.

Currently working on significant projects, Natasha Chatkin foresees collaborations for distinctive pieces like pianos, safes, and pool tables through Covet Group. Her attention to detail, ignited by discoveries like a small spider detail on a piece’s leg, fuels her enthusiasm to offer clients unique, bespoke designs. As Natasha Chatkin continues to redefine residential spaces, her journey stands as a testament to an unwavering pursuit of perfection and innovation, ensuring each design echoes the distinct essence of its inhabitants.

Designer Interview With Merna Sami

In this designer interview, Merna Sami claims that her love of design began long ago when she was a young girl. She has always enjoyed using color and admiring vibrant artwork. She added that she enjoyed following her uncle around to see what he was up to in the world of design. She had a strong preference for the department of interior and furniture design when she first started college.

“In my childhood, I loved looking at pictures filled with colors, playing with colors and choosing them. I loved to look at paintings drawn in distinctive colors.”

She recently created this stunning living room with the AGATHA RUG. We were honored to have her use Rug’Society products in her designs. The charming AGATHA RUG, with its abstract pattern, adds some fluidity to this warm and sophisticated contemporary living room. Merna Sami specifically created this space with the Agatha rug in mind.

Since graduating, Merna Sami has had the dream of starting her own business, but she feels she must first gain more experience before moving forward with this. She has worked for numerous interior design firms in order to achieve this, where she gained teamwork skills, learned how to develop ideas, and more. She took internships at places like Engco and Elmasria, to name a couple. She claimed that over the course of this time, her drive and desire to create more independent projects only grew. We hope to see this dream come true in the near future.

“I love how the designers and architects think about creating a space in a wonderful and comfortable way for the user.”

One of her greatest challenges to date has been a client who demanded something novel that he had never seen before. It is not always easy to come up with something completely innovative. He liked all of her design suggestions, but he wasn’t persuaded, so Merna Sami had to create a mood board with a variety of suggestions that matched his preferences.

She even had to come up with a unique way to design furniture for this project in order to satisfy the client’s request for something he had never seen imitated before. She admitted that it was one of the hardest times she had to design a space.

Exclusive Designer Interview With Merna Sami From Cairo

Looking ahead, Merna Sami is currently designing the ground floor of a villa in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which will include a master bedroom with an outdoor garden and sitting area, a dining room for guests, a family hall, and a living room for guests. We are incredibly eager to follow this new project’s progress.

Merna Sami appreciates teamwork because it fosters creativity. The sharing of ideas and opinions increases the chances of creating the best design. When the team members are exceptional, imaginative, and have vast design knowledge, she particularly enjoys working in teams. All of the team members’ ideas are expanded as a result.

Her graduation “Sea Wonders Eco-lodge” project is what Merna Sami is most proud of. In the vicinity of the Valley of the Whales in the Egyptian governorate of Faiyum, there was an eco-lodge with a museum displaying prehistoric whale fossils.

The Valley of the Whales’ numerous fossilized remains of some of the earliest whale species led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2005. The Eco-lodge in this heritage site is the subject of this project. She was also recognized for this project at the 2019 Los Angeles “International Design Awards” Ceremony.

Although there are no set styles in Merna Sami’s projects, she tends to favor more opulent and contemporary interior designs. Although some styles, like classic, neoclassical, and contemporary, are demanded by clients, the majority of the demanded designs are in the luxury modern style. In terms of trends, she searches for what’s new in terms of colors, materials, and wall claddings, following the most recent designs in accordance with the needs and preferences of the client.

“There are some styles that are required by clients, such as classic, neoclassic, and contemporary, but most of the required designs are in luxury modern style.”

It can be challenging to maintain a signature style while showcasing the client’s needs and preferences. Merna Sami acknowledged that she frequently creates a mood board before beginning a project. She compiles images that reflect the client’s preferences along with ideas for how to expand and present the concept.

She developed an understanding of the client’s preferences for the interior design through discussion. She primarily works on the client’s concept, adding her own flair so that it reflects their preferences and ideas while having a fresh personality.

When given the option to prioritize either functionality or beauty, the interior designer chooses functionality. She takes care of the fundamental requirements and practical dimensions to ensure that the client is both functionally and aesthetically satisfied with the design.

She won’t consider the decorative additions, colors, engravings, or accessories until afterward. She explained to us that she adds aesthetic features to the scene, such as plants, antiques, artifacts, statues, and accessories that enhance its beauty, to ensure that the scene is rendered in an aesthetically pleasing manner.

Rugs are a crucial component of Merna Sami designs, especially in rooms with lots of space. It sets apart the furniture positioned above it with its distinctive colors and varied patterns. It is crucial for the majority of her designs to choose the right rug for each space because there are so many different shapes, patterns, and textures. This gives the room a unique appearance and a warm, cozy feeling.

“Rugs are an essential element in my designs. There are many different shapes, patterns and textures, and by choosing the right rug for each space gives the place a distinctive look with a warm and comfortable feeling”

During this designer interview, we questioned her about her favorite brands and items from the Home’Society collection. She emphasized the “ARDARA II Console” from BRABBU, the “OSLO RUG” from Rug’Society, and the “LAPIAZ” collection from Maison Valentina.

“They are so luxury and have a fancy look. I use them in inspirational mood boards of luxury modern interiors as suggestions for luxury furniture pieces in the design, meanwhile, there are many other beautiful pieces in your brands to be used in my mood boards, I just chose here my favorite ones.”