The annual Andrew Martin Interior Design Review features the works from the world’s top 100 interior designers of the year. Dubbed 'the Bible of interior design' it has become THE catalogue of design, illustrating social and political movements as well as cultural lifestyles over the last quarter of a century. [Source: Andrew Martin]
The Andrew Martin Interior Design Review has always been held close to Alex’s heart, as it is an honour in both a professional and personal sense to be recognised at an international level.
The design aficionados amoung us would note that this isn’t Alex’s first AMIDR feature, however, after the ups and downs of the past year, this attribution seems particularly exceptional and meaningful.
In celebration of the AMIDR’s 25th anniversary edition and on the eve of Alexandra Kidd Design’s 10-year anniversary in 2022, Alex opens up about what it means to be recognised as one of the world’s top 100 designers and reflects on just how far she has come.
Firstly, congratulations ALEX!
Thank you so much!
What does it mean FOR you to be selected as one of the Andrew Martin Interior Design Review’s Top 100 Designers IN 2021?
My goodness, well, after the life-changing events of the past couple of years, being selected this year just feels extra special. It’s a real testament to my team, our strength and how connected we have remained producing such beautiful work during these uncertain times.
It’s a lovely recognition that we are producing amazing homes, which wouldn’t be possible without our extraordinarily passionate team and wonderful clients who allow us to challenge them and be creative.
Why do you feel your designs continue to resonate on a global scale, YEAR AFTER YEAR?
I like to think our designs our timeless and that we truly understand the essence of how people wish to live in their spaces; what they find comfortable and beautiful. I don’t think that goes in and out of fashion.
Classic design, and well considered design, always has a place in the world. I like to think our interiors are warm and inviting and they provoke an emotional response from our clients, and it really does translate.
Our studio will be celebrating our tenth anniversary next year, and it reminds me how far we have come, yet what design instincts have stayed true. I love tapping into that emotional connection when someone walks into a space, that ‘I love the feeling of this room’ response. I believe that kind of emotion you get walking into a space will always resonate no matter how many years pass.
How has YOUR STUDIO’S approach to design evolved SINCE STARTING AKD ALL THOSE YEARS AGO?
Over the past decade we have fined tuned our skills and processes, but I think one of the core things I love about our team is how open we have become to see every project as a new opportunity. Our team is cohesive, energized and passionate, and over the years we have grown together, supporting each other to have the confidence to be challenged by each project.
We are driven to achieve the best outcome, not only creatively in our designs but emotionally for our clients. We don’t confine our designs, but rather we embrace each brief with fresh eyes, which is a strong characteristic to have.
Who of the Top 100 Designers are you excited to share the stage with? And who will you be keeping a design-eye on IN THE COMING YEAR?
Last year’s AMIDR winner Ben Wu is always interesting to watch. Affectionately labelled ‘Modern Orientalism’ his beautiful world of contrasts is always pleasing to the eye – vertical and horizontal planes, colour and textures, modern taste and traditional feelings.
I’m extremely passionate about Australian design. I believe the Australian aesthetic is so rich and beautiful. I have many colleagues around Australia producing gorgeous work so I’m always so excited to see any of my contemporaries from home being highlighted and celebrated on a global scale.
On the eve of AKD’s 10-year anniversary in 2022, if you could tell your younger design self any words of wisdom or encouragement, what COMES TO MIND?
Honestly, the first thought that came to mind was ‘Wear the hot pants!’. If I could go back 20 years that’s what I’d tell myself! HA HA
But on a more professional note, I would definitely encourage myself to just keep going. I’ve had moments throughout my career where doubts or anxieties creep in, but it’s so important to keep the faith and to just keep going.
It’s such an extraordinary thing that I get to do all day every day and I’m always extremely touched that people let us into their homes and give us they level of creative control that they do. I certainly never take it lightly and it’s a real honour to be allowed to do what I do and to have it be received so well. I am eternally grateful and humbled by that.