In Profile:
Hamilford Design

Name: Manuela Hamilford

Company: Hamilford Design

Position in Company: Founder

Website: hamilforddesign.com

Tell us a little about your background in design:

I have always had a passion for design and I thrive on the diversity and creativity of the industry. I was born in Vicenza, Italy and began working in New York for a prestigious bespoke Italian home furnishings company. After years in the field, I moved to London and started up my own interior design company, my Italian heritage and time in New York are a strong influence on my work. Hamilford Design cover all aspects of interior design, from conception to completion with projects spanning from listed residences in London and townhouses in New York, to prestigious country estates and commercial properties across Europe.

How would you describe your personal design style?

Contemporary, relaxed luxury. Our designs are always bespoke and tailored around client.

Where does your design inspiration come from?

I find inspiration everywhere, of course my travels but also reading a novel or enjoying food. I love attending trade shows and meeting with suppliers to see trends. Also, I often look around galleries and exhibitions to inspire me. I hold regular outings for my design team to help stimulate them too, which is always fun!

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?

More bespoke. Tranquil colour schemes based in nature, people want soft, lovable spaces which are inviting. We’re using lots of curves in both furniture and architecture- such as kidney shaped sofas and spiral staircases. Comfortable and usable approaches to living rooms and kitchens – there is much less emphasis on formal dining rooms and more on relaxed entertaining.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2024 and beyond.

Textures, balance, layering, shapes and the clients needs, stories and lifestyles.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?

Don’t follow trends

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?

The awards help inspire and motivate us. The unique judging system provides clout, being judged by a wide range of industry insiders and not a small panel. The awards help recognise excellence and a great way for the design community to grow and inspire each other.

What projects are you currently working on?

We’re crossing over into choice commercial projects, which has been an exciting experience. Residential design influences how we approach bars and restaurants – making them feel homely.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?

Westcott Lodge – we lovingly restored a listing building with historical significance to its former glory. It was a real labour of love, the clients were thrilled and we worked in their heritage alongside maintaining the integrity of the property.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?

Our pool house project was a great challenge. In the heart of theCotswolds- the client wanted ‘country file meets James Bond’ . We ended up installing a roof top swimming pool and whole entertainment system up there.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing?

My team.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?

We have lots of exciting projects coming up and I always love seeing my design team grow and thrive.