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In Profile:
by Accanto Interiors

In Profile:

by Accanto Interiors

Shortlisted: Restaurant - Europe Award

The International Hotel & Property Awards 2026

Name: Zuzana Phillips & Lina Clark
Company Name: Accanto Interiors
Position Within Company: Creative Director
Website: https://www.accantointeriors.com

Tell us a little about your background in design:
My journey into design was not entirely traditional. I believe I became a designer long before I had the formal language for it. I grew up in Slovakia in a small town surrounded by handmade craftsmanship – carved wooden doors, embroidered textiles, lace curtains, and objects created with care and meaning. Those early experiences shaped how I see beauty, detail, and the emotional power of space.
Before founding Accanto Interiors, I worked in the luxury fashion retail industry. I became one of the youngest senior managers for Pandora in Slovakia and later helped launch the Karen Millen flagship store in Prague. Those experiences taught me about brand building, customer experience, and the importance of creating environments that connect emotionally with people.
After moving to the UK, I founded Accanto Interiors, which has since grown into Accanto Group – a multidisciplinary design, construction, and branding collective. Today we work internationally on luxury residential and commercial projects across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East, combining interior architecture, development strategy, and bespoke design.

How would you describe your personal design style?:
I would describe my design style as warm, sculptural, and deeply intentional. I love spaces that feel layered and tactile, where modern architectural clarity is balanced with craftsmanship and material richness.
For me, design should never feel cold or purely decorative. I want people to walk into a space and feel something – comfort, curiosity, calm, or inspiration. I often combine contemporary forms with subtle references to heritage, whether through texture, pattern, or artisanal detail. It’s about creating environments that feel timeless rather than trend-driven.

Where does your design inspiration come from?:
My inspiration comes from many places, but most deeply from craftsmanship and human stories. I’m fascinated by how objects are made and the cultural meaning behind them.
Growing up in Slovakia, I watched family members create traditional textiles and costumes where every stitch carried symbolism. That sense of intention still influences my work today.
I’m also inspired by travel, architecture, antique markets, art, and nature. Visiting historic buildings or discovering vintage furniture pieces often sparks ideas for new concepts or bespoke designs.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?:
I believe design is moving toward a more holistic and intelligent approach. Clients today want more than just aesthetics; they want spaces that are meaningful, sustainable, and emotionally engaging.
Technology is also playing a huge role. AI tools, digital visualization, and immersive design processes are transforming how we conceptualize and present ideas. However, I believe the future lies in balancing technological innovation with human craftsmanship.
People are increasingly drawn to authenticity. Materials, story, and craftsmanship are becoming more important again, which is something I personally find very exciting.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future. :
Human experience – design must prioritize how people feel in a space.
Sustainability and longevity – materials and design decisions should stand the test of time.
Technology integration – using digital tools to improve design processes and functionality.
Craftsmanship and authenticity – celebrating handmade elements and heritage techniques.
Flexibility and adaptability – spaces must evolve with changing lifestyles and work patterns.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be?:
Design with intention, not trends. Trends come and go, but spaces that are thoughtfully designed with purpose, craftsmanship, and emotional awareness will always feel relevant.

TK Kitchen Chiswick by Accanto Interiors 2
Accanto Interiors
Accanto Interiors

How important are The International Hotel & Property Awards?:
The International Hotel & Property Awards are highly respected within the global design industry. They celebrate creativity, innovation, and excellence across hospitality and property design.
For studios like ours, they provide a valuable platform to showcase projects internationally and to connect with other designers, architects, and industry leaders who are pushing the boundaries of design.

What projects are you currently working on?:
At the moment we are working on a diverse range of international projects. These include luxury commercial interiors in London such as wellness clinics and hospitality spaces, as well as private residential developments.
Within Accanto Group we are also expanding our integrated design-build approach through Accanto Construction, Accanto Furniture, and Accanto Branding, allowing us to deliver projects from concept through to completion with a cohesive vision.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?:
One of my favourite projects was designing a wellness clinic in Mayfair. The project allowed us to combine architectural precision with emotional design.
We worked extensively with natural materials, polished stone, and bespoke joinery to create an environment that feels calming, sophisticated, and discreet. Wellness spaces are fascinating because they must support both functionality and atmosphere, and it was incredibly rewarding to see the final result come to life.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?:
Large commercial projects can be particularly challenging because they involve multiple stakeholders, complex logistics, and tight timelines.
One project involved coordinating design, branding, construction, and operational requirements simultaneously. While demanding, those experiences are also the most rewarding because they push you to think strategically and creatively at the same time.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing? E.g. Lighting companies, furniture companies:
Lighting is absolutely essential in design. Without the right lighting, even the most beautiful space will not feel complete.
I also rely heavily on bespoke joinery specialists, high-quality stone suppliers, and skilled craftsmen. For furniture and materials, I value brands and manufacturers that prioritize quality, innovation, and sustainability.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months? : The next year is an exciting period for Accanto Group. We are focused on expanding internationally, particularly within Europe and the Middle East.
We are also developing a digital client portal and design app to improve how clients interact with our projects. In addition, I’m working on a television concept that explores the world of international interior design and property development, highlighting the creative and entrepreneurial side of the industry.

Your most treasured possession?:
A collection of handmade textiles and objects from Slovakia that remind me of my heritage and where my creative journey began.

Interior Designer: Zuzana Phillips

Photography: Stevie Campbell

Accanto Interiors has been shortlisted for Restaurant – Europe Award in The International Hotel & Property Awards 2026.

Accanto Interiors
Accanto Interiors

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