In Profile: Cécile Morel Architecture d’Intérieur

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

One piece of design advice would be to always put the user’s needs first. To ensure that every design choice is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the overall experience in a lasting way.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?

International design and architecture awards are essential because they promote excellence and innovation, raise the profile of designers and stimulate competition that pushes the entire industry towards higher standards of creativity and quality.

What projects are you currently working on?

– “Ladies First” a clinic for women in Geneva, Switzerland
– A lounge and restaurant area for passengers and crew of Dassault Private Aviation at Geneva international airport in Switzerland – A wellness centre in Geneva, Switzerland
– Several pastry and chocolate shops in Switzerland
– A luxury handbag boutique in Geneva, Switzerland
– A chalet in Crans-Montana, Switzerland
And even more top-of-the-range private residences, flats and villas In Paris (France), Lisbon (Portugal) and Switzerland

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

Generally speaking, the most difficult projects are those involving fine jeweler and hospitality, because of all the regulations that have to be complied with. Switzerland is a highly regulated country, and Geneva in particular.

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

In my design projects, certain tools are indispensable. For commercial spaces, I immerse myself in the DNA of the brand, while for residential spaces, an in-depth understanding of the customer’s needs is essential. 2D and 3D drawing software make it easy to create plans and visualisations. Material samples are crucial for choosing textures and colours so that each element matches perfectly. Pinterest is also a valuable tool for inspiration and sharing ideas.

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

1. Integrating artificial intelligence: learning to use artificial intelligence to innovate in the design of my projects and offer a new service to my customers.
2. Ecological research: find out about the latest ecological technological innovations in construction so that I can incorporate them into my practices.

3. International network: taking part in international events to expand my professional network and keep abreast of new trends in design.
4. Transfer of knowledge: since 2018 I have been a member of the jury of an interior design school for the professional certification of Global Design Interior Architect. There are always several interns at the agency. I’d like to give occasional talks in architecture schools on specific themes related to our profession.

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession? a lithograph by Picasso
Your favourite holiday destination? by the mediterranean sea, on the Côte d’Azur in the south of France

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Hotel : Lily of the Valley – St Tropez – France
Restaurant: Izumi (Japanese fusion) at the Four Seasons Hôtel des Bergues in Geneva – Switzerland Bar: The Joséphine bar at the Hôtel Lutetia

Your favourite book, film & song?
Book: “Twenty-four hours in the life of a woman” by Stephan Sweig Film: “In the mood for love” de Wong Kar-Wai
Song: all ABBA songs

Your favourite food and drink? Lobster and champagne
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? with my family and friends in the countryside

If you weren’t a designer, what would you be? lawyer
Anything else interesting? I like ballet and drawing