Diana Bastone Designs has been shortlisted for the Interior Design Scheme – Canada Award in The International Design and Architecture Awards 2022. Read more on the Principal Designer & Owner, Diana Bastone, below:

Name: Diana Bastone
Company: Diana Bastone Designs
Position within Company: Principal designer and owner
Website: www.dianabastonedesigns.com

Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I received my education at Ryerson University, which is a highly regarded interior design school in Canada. I graduated in 1989 and have worked in the interior design industry since. Initially, I worked at a few interior design firms before launching my own business.

How would you describe your personal design style?
My personal style is understated yet sophisticated. I like to combine contemporary design with classic styles using architectural details and different textures to create interest.

Where does your design inspiration come from?
I look to fashion for inspiration and the way in which fabric textures and colours are combined.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I feel design is moving towards a more pared down look. Sophisticated yet comfortable for everyday life.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2022 and beyond.
– Purchase with quality (cheap furniture ends up in our landfills).
– Our home environment has a profound impact on our well-being, if we surround ourselves with beautiful spaces but still practical for everyday living our home can bring us joy in our lives.
– Creating spaces that are multi-functional has been an obvious realization since spending a great deal of time in our homes due to the pandemic. Therefore, our homes should be a place where we can work, relax, play and exercise, no matter the size.
– If we all take part in using sustainable products in our homes, collectively we are helping our world not only today but for future generations.
– Buy local, help support the small businesses.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Create an environment that is calming to you. There is so much noise in this world it’s nice to come home to a place that resonates with your well-being.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards? This award is a huge accomplishment!  Its an honour to be part of this group of highly regarded designers from around the world.

What projects are you currently working on?
Currently, I’m working on a new build for a young family. The vibe is casual and pet friendly in mind. We are also working on a mid-century modern home; we are loving the calm and natural look of this interior. These are just a couple of standout projects.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?
My favourite project that I enjoyed the most so far is the project that has been recognized in this competition. My clients from the start embraced the design process, they understood the concept of having quality pieces. With that in mind, because they owned some quality furniture from a previous home, we were able to reupholster and reuse this furniture to give it a new life. The mix of custom and repurposed furniture was a gratifying process. They valued our expertise; with our design process, we were able to determine their style and how they best wanted to live in their home.  

Which products/services could you not live without when designing?
I cannot live without the Houzz program. This program serves the design community so well. In my business, I use this program for marketing, accounting, and presentation capabilities.  Everything is uploaded on the program for all team members to see. All aspects of each project are shared online, we can see the design process and work towards a final product for each project.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
My main goal for the next 12 months but also throughout my career until I retire, is mentoring those whom I hire. With over 30 years in this industry, I have seen just about everything. With this experience, I want to share this wealth of knowledge. I want to give reasons as to why things are done a certain way, having them wear all hats so they become even better designers by being well rounded.

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:

Your most treasured possession?
My phone! It is like a walking computer. Whether I am gathering beautiful photos in my travels for inspiration, communicating with clients and team members, or simply looking at fellow designers and being inspired by their beautiful work. Not to mention that my phone book of contacts, calendar and client files are all in the palm of my hand.

Your favourite holiday destination?
My favourite holiday destination is anywhere in Europe. I love to be immersed in the culture of the place we visit. Travel gives a different perspective in design but also in life. 

Your favourite book, film & song?
Favourite book- ‘The High 5 Habit’ by Mel Robbins she is so inspirational; favourite movie- ‘Life is Beautiful’, the struggle of war and shielding a child from the devastation of war, holding on to what is good in our humanity; My favourite song but also my anthem- ‘Miss Independent’ by Neo. Being a female business owner there is a certain confidence associated with having “your own thing”.

Your favourite food and drink?
Favourite food would be anything dessert – they all appeal to me. A favourite drink would be a nice glass of white wine. I’ve had the pleasure of tasting too many great-tasting white wines that it’s a challenge to name one brand.

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Going for a run. I find it quite relaxing just running at my own pace and my own beat- listening to music and finding different paths to run through- it’s an adventure!

If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
This is a difficult question. Design has provided me with so many opportunities to be creative but also interact with many people. I am in my element when I am designing.  Design provides a creative outlet but there is also the business side which we cannot forget. It comes with its challenges but gratifying to know you are getting paid to do what you absolutely love. But if I had to choose a different career path it would be anything to do with animals.

Anything else interesting? 
I am obsessed with candles! When I am in my office there is always a burning candle, anyone who knows me is aware of this fact and I am often gifted beautiful candles. When I light a candle, it often reminds me of the person who gave it to me.

Diana Bastone Designs

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