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D For Design

Designer in Profile: Sandra Aiken Creative Director of D For Design

Name: Sandra Aiken
Company:
D for Design
Position within company:
Creative Director
Website:
www.dfordesign.co.nz

Tell us a little about your background in design (education,
experience, etc)

I have a Bachelor degree in design from Academy Charles Montaigne Amsterdam, now known as AMFI, part of Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences. One of the many highlights of my career is working on the film Lord of the Rings as a prop creator and I was the in-house interior design consultant for Corso De Fiori (Wellington, NZ) , an upmarket luxury interior design store. This is where I further developed my interior design skills. I have lived and worked in South Africa and travelling the world has really informed the way I approach a project and inspires my designs.

How would you describe your personal design style?
I have an admiration for many design styles and my home could best be described as Lodge/Coastal. It’s often referred to by visitors as artful, warm and inviting.

Where does your design inspiration come from?
Living in New Zealand one can’t help but be inspired by the beautiful and varied landscape. I also draw inspiration from my world travels, European heritage, architecture, art and other designers.

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

The throw away culture of inexpensive furniture that isn’t particularly well made is on the decline. Sustainability, longevity of products, ethical supply chains are things that will determine the direction of design.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in
2020 and beyond.

1.Creating spaces for a balanced lifestyle, designing with emotional and physical wellbeing in mind. Wellness rooms, spa bathrooms, yoga/pilates studio, home gyms.
2.The nature and function of our homes is being changed by the pandemic. Homes with open plan spaces are less desirable and the need for zoned private spaces is required.
3.Holistic sustainable design (materials, design longevity, adaptability)
4.Inclusion and reflection of diversity in design, appreciating the expression of self through design.
5.Biophilic design to create restorative and connective spaces.

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

Don’t fall victim to fads and trends, create your own unique home by choosing things you like, don’t be afraid of what others think. A home is a reflection of yourself. It would be boring if everybody had the same style home. If you can’t do it yourself, get help from an interior designer.

How important are The International Design & Architecture
Awards?

The awards bring recognition and awareness to inspirational design and creates global connection in this field. It celebrates diversity and gives needed exposure to the wide variety of cultures where excellence in design resides.

What projects are you currently working on?
Currently I’m working on concept designs, decorating projects and home renovations. I also have a new build project that is due to start very soon.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?
That’s a difficult one for me to answer because I love everything I’ve done. When I revisit a project it still brings me a sense of delight. If I had to narrow it down to one project it would be the lodge style home in the Wairarapa because the clients were wonderful to work with, we had a fantastic rapport and mutual respect.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?
The Wellington apartment was challenging because the building had some quirky details that I had to work around to create a cohesive flow. Even getting some of the larger pieces of furniture delivered was challenging, the lifts couldn’t accommodate the furniture and had to be carried upstairs, unfortunately some things were damaged along the way.

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

NZ furniture makers, who create my bespoke designs.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
My goal is to develop D for Design into a lifestyle brand and expand the business into a collaborative design studio. For a small country, New Zealand has a large pool of talented creative people.

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


Your most treasured possession?

The art my husband has created over the years. He recently made me some earrings for my birthday.

Your favourite holiday destination?
Pacific Islands particularly Samoa. European countries and world cities to recharge my creative spark.

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Hotel: The Andaz Hotel, Amsterdam. Restaurant: Logan Brown, Wellington Bar: The Hawthorn Lounge, Wellington

Your favourite book, film & song?
Book: The Kite Flyer. Film: Lord of the Rings (which I worked on) Song: Not Given Lightly, by Chris Knox

Your favourite food and drink?
Food: Cheese, NZ has some great locally produced Cheeses. Drink: Wine, Pinot Noir from Central Otago and Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough.

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Catching up with friends over a long lunch, going for a scenic walk along our beautiful coast.

If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
I can’t imagine doing anything else!



Sponsors
  • Sylka Carpets
  • Joseph Giles

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