Birch House have been shortlisted for multiple categories in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2022. Read more about Creative Director, Dasha Popova, below:

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Name: Dasha Popova

Company: Birch House

Position within company: Creative Director

Website: https://www.birch.house/

Tell us a little about your background in design:

I was a lawyer at an international law firm in my ‘previous life’ – it was the refurbishment of my first and current home that inspired me to switch careers and pursue my passion for interior design. It was the best thing I could have ever done for myself professionally. My design journey started with me gaining a Diploma in Interior Design from the prestigious KLC School of Design in 2015. Then I spent a few years working as designer at an award-winning architectural interior design practice with an international client base. During my time there I honed my skills working on a range of inspirational projects on London’s most prominent streets and in enviable locations across the world. In 2018, I took the plunge and established Birch House. Since then Birch House has worked on a number of projects that keep increasing in size, budget and respectively quality that we are able to deliver for our clients.

How would you describe your personal design style?

As a design studio, our philosophy goes beyond a signature ‘house style’. It is always about allowing each project to be a reflection of its context and its unique client’s narrative, making no two projects the same. We pride ourselves in creating dynamic and layered environments that stand the test of time. Personally, I tend to gravitate to a contemporary classic style in my own home, but my taste seems to transform with every project. One thing that is a constant is my attention to detail.

Where does your design inspiration come from?

Anywhere that I have been and anything that I have seen, touched or experienced. Also, visiting the major international design fairs is a vital source of inspiration for my work.

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

Functional, eclectic and layered interiors with a sense of individuality. The pandemic showed us that our homes are the main settings of our lives: where we sleep, work, and socialise. Everything we are surrounded by must serve some sort of purpose.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2022 and beyond.

Quality. Sustainability. Craftsmanship. Positivity. Collaboration.

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

The client is not always right. Design spaces that reflect your client’s lifestyle and personality, but don’t be afraid to push them outside of their comfort zone – they might just discover that they absolutely love something that they couldn’t have previously imagined being able to live with.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?

Very! When I shared the amazing news with my family that Birch House has been shortlisted in the IDA Awards, and they asked me to explain what it would mean to win – I told them that winning this award would be like winning an Oscar.

What projects are you currently working on?

Two key projects that we are currently working on are a complete refurbishment of a mews house in Knightsbridge and a house for a young family, also in Knightsbridge. We prefer to focus on only a few projects at any given time, so that we can offer a highly personalised design service to each of our clients.  

What was your favourite project to work on and why?

It would be impossible to pick just one favourite project. We dedicate so much of ourselves to each and every project, so to pick just one would be like choosing a favourite child. There is nothing more rewarding for us than seeing our client’s spaces come to life and we aim to always exceed their expectations.

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

Each project has its challenges, and there is no particular one that comes to mind as the hardest. We often work on listed buildings, which invariably tend to be tricky but also exciting as you uncover the many hidden surprises that they often have in store. There is never an easy project.

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

CAD, and our network of amazing craftspeople and suppliers.

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

To deliver amazing projects and exceed our client’s expectations. We are also moving into our new studio, with plenty of space to house our ever-expanding design library.

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

Your most treasured possession?

Although I’m a self-professed hoarder, I can’t pick one physical possession to name here. But spending time with my family means everything to me.

Your favourite holiday destination?

Maldives. The scenery is just breathtaking and the natural colours are out of this world.

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?

I love to try new and different places, but it’s hard to beat Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, Scott’s in London, and the après-ski vibe in Le Rouge in Verbier.

Your favourite book, film & song?

War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy – it’s so profound and timeless.

All the Bond films – what’s not to love?

Pride and Joy by Stevie Ray Vaughan  – my toddler son drops everything to dance to it and it’s just the cutest thing to watch.

Your favourite food and drink?

Hawksmoor rib-eye steak and Pol Roger champagne, but not together.

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?

Strolling through the Marché aux Puces at Saint-Ouen in Paris, or snowboarding in the mountains.

If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?

Been there, done that, don’t want that T-shirt.

Birch House

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If you think you have what it takes to compete in The International Design & Architecture Awards, submit your application by clicking here.

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