Iron and Ivory has been shortlisted for 2 categories in The International Design and Architecture Awards 2022. Read more about Co-Founder and Design Director, Kayla Pongrac, below:

Name: Kayla Pongrac
Company: Iron and Ivory
Position within company: Co-Founder, Design Director
Website: www.ironandivory.com

Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I studied architecture at Carlton University followed by Masters Studies at IAAC in Barcelona.  Art, Design and Architecture have been a passion of mine since I can remember.  I started in art as a child which developed into larger projects and small home renovations.  Studying architecture seemed to be the next natural step, but after years of working in restaurants, hospitality interior design is where I found my niche.  It was here that I could combine art, design and architecture to transform spaces and bring joy to others.  Residential design recently entered my wheelhouse of skills, but I keep this to a minimum and focus on projects that really allow me to transform spaces.  

How would you describe your personal design style?
Minimal, artful, considerate 

Where does your design inspiration come from?
My travels and my friends. 

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I think architects and designers are becoming more mindful of the environmental impact of design and in turn, they are designing better spaces through restoration, preservation, natural materials, conscious sourcing, and so on.  I believe they are also helping their clients design spaces with meaning by building a narrative around a personal lifestyle or a local community. 

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2022 and beyond.
Awareness
Holism 
Thoughtful layering 
Story building
Responsive 

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

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
Very. We need to connect with other designers, architects, builders, investors, and appreciators alike, especially after a pandemic. Seeing others complete projects is inspiring, motivating and enjoyable. 

What projects are you currently working on?
We are working on a fun project in Miami, a hotel in Ottawa, a restaurant in Toronto and some residential in London. Maybe we will work on a restaurant in London soon!

What was your favourite project to work on and why?
Restaurants. I love working with other creatives and bring together a holistic design with food, beverage, music and ambiance coming together to create memorable experiences. 

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?
I find renovation projects very challenging.  They are also more work than you anticipate. But the transformation and the final product is always so rewarding – it’s worth it. 

Which products/services could you not live without when designing?
MARBLE! Or any natural stones. This for me is ‘earth’s art’ and the best statement you can add to your interiors. 

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
To do a restaurant in London and somewhere in Europe, ideally Spain! 

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

Your most treasured possession? A vintage green gold ring from my mom. 
Your favourite holiday destination? Tulum 
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar? Hotel – Nolinski Paris; Restaurant – A. Wong; Bar – Red Room Connaught
Your favourite book, film & song? Book – Untamed; Film – Melancholia; Song – Folha de Jurema
Your favourite food and drink? Food – Cacio e Pepe; Drink – Mezcal Old Fashion
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? Rooftop pool in the summer. Art Gallery in the winter.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be? An Artist! 
Anything else interesting? I play classical piano.  Classical music is mostly what I listen to whilst designing. 

Iron and Ivory are shortlisted in The International Design and Architecture Awards 2022.

---

design et al only work with the world’s leading designers.

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

How to Apply  /  The Categories