SP9 London have been shortlisted for Living Space – London Award in The International Design and Architecture Awards 2023. Read more about Creative Director, Pei Li, below:

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Name: Pei Li

Company: SP9 London

Position within company: Creative Director 

Website: https://www.sp9london.com/

Tell us a little about your background in design:

I was educated in various countries such as, China, New Zealand and Canada, and got my bachelor degree in Graphic Design in Toronto. I came to London after my graduation, and worked in some graphic design firms. However, I later on found my passion lies in interior design. I then worked in the high-end residential interior industry until becoming an independent designer, and established my very first brand Ori Home. Ori Home is a light brand aims to preserve and revive traditional oriental hand embroidery techniques with the incorporation of functional lighting objects. One of my designs got awarded by International Yacht and Aviation Awards in 2019, later in 2020 I founded SP9 with my business partner who’s background is in furniture design and production. We have been working in the luxury residential sector ever since.

How would you describe your personal design style?

SP9 combines a sleek, contemporary palette with the personal narrative of each individual client. Sophisticated, pared-back tones are often enlivened by vibrant accents of colour from delicate traditional silk embroidery or fine, handmade porcelain pieces to add an element of heritage and comfort.

Where does your design inspiration come from?

It comes from my multicultural upbringing and my passion for colours, photography, nature and cultures. I love photographing nature and architecture, these two subjects have expanded my ability to discover new perspectives and possibilities with a sharp and critical eye.

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

I feel that design in general is heading towards a more crafts-focused direction. Preserving, repurposing fine craftsmanship and discovering new possibilities to appropriately situate these fine crafts in different design settings. 

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2023 and beyond.

Sustainable materials, Fine craftsmanship, Repurpose, Culture awareness, Respect 

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

Think of it as painting on canvas, having the layout, structure and composition  clear is the first step, then it is always crucial to know what colours, materials to consistently use throughout the project, which will ensure the project have a sense of continuity and cohesiveness. Having the correct lighting scheme will also elevate the mood of the space, I like to build ambience lighting in projects, because this will create layers, depths and personalties to the space. 

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?

They are important because they promote the innovative and inspirational aspects of the design industry on a global scale. I believe talented individuals should be recognised and rewarded, and The International Design & Architecture Awards offers the opportunity and platform for them to exchange their unique ideas and expose their creativity. 

What projects are you currently working on?

We are working on some exciting residential projects in London, we have some inquiries from Hong Kong, so it would be great to expand our market in Asia!

What was your favourite project to work on and why?

My favorite project has to be the Belgravia Residence, it was quite challenging to work on a project with on and off lockdowns. However, the client was very understanding and reasonable. She worked with us together from time to time as a team to realise the project, so I have to say we couldn’t complete this massive project without her help and effort. 

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

It has to be Belgravia Residence again. As I mentioned, this project started right in the middle of the Pandemic, so we had to deal with on and off lockdowns, uncertain lead time with suppliers, contractors and logistic teams as we were shipping many goods from other countries. 

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

A good carpenter plays a super important role in completing a project. A professional carpenter will suggest the best materials for specific needs, looks required within the price range. A professional carpenter will also deliver in the timely fashion, as most of our projects need carpentry, and it takes a large chunk of the entire project. So we cannot risk having an unpunctual carpenter to create the domino effect. 

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

In addition to carrying on delivering exceptional interior design services, we are also planning to get into the property development business with a few of our former clients. So we hope this expansion could lead to another successful adventure. 

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

Your most treasured possession?
Laptop and iPhone

Your favourite holiday destination?
Iceland, Greece, Japan

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Hotel: Punta Tragara
Bar and restaurant: Soho House

Your favourite book, film & song?
Too many to list

Your favourite food and drink?
Food: Too many to list
Drink: ‘Skinny Bitch’, Vodka Martini

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
On a silver sand beach having a ‘Skinny Bitch’ with my friends and a good DJ. 

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

SP9 London

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