Day Studio London have been shortlisted for Restaurant – Europe Award in The International Hotel and Property Awards 2021.

Name: Lisa Helmanis
Company: Day Studio
Position within company: Creative Director/Founder
Website: www.daystudio.co.uk

Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
After studying Fine Art & Theory  at Goldmiths College London, I spent several years as a journalist specialising in design, interiors and travel. 11 years ago I set up Day Studio as an outlet for my desire to make and create, and this became my passion. 

How would you describe your personal interior design style?
A classical love of materials, a sense of place and time and  an injection of wit.

Where does your design inspiration come from?
Always travel, books and found objects. I often used them in my schemes or use them to inspire a mood. 

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
More designs made to last, built to age well, a preservation of materials and a  lighter touch on the planet. Materials that solve ecological issues not just avoid creating them. 

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2020 and beyond.
Minimising energy use, optimism in colour, reusing materials, communal living, multiple use spaces

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be?
Always trust your instincts. Ignore fashions. Remember lighting changes how colours operate. 

How important are The International Hotel & Property Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
It’s a great opportunity to acknowledge the importance of design to improve everyday life and imagine a possible world. 

What projects are you currently working on?
A bakery and coffee shop redesign, three new restaurants and a packaging rebrand. 

What was your favourite project to work on and why?
Relationship building, finding interesting new makers, making the practice more green. 

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?
Padella Phipp Street was challenging because we had a beautiful space with a lot of light and height that need to feel good all day. So lots of design and practical challenges. But we managed it. 

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

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Relationship building, finding interesting new makers, new work

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Running along the canal before the day starts taking things in. A lot of tea. Galleries and books. All of the above is a perfect inspiration day. And just getting into the work, seeing what comes up. 

Your most treasured possession? My painting by artist Ben Spiers

Your favourite holiday destination? The world – but currently Portugal and Scotland

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar? Has to be Trullo in Islington.  Local to me, the food never fails and the team are always impeccable.

Your favourite book, film & song? Most of John Martyns back catalogue. 

Your favourite food and drink? Sunday Roast and an excellent white Burgundy

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?

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

Anything else interesting? There is something beautiful to find in everything. You just need to know how to look. 

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If you think you have what it takes to complete in The International Hotel & Property Awards, submit your application by clicking here.

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