LSP Design have been shortlisted for Seating Award in The International Design and Architecture Awards 2022.

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Name: Lauren Perlman
Company: LSP-Design
Position within company: Owner
Website: LSP-DESIGN.COM

Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc):
I was surrounded by art and design from an early age. My late mother was an artist and grandmother an interior designer. I formalise my knowledge through a Diploma in Applied Design from KLC School of Design in Chelsea. I have been involved over the years in several renovation and construction projects as well as interior design.

How would you describe your personal design style?
My personal design style is eclectic and all my interiors incorporate Art as a central theme. I have a love of hand-made objects. I have always been a collector, ranging from shells or pebbles found on a beach to ceramics and art. I love to use texture in all forms from finishes to fabrics.

Where does your design inspiration come from?
Visiting shows like Salone Mobilier in Milan; Maison and Objects in Paris, Decorex; Art Basel and different events during Design Week. Nature and my heritage are constant sources of inspiration.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I would like to think we are moving towards a focus on sustainable and responsible design. Wherever possible, we as designers should be looking to repurpose, upscale and recycle materials. Materials should be responsibly, ethically and sustainably sourced. We have a responsibility to our clients, to educate them and encourage them to make the right choices, and to our environment.

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

1. Sustainability
2. Climate impact, looking to encourage the philosophy of Genius- Loci in all projects, and in so doing try to reduce our carbon footprint and be more in tune with our environment
3. Multi – functional space, COVID has made us realise we need to have flexible and adaptable interiors, where we can section off parts of a living space, for example to turn into an office by day.
4. Relevance – engagement with our environment and enrichment of our experience within our interiors
5. Inclusiveness

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Listen to the client and understand their needs, then translate this into a written brief which they can review before going ahead.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
Industry awards are essential in promoting cutting edge design and showcasing creativity and innovation.

What projects are you currently working on?
I’m currently focussed on developing my range of bespoke furniture which includes mirrors, small tables, console tables, lamps, candelabra. These are limited addition, like the chair.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?
Designing the chair has been my favourite project so far. It was something I had never done before so it took me out of my comfort zone. Working with the maker was a great experience (Blackbird Bespoke) Louis Calmels, has been in the business forever and he is incredibly talented. We also had the added challenge of working together during COVID. We did a lot of work on Zoom, and then I would go into his workshop on Saturday’s when they were closed. This project highlighted my love and passion for designing unique pieces, and since finishing the Idzila chair I have been busy designing a complete range which I’m really excited about.. I’m hoping to produce these in 2022.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing?
My laptop and the various software one needs for the job, the internet for research,

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
My aim is to finalise my new designs and get them made and to market.

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession?
It’s a small teapot, from a South African grassroots ceramics studio called Ardemore. Its handle and lid basically look like a giraffe’s head and neck. It is hand- made and the artist and potter have signed the bottom. Its an example of an excellent collaboration between two unique artists, the potter and the painter.

Your favourite holiday destination?
Cape Town,  South Africa

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Don’t really have one particular favourite, too many to mention Delaire Graff Wine Estate, Stellenbosch – magnificent setting and beautifully appointed interiors.

Your favourite book, film & song?
Film – Hunt for the Wilderpeople, an absolute must. Book – The Hare with Amber Eyes, Edmund De Waal. Song – I love music and would find it difficult to single out one song as my absolute favourite

Your favourite food and drink?
Middle Eastern food

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
If I could it would be to take a long walk on the beach with my dog and kids, or in my garden entertaining friends on a perfect summers day.

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

LSP Design have been shortlisted for Seating Award in The International Design and Architecture Awards 2022.