Relativity Architects have been shortlisted for Hotel Design – Americas Award and Hotel Under 50 Rooms Global Award in The International Hotel and Property Awards 2023. Read more about the Founding Partner Tima Bell below:

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Name: Tima Bell 
Company: Relativity Architects  
Position within company: Founding Parnter,  Principal 
Website: www.studioofrelativity.com 

Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc). I have a Masters of Architecture from SCI-Arc, started my first firm in graduate school and have never worked for another firm.  Early work focused mainly on Hospitality design, but with Relativity Architects, my current firm, our work has grown to include Retail, Affordable and Market Multi-family housing, Tech and Creative office and Motion Picture Studios. 

How would you describe your personal interior design style? Innovative and contextual.  There is always inspiration, but ideally it is seamlessly melded into program and environment with a consciousness of budget. 

Where does your design inspiration come from?  Absorbing experiences.  Whether it’s travel, reading, deep and meaningful conversations, music, etc. There is always a trace to draw upon. 

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense? Unfortunately, it appears to be moving towards the “quick-hit”, insta moment.  I’ve always worked towards creating designs that will stand the test of time and not become dated in 5 years.  It’s very difficult to do, and requires an intense amount of thorough research.  I’m not interested in trends, but it’s a struggle to convince clients of that. 

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2023 and beyond. Biophilia, Clean/Minimal, Authentic, Critical and Thought provoking.  (These have and will always be my thesmes) 

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be? Consider the marriage of use and environment, and not “your” style.  If you are good at this, the space will be an appropriate masterpiece. 

How important are The International Hotel & Property Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?  It’s an honor to be considered as many of the worlds best designers are recognized consistently by the IH&PA. 

What projects are you currently working on?  A Hotel in Florida, Restaurants in Los Angeles, an Artists community in Montenegro, a “Glampground” in Joshua Tree and a retreat in Ibiza.  And many more 

What was your favourite project to work on and why? Recently, it would be the Venice V Hotel in Venice Beach.  It was an incredible exercise to look at the real and perceived history and worldwide cultural impact of this small but urban beachside community, and translate it into special hospitality experiences. 

What was your most challenging project to work on and why? The design of spaces is never challenging, because it’s so much fun!  The challenging aspect of any project is coordinating clients, budgets and code while maintaining the design vision.  Truthfully, that’s every project. 

Which products/services could you not live without when designing? Artisans that design custom pieces are always special, look at Gaudi’s work.  But having the incredible resources of lighting, hardware and textile vendors at your fingertips definitely makes things easier. 

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?  It’s always going to be projects that spark creativity.  Yes, I’d love a museum, or an eco resort in paradise, but even the smallest kiosks can get those creative juices flowing.  I’m also very excited to be opening an office in Madrid, so pursuing EU projects is definitely a goal in the next year. 

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations: I love watching the weather change, I love inspiring my firm to do great work, I enjoy being a mentor, and the thrill of the hunt for a great project remains an exciting part of my schedule.   

Your most treasured possession?  That would be my library – I’ve got over 20k volumes and I will forever love books. 

 
Your favourite holiday destination? I find myself consistently in Europe, and really enjoy the European urban environment, but I recently loved a trip to the Croatian islands.  There are many places I have not seen and am going to. . .so check back in a year 

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar? This changes consistently, as I try to stay in new ones all the time.  Recently I stayed in the Only You hotel in the Chueca area of Madrid, and that was wonderful. 

 
Your favourite book, film & song? I’ll always love Camus, Steely Dan and Blazing Saddles, but there is no such thing as favourites in my experience.   Currently I’m reading about how Giacometti painted portraits, listening to tribal house music, and enjoying the Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power series. 

Your favourite food and drink?  Tacos?  As a foodie, and amateur chef, I love making Mexican food by hand (tortillas too!), but I am excited to explore what’s happening in Madrid right now.  

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?  Playing some basketball with my kids and then a dip in the ocean. 
 
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?  I’d love to be on TV as the “Bourdain” of architecture.  Travelling around the world looking at amazing local and cosmopolitan design with a critical eye. 
 
Anything else interesting?  You’ll have to get to know me to find out more.

Relativity Architects

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