Tone Interiors Ltd have been shortlisted in The International Hotel and Property Awards 2023. Read more about Manong Lewis, Kiara Jefferies below:

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Name: Manong Lewis, Kiara Jefferies
Company: Tone Interiors Ltd
Position within company: Manong & Kiara – Owner, Lead Designers Website: www.toneinteriors.co.uk

Tell us a little about your background in design:

Manong –I Graduated in the first Interior design Diploma course available back in 1990 when Interior design was a brand new thing in South Africa- we were the first explorers in this field!
With an Architect as a dad and Fashion Designer mom, Some form of design is in the genes! I started my first Interiors company in Johannesburg South Africa at the age of 21 and didn’t look back from there! This continued when we relocated to the UK 16 years ago.

Kiara – Growing up in a construction and design based family, it was a matter of time until I caved and joined in. After completing my Interior Design Degree, I worked at an architects firm and re-trained as an architectural technician. Following that I spent a number of years working on a large construction site and retail planning company. I wanted to gain as much experience in a variety of sectors before focusing on interior design again, and working with my mom.

How would you describe your personal interior design style?

Manong – A mix of antiques, patterned elements quite eclectic really. I love pieces with a lot of detail, whether its something carved or embroidered alongside a beautiful wallpaper. I strongly believe one needs to surround oneself with beautiful things always – it feeds the soul.

Kiara – I’m drawn more to a particular fabric, texture or piece of furniture. My home has become a composition of different styles, but wherever I look there’s something I love, or something unique.

Where does your design inspiration come from?

For both of us its usually something small, like a particular deign of fabric or texture that fits within the design. From there it expands, but that original nugget of inspiration always finds its home within the design.

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

Creams and organic shapes seem to be making a comeback, and a strong emphasis on nature, natural and sustainable things and ways of interpreting that will also see coming through. Layering of textures , finishes and hand made objects (craftsmanship) will also be valued as much of these skills are fighting to survive.

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

– Sustainability. From sourcing individual pieces for a scheme to reuse them, or having products sustainably produced, the earths resources are precious.
– Story/ journey – theres a story and journey right through from the concept of the design to the client navigating through a completed space – that needs to be sympathetically considered always –
Individuality – how can this space best meet the lifestyle, needs and be fit for purpose, but at the same time be unique and creative
– Texture. Layering and tactile elements to keep visual interest and a timeless feel.
– Incorporating a Biophilic Interior where ever possible, focus on wellness

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

Investing in at least one absolutely beautiful piece, be it a fabric or accessory or wallpaper etc, and work around that!

How important are The International Hotel & Property Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?

For the industry, it is an opportunity to showcase incredible projects and gives new talent an opportunity to be seen and forms connections within the industry which is all important – no man is an island. As a designer, it’s a constant source of inspiration, there are so many incredibly talented people and it is a privilege that our hard work is recognised and honoured!

What projects are you currently working on?

This year is a blend of some beautiful residential homes (think large oak buildings with original restored barns, wellness suites etc) and retail spaces dotted around London.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?

Our favourite project was a Byzantine themed 250 seater restaurant partially cantilevered over a lake . Everything was hand finished, aged, and crafted from the stained glass windows, sculptures, water features, star lighting and mosaics to name a few, a mammoth task, but so worth it in the end! Its the attention to detail that makes a project like this so successful and fulfilling.

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

The most challenging project was this one we have been short listed for more for personal reasons. Two weeks before the project handover we had to deal with the horrific unforeseen suicide of my 24 year old son and brother to Kiara. We continued with the project management and installation, despite our enormous personal loss to meet the commitment we had made to the client. Fabian had been so involved within the design, we felt we couldn’t just let it go incomplete.

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

Beautiful fabrics, both in detail and texture , the services of fantastic reps. Also a fabulous carpenter/joiner that can build anything and make it work!

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

We would like to secure another one or two hospitality projects,we love those – and a few more residential projects as these are more personal, working with homeowners.

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

To treasure every day with your family , don’t wait, tell those around you you love them , always.

Your most treasured possession?

Manong – My son’s piano and guitar, and my grandmothers hand carved large Chinese chest, and a marble hand carved sculpture she gave me. The figures are so detailed, it tells a fabulous story.

Kiara – My engagement ring… my husband designed it, incorporating gems from my family. Besides being a unique and sentimental ring, its then even more sentimental having my family so close to me. And my brothers guitar pick. It comes everywhere with me.

Your favourite holiday destination?

As a family we used to spend a lot of time in the South African Bush, being so close to nature and seeing wild animals in their natural habitat and experiencing the most beautiful sunsets , that9;s always a highlight. It’s a little piece of home.

Your favourite book, film & song?

The agony and ecstasy – Irving Stone
435 Days: An extraordinary true story of survival at sea
Agatha Christie is also a strong favourite within the family

Your favourite food and drink?

Manong – a good cup of tea. Preferably loose leaf English breakfast, in a good teapot.
Kiara – A little bit of Lagavulin

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?

Around moms huge dining table, with good food and close friends.

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

Manong – I’d like to be a textile designer. It’s an area that I find fascinating.
Kiara – Probably an artist, with a beautiful sunlit studio with an entire day to paint.

Tone Interiors

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