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In Profile:
Forum Phi | Architecture, Interiors & Planning

In Profile:

Forum Phi | Architecture, Interiors & Planning

Shortlisted: Residential £10 Million Market Value Award

The International Design & Architecture Awards 2026

Forum Phi

Name: Courtenay Wright
Company Name: Forum Phi Architecture | Interiors | Planning
Position Within Company: Senior Interior Design Project Manager
Website: https://forumphi.com/

Tell us a little about your background in design:
Attended the University of Cincinnati – DAAP. Started in hospitality design in Memphis, Tennessee, with HBG Design (formerly Hnedak Bobo Group), focused on Casino, hotel, & restaurants design. Moved to Aspen & Forum Phi in 2018 and transitioned into high-end residential design.

How would you describe your personal design style?:
I would describe my design style as mountain modern with an eclectic edge. I’m drawn to rich, moody colors, layered textures, and warm wood tones that create depth and character. My spaces feel cozy yet grounded and refined — blending clean architectural lines with thoughtfully collected, personality-driven pieces and plenty of greenery to bring life and a natural connection to the outdoors.

Where does your design inspiration come from?:
A lot of my design inspiration comes from digital sources. Platforms like Pinterest and Instagram allow me to explore ideas, discover new aesthetics, and see how designers are pushing boundaries. I take these influences and reinterpret them in my own way, combining them with nature, textures, and collected pieces to create spaces that feel fresh, personal, and forward-thinking.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
Design is shifting from minimal, linear spaces to warmer, layered environments where aesthetics and functionality coexist, creating authentic, textured, and inviting spaces that are also more multi-functional.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future.:
Connection to nature, Wellness, Tech-integrated yet human-centered, Functionality & adaptability

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be?:
Don’t underestimate the power of a great space plan.

Forum Phi
Forum Phi
Forum Phi

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?:
The International Design & Architecture Awards provide a valuable platform for the global design community to connect, celebrate creativity, and recognize the evolving standards of design on an international scale.

What projects are you currently working on?:
Large-scale, luxury residential homes in Aspen & Snowmass.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?:
Slopeside has been my favorite project — an incredibly trusting client who gave us the creative freedom and time to understand his desires, resulting in a personal, layered, and successful home.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?:
Projects with highly involved clients are often the most challenging. Clients can underestimate the complexities of the trade, which can slow the process and require careful explanation of the design decisions we’ve refined over the years.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing?:
When designing, I love integrating natural materials. Companies like Sklo, Lawson Glass, and Apparatus offer custom blown glass and mixed-metal pieces that add texture and character. I also look for products with subtle Western undertones, which resonate particularly well with our Aspen clientele.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?:
We aim to continually refine our craft and process and invest in our team so that we can create an excellent experience for our clients and bring even more meaningful built works into the world

Your most treasured possession?
My dogs, Boogie & Ralph

Your favourite holiday destination?:
Italy

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?:
Hotel: Surf Hotel & Chateau, Buena Vista, Colorado
Restaurant: Next2, Postiano, Italy
Bar: Round House Bar, Port Clinton, Ohio

Your favourite book, film & song?:
Book: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Film: Mrs. Doubtfire
Song: River by Leon Bridges

Your favourite food and drink?:
Food: Sushi
Drink: Bubbly water

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?:
Outside. Preferably on the river with my dogs.

If you weren’t in this sector, what would your alternative profession be?
Event planning. A faster-paced interior design world.

Interior Designer: Forum Phi | Architecture, Interiors & Planning

Architect: James Ford

Construction: Clearwater Construction Management

Associated: Albright & Associates

Photography: Dallas and Harris

Forum Phi | Architecture, Interiors & Planning has been shortlisted for Residential £10 Million Market Value Award in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2026.

Forum Phi
Forum Phi

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