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In Profle:
Sukari Design

In Profile:

Sukari Design

Shortlisted: Kitchen Design Over £100,000 Award

The International Design & Architecture Awards 2024

Name: Antonina Scotti

Company: Sukari Design

Position within company: Director

Website: sukaridesign.com

Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)

With a keen interest in interiors and assisting my husband, who is a property developer, with his projects I decided to receive formal training at Sydney Design School. I was then invited by a good friend, who was an interior designer and had her own business, to join her company. After working well together, and collaboratively growing the business, I became an equal partner and director of the company. Our company has established a reputation for detail-oriented interiors and has competed several luxury residential projects all over Sydney, many of which I have been lead designer.

How would you describe your personal design style?

A sophisticated mix of traditional and modern elements, creating spaces that are both timeless and contemporary. I like to juxtapose classic, enduring pieces with sleek, cutting-edge accents, resulting in an aesthetic that honours the past while embracing the present.

Where does your design inspiration come from?

My travels across Australia and Europe have been the biggest sources of inspiration for me. Australia’s rugged landscapes, beaches and relaxed lifestyle have influenced many of the coastal and rural projects I have completed, whereas Europe’s grand, highly detailed architecture and sleek modern interiors, has formed the basis for luxury residential interior design projects I have lead.

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

Design trends are always evolving, but recently, there has been a notable shift towards maximalism. Bold colours, intricate patterns, and eclectic accessories create spaces that are rich in texture and personality and I feel that people are using their interiors as an source of self-expression.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2024 and beyond.

Wellness-focused design: With mental health awareness increasing, clients are wanting to create a sanctuary within their home. Spas, saunas, gyms and meditation rooms are being integrated into luxury homes to create a “Wellness Zone” where people can recentre and focus on the mind/body connection that is vital in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Sustainability: With growing environmental concerns, sustainable design practices are becoming increasingly important in design, as they help reduce the negative impact on the planet and promote healthier living environments. Energy efficient products, resource conservation and waste reduction are important issues for both designers and clients.

3. Technological integration: We are using technology to enhance the luxury and functionality of our projects including smart home integration, lighting control systems and allowances for electric vehicles are all things that need to be considered moving forward.

4. Adaptability and flexibility: With the Covid-19 pandemic a major shift to working from home became the norm. Designated work areas for clients with limited space and home offices for larger projects, are spaces in the home that clients are continuing to ask us designers pay attention to. Using furniture that can be adapted to our client’s needs has become increasingly important.

5. Customisation: Personalisation and customization in interior design is important for our clients, as they feel that our designs cater to the unique needs, preferences, and lifestyles. By incorporating custom and bespoke elements that reflect their personality and preferences, we create a space that is truly their own, reflecting their identity and style.

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

An important piece of advice when it comes to designing a space is to equally prioritise functional and practical aspects of a client’s needs alongside aesthetics. While it’s important for spaces to look beautiful, they should also serve the needs of the people who use them. By considering how the design will enhance the user experience, facilitate workflow, and contribute to the overall functionality of the space, the day-to-day use of a space becomes enjoyable, epitomising the true meaning of luxury.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?

The International Design & Architecture Awards hold significant importance within the design community. They provide a platform for designers and architects to showcase their work on a global stage, recognize excellence and innovation in design, and inspire creativity within the industry. Winning an award can enhance a designer’s reputation, attract new clients, and open opportunities for collaboration and professional growth.

What projects are you currently working on?

We are currently working on several luxury projects including a 600 sqm contemporary residence overlooking the harbour, an 1800sqm rural home we have labelled “The Contemporary Chateau”, a 900 sqm transitional residence in the suburbs of Sydney.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?

The Country Escape project was one of my favourite projects. With amazing clients who allowed me to flex my creative muscles, I incorporated elements from the surrounding environment to create an entertainer’s paradise. Maximising the open plan, I designed a 7-metre kitchen island incorporating an indoor barbeque, sandstone clad pizza oven and champagne trough. The design process, end result and the reaction of my clients makes this project the most memorable and fulfilling to date.

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

We were engaged on a large residential project in Sydney and the clients lived in the USA during the Covid 19 pandemic. This created several challenges in terms of communicating our design intent and executing the design. Travel was non-existent, delivery services were extremely slow and having trades come to site was extremely difficult. This resulted in slow progress of the build but with fortitude and determination we were able to achieve a beautiful result.

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

Natural stone, good quality materials, and detail-oriented trades are all integral parts of putting a successful design scheme together.

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

To have the opportunity to work on an international project which will hopefully lead to the expansion of our company internationally.

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

Your most treasured possession?
A family bracelet that has been passed down from my great grandmother

Your favourite holiday destination?
Italy – Ischia/ Taormina

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
The Portrait Hotel Milan and Beef Bar Milan

Your favourite book, film & song?
Meet Joe Black

Your favourite food and drink?
Tartuffo papardelle and a Pinot Noir

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
With family and friends, wine, cheese, and pasta

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

Anything else interesting?
I also have a degree in pharmacology and microbiology.

Interior Designer: Sukari Design

Photography: Pablo Veiga

Sukari Design has been shortlisted for the Kitchen Design Over £100,000 Award in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2024.

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