Designer Interview
32 Froen
The opportunity to create and develop spaces was one of the reasons that we became an interior designers. We have always been fascinated by the world of the arts and this interest grew and has helped make us the…
Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
The opportunity to create and develop spaces was one of the reasons that we became an interior designers. We have always been fascinated by the world of the arts and this interest grew and has helped make us the designer we are today.
Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
Spacerooom Design evolved from the desire of two friends and colleagues to come together and create a studio where they could apply all their knowledge and marry architecture, design and decorative art.
The projects developed by Spaceroom Design have been recognized for their unique and exclusive approach to spaces, where they highlight elegance and confort associated with form and function. The development of each project results from a strict and rigorous choice of materials, colors, textures down to the tiniest detail. All the projects carrying the Spaceroom signature are made up of details.
What is "design" for you?
Design is everywhere, that´s why its difficult to find a unique definition.
A process of creating an object/anything else where we use our creativeness to make the object beautiful.
In our projects we always introduce “design”, because a good project need to be thought out, well strutured and developed to fuelfill its role, whilst still pleasing to the eye of the beholder.
What kinds of works do you like designing most?
At Spaceroom each product/project is developed with passion and we ensure that each piece is special. The projects that are most rewarding for us as designers, are those that involve the spacial reorganization of a home or commercial establishment.
What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
As interior designers we are particularly fascinated by furniture design. Having studied the great designers of the 20th Century we are inspired by them in all our projects and creations.
What was the first thing you designed for a company?
Our first project for a company was designing the office space for a portuguese startup think tank, Dock 38. This had to be a space that would stimulate creative thought for the best and most promising young entrepreuners.
When do you feel the most creative?
We feel most creative when we went to certain places who give us an exeptional perception of natural, cultural na architectural suroundings
Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
Firstly we ensure that the object is functional for everyone. Then we work on the aesthetics, where we focus on the simplicity and purity of the object or group of objects.
What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
Mariana - I feel accomplished.
Rita - I feel mission oriented to make a good design and show my own vision for each space created by me. I am excited to achieve the outcome I really want.
What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
Mariana – First of all "Mission accomplished"!!! Then, an immense pride in the final result.
Rita – I feel a huge gratification for having achieved my goals and know that I will continue to evolve over time.
What makes a design successful?
There are several issues that are important for an object or collection of objects to be successful, but undoubtedly the creativity and originality combined with functionality are the main factors for recognition
When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
The functionality and aesthetics. We live in a time where we can find just about anything, anywhere, so to stand out in this market we have to be demanding and this has to be reflected in the product. Something has to be extraordinarily appealing to stands apart from other products on offer and still serve its purpose well.
From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
Designers are responsables to find the best way to satisfy the client but never damaging the environment trought the choice of materials and production methods.
How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
There is no doubt that the concept has grown, both through the introduction of new materials and new production techniques. Currently, with the massification of technology there has been an unprecedented development in the field of design and certainly much is still to be done in this field.
Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
We try to keep ourselves updated on what has been done in the field of design and architecture nationally and especially internationally, so we can follow the evolution and automatically respond to changing market demands.
How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
The spaceroom doesn't have a defined style, we always are looking for the good taste in timeless platform associated with the costumers taste. Influenced by the history of design, we try to do a mix between a classic furniture pieces and contemporary design
Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
We live in the Lisbon area of Portugal. We feel that is a strong influence on our design from our cultural heritage. This is reflected most in furniture and decorative arts because of the richness of our history and the influences that the portuguese discoveries brought from all over the world. Because of our geographic location sometimes it is difficult to make our voice heard.
How do you work with companies?
Spaceroom has a relationship with some suppliers particularly for carpentry and construction. We aim to have a direct relationship to ensure that the manufacturing of the pieces is closely accompanied to minimize production errors.
What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
we look for someone who has the same training as us. Someone who can work independently and be dynamic without losing sight of the idea of the project.
Can you talk a little about your design process?
First it is important to visit the site and take all the measurments and photos to create a sketch. Than between the client´s wishes and our inspiration we develop our project. This is presented to the client and any alterations that are necessary can be made before we start the on site work.
What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
Long Chair by Charles and Ray Eames,
Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
We usually star by sketch followed by a search in our own library, architectural and interior design magazines, internet etc etc... after that we organized our research to digital programs like ACad 2d and 3d modeling.
Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
We always stipulate a deadline date for our projects, through this, we plan the intire process with our team. It’s essential to know the time to manage each project and establish goals and objectives.
How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
It depends the type of the project. But if we are talking about an object maybe one week. For a interior design it takes more than one month.
What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
How much does it cost? It's possible?
What was your most important job experience?
Being an interior design is the most importante job experience… ever!!!
Who are some of your clients?
Most of them are private clients, but sometimes we have companies as clients.
What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
As creators we prefer developing spaces that bring us satisfaction and also serve us a learning experience. We create to add beauty and improve peoples life. Every new projects, bei t for a private our a public cliente, bring new challenges, which we see as na oportunity to use our creativity to it best advantage
What are your future plans? What is next for you?
We want to continue growing as designers and as a company. And also contribute to the development of our country and be recognized internationally.
Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
In Spaceroom all our work is done as a team.
Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
We are currently developing a luxury Hostel located in an area marked by nature and cultural and architectural heritage. This project reaches out to a more demanding and refined customer.
How can people contact you?
May you contact Spaceroom by mail - geral@spaceroom.pt - or you can visit our website - www.spaceroom.pt
