” Interior design is a combination of art, science and psychology. Creating spaces that enhance productivity and wellbeing through well-considered research and planning.” — Natasha Gupta
Q&A with Natasha Gupta
Upcoming and super talented Interior Designer, Natasha has been making a name for herself within the hospitality sector. The industry of bars, restaurants, clubs has been hit hard and will need, now more than ever, innovative minds like Natasha to create welcoming, unique and engaging spaces for us to enjoy, despite social distancing.
Seb: What is your background?
N: “I started my career in investment management, but always had a passion and keen eye for art, colour, and design. I think it was inevitable that I would switch over to design, and I started out by helping franchisees for restaurants implement design briefs and source materials in the UK. Three years ago, I started my own interior design practice so I could create beautiful interiors in a sustainable way. I have been lucky enough to work on exciting residential and commercial projects. Currently a lot of my clients are in the hospitality sector.”
Seb: How do you describe yourself as an Interior Designer, your style?
N: “I try to understand my clients and what they are uniquely looking for, and I enjoy injecting aspects of their personality and stories into the design. I love colour and pattern so you will see that in my work. I explore different textures and materials and find that unexpected combinations can result in space that is more exciting and memorable. I like to incorporate elements of art and where possible, examples of fine craftsmanship such as bespoke joinery and marquetry.”
Seb:How do you define Interior Design?
N: “Interior design is a combination of Art, science and psychology. Creating spaces that enhance productivity and wellbeing through well considered research and planning. The psychology looks into the best way of using the space according to the users needs and lifestyle. The science looks into optimising this to make the most out of the space efficiently and enhancing it through mediums such as technology. Art is putting this all together in a beautiful and engaging way.“
Seb: What inspires you in life?
N: “My children are my biggest inspiration. I started the business wanting to have the flexibility to be able to spend time with them. As they grow older, I want to show them how important it is to follow your passion. Most importantly I want to be able to contribute to a better future for them, by using design to educate and empower others to think about their impact on the environment.“
Seb: Which inspires and influences your designs?
N: “I find inspiration everywhere; from nature, a piece of art, or leading-edge architecture. I enjoy keeping my creativity flowing by visiting galleries, meeting artists and learning their stories, and connecting with different people from all walks of life. I am passionate about eco-friendly design so regularly attend trade shows and look out for innovative materials and suppliers. I look to make sustainable choices and try to work with local suppliers in order to reduce the carbon footprint of each project, which to an extent can also influence the overall design.”
Seb: What process do you follow for each project?
N: “The first step is to really understand the client and the end user of the space, finding out about their lifestyle and how they will interact with the area. I then work with the client to define the desired mood and ambience of the environment and distill the ideas into the overarching concept. We then look at how the space is used and its intended functionality. This is an integral part of the process and the part that has the ability to make a space withstand the test of time. I will take the clients through the entire process ensuring they understand the reason behind each design choice. This way the clients feel intimately involved in the process and are always incredibly excited at the outcome!“
Seb: What advice would you give to a new Interior Designer?
N: “I started the business with a lot of practical experience and connections with many suppliers in the industry. My advice to new designers would be to get as much on the job experience as you can, you learn so much more about the intricacies of design through working on projects than through books. Initially ask for shadowing work, apprenticeships and work experience not just with interior designers but with other trades such as electrics, plumbing and joinery. The more in-depth knowledge you have, the more it will help you with your designs. While you are learning, find an outlet to practice your creativity in some way… it could be anything for example sketching, painting or even woodwork!“
Seb: If you were about to be reborn, what would you like to be — Still an Interior Designer?
N: “I can’t imagine doing anything else, but I would love to be reborn as an eagle and see the world from a completely different perspective!“
Seb: What is your motto?
N: “Hakuna Matata – It means no worries! Mental health is very close to my heart, in this day and age there is always another way. Look after yourself and others, breathe and there will always be a solution. In the design world we often get faced with seemingly impossible challenged but I always try and find a way to make it work!“
Seb: How can people reach you?
N: “After lockdown I look forward to connecting with people over a drink, till then you can find me at…”
Instagram: www.instagram.com/blue_featherdesign_studio
Web: www.bluefeatherdesigns.co.uk
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/restaurant-designer-natasha-gupta
Natasha Gupta 07903319036
