Leo Sentou
Design Director
I would endlessly be inspired by the beauty that Art Deco architects and designers produced; whether talking about the "traditionalists" or the modernists. I keep being astounded by the modernity of some of interiors created 100 years ago where elegance met functionality and of course the highest craftsmanship. It is now perceived as simply as a style, but it really was a pioneering movement that keeps defining the way we live and approach our surroundings. What particularly resonates with me and the work I am doing at Finchatton is that progress can honor the past meaning that modernity can be elegant. Perhaps this is why its appeal remains so enduring.
I could enumerate countless incredible projects but I am particularly drawn to the work of Jean-Michel Frank where he abstracted 18th century traditional panelling and furniture to capture the essence if it. I find the result always pared back, utterly sophisticated. There was an inherent austerity almost as a base palette that was then enriched with bronze work by Giacometti, rugs drawn by Berard, sometimes some daring colours but always everything in the most perfect proportion.
Alex Jaggs
Director of Architecture
The most fundamental part of my job is designing homes that people want to live in - it's as simple as that! I'm passionate about the architectural character of a house, creating a home which feels as though it has always been there, which looks beautiful, is immediately inviting and has a sense of place.
I’m inspired by the enduring design and quality of houses in New England – these are often newly built homes, but look as though they have been there for years, adapting to the families who inhabit them. Above all, they sit easily in their surroundings and work supremely well for modern day living.
Much of the detailing is inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement and this creates layers of design interest. The more time spent in these houses reveals unexpected design details. I love the fact that every property is unique.
Ore Adesoye
Interior Designer
I am drawn to Tropical Modernism, where interiors blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a deep connection with their surroundings.
One project that inspires me is M House by Rama Architects, which plays with natural materials and rich textures to create a tactile environment.
Its design encourages exploration and an appreciation of organic imperfections, celebrating the raw beauty of nature and craftsmanship.
Classical Inspiration
It’s no surprise that the eponymous architects of the Georgian period inspire much of the work we do. The classical country house style is timeless - the symmetrical form works as well today as it did in the 1800s. The classical proportions, elegant facades and considered detailing feature strongly in many of our country projects, but many elements are also incorporated in the interior architecture of our projects in London.
Natasha Heyes
Interior Architect
The Dolunay Villa in Bodrum, Turkey, by Foster + Partners, inspires me with its sleek, modern design and harmonious integration with the natural surroundings. The calming presence of its clean lines and expansive glass surfaces, combined with its sense of laid-back luxury, evokes a sense of peace and tranquillity.
Alyson Khaw
Design Manager
Travel has profoundly shaped my approach to design, drawing inspiration from diverse cultures, landscapes, and architectural marvels.
Each journey introduces me to unique design philosophies that broaden my creative horizons, while providing invaluable insights into alternative design aesthetics, user behaviours, and problem-solving approaches. Japanese architecture in particular focuses on simplicity and a keen attention to detail, which is my preferred approach to design.
The Four Leaves Villa by Kentaro Ishida Architects Studio exemplifies that simplicity and detail through the design of the multi-tiered sloping roof that mimics the gentle curve of fallen leaves and the seamless integration of the interior spaces.