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The Design Questionnaire with Siobhan Kelly of David Collins Studio
In this edition of Love Happens’ Proust-style Design Questionnaire, join us for a peek inside the creative design mind of Siobhan Kelly, Associate Director of the London-based interior architecture and design practice David Collins Studio.
Read on to learn more about Siobhan Kelly and the renowned David Collins Studio!
Inside the World of Siobhan Kelly & David Collins Studio
With two masters in architecture and design experience both on her own and with top industry names Louise Bradley and Candy & Candy, Siobhan Kelly is a spectacularly talented architect and interior designer. And a super kind and fashionable woman!
Siobhan joined David Collins Studio in 2018 as Associate Director. Today she and the award-winning studio’s team of 50 designers create inspirational hospitality, residential, and retail projects around the world.
Co-founded in 1985 by the late David Collins and current CEO Iain Watson, David Collins Studio is a globally recognized brand and an expert in contemporary luxury and design. With a team inherently knowledgeable about design and architecture, history, and global cultures, the firm is known for its meticulously crafted, beautifully appointed timeless interiors infused with a sense of modern glamour.
A Peek Inside the Fabulous and Inspiring Mind of Siobhan Kelly with the Lh Design Questionnaire
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
It changes all the time! It sounds cheesy, but for me, it exists in the places I’m able to be whole. Travelling, spending time with my husband and family, creating with my extraordinary colleagues. Being in a harmonious environment, whether that’s the natural world or a beautifully designed space.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Scent! Whether it’s perfume or candles, scent has the ability to charge a space and shape your experience. I love Cire Trudon’s scents, and particularly that Maison Trudon has committed to supporting the protection of the European dark bee, which is endemic to France’s Centre-Val de Loire region, where the factory is based.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Most experiences are an achievement in some form, even the ones you might initially think of as failures! There is so much that I have enjoyed and been extremely fulfilled by so far, but I suppose each time we hand over a project to a happy client feels like the greatest achievement. When they re-discover small moments about their home that we talked through together during the design process and notice how the custom detail makes the overall work so well for them – that is really special.
What profession does your alter ego have?
I love storytelling, so perhaps a writer.
The project you will never forget.
I’m not sure you ever forget any project you design! However many of them I can’t mention. David Collins’ home isn’t one that I’ve worked on, but it’s one I return to countless times for inspiration. Colour, composition, and layering of texture and materials.
Your favorite business tool or resource.
Instagram is becoming central to the way in which a lot of us work these days. Not strictly a business tool, but our library is an incredible resource.
The most timeless design.
Is at the intersection of user experience, context, and materiality. Crafted objects and spaces. The Connaught Bar is a great example of this, from the Pierre Bonnefille panelling abstractly depicting the patchwork fields of Connaught in Ireland as seen from above, to the martini bar cart. Having a drink there is a timeless experience.
The biggest design faux pas.
Pinterest, when it’s used as a superficial means of forming a design. Good design is underpinned by considered thought and context.
Your motto.
Immerse yourself, then take a step back.
Love happens when…
You least expect it.
Explore more of David Collins Studio’s beautiful work at www.davidcollins.studio.
By Anna Beck Bimba
