Ian formed Kensington Interiors in Brighton, UK, in 1980. Since then he
has built an international reputation for classically inspired interiors
of the highest quality. The architectural detailing and discreet paint
finishes are exquisite but this is only part of the story for Ian can also
incorporate the latest in home automation systems into his schemes. Behind
the scenes, lighting,
heating, audio, video and security are controlled by a central computer
and accessed remotely or from any room.
"My clients want the elegance of the past but with 21st century comforts",
he explains. "This can be a problem when restoring historic buildings
where one should try to stick to the original methods of construction and
decoration, and where conservation issues take priority. Renovating and
building from scratch are much easier as all the services can be planned
into the design from the start."
A firm grounding in the world of restoration, renovation and antique
furniture provides Ian with the basis of his designs. 18th and early 19th
century European interiors are a speciality but he is equally at home
creating Art Deco and other early 20th century styles. "The only thing I
draw the line at is modern minimalist interiors" he says. "It's a personal
thing, but they leave me cold and I believe that there are other ways of
creating a clean, uncluttered space that will be warmer and more
comfortable to live in."
Ian also likes to carry out some of the construction work himself when he
gets a chance. "I'm at my happiest in my old painting clothes working on a
fresco, or creating decorative plaster, or panelling a room - it gives me
so much more satisfaction than just making the designs; and I think that
it is only by getting your hands dirty that you can really get a feel for
the project; I often make improvements to the designs as I go along. Also it gives you
the chance to get to know the contractors better - to appreciate their
problems and to be on site to help resolve any problems that might come
up."
Other designers and architects also value his services as a sub-contractor
for special paintwork, decorative plaster, wall panelling and bespoke
furniture as they know that they can rely on him to give the best results
on time and on budget.
Ian can be contacted by e-mail:
ian@kensington-interiors.com
for further information but is currently not taking on new
clients.
Text by Theo Barth.
