If you haven’t seen the Spring Edition of Urban Realm Magazine – the leading magazine for the architectural and design industry in Scotland. You can read what our interior designer Mhairi-Claire Wilkes had to say below.
Interior Designers must not only embrace creativity but also delve into the minds of their clients to maximise design success.
What direction is interior design headed in 2024?
One of the biggest opportunities for interior design in the coming year will be the integration of AI within the design process. AI holds vast potential as a valuable tool for designers and can be utilities to enhance systems that have gained popularity in recent years, such as virtual reality and augmented reality. These technologies will help clients to greater understand proposed designs, enabling them to make more informed decisions. Additionaly, AI can contribute to achieving climate targets by enabling designers to assess environmental impacts of design choices.
What work you have completed in the past year will best stand the test of time?
The National Manufacturing Institute Scotland project was meticulously crafted to adapt and flourish alongside its occupants, embracing new technologies and innovations as they emerge. The interior design of the spaces offers customisable areas that users can easily modify for meetings or adjust for long-term project needs. With a focus on biophilia rather than fleeting trends, the design provides a natural backdrop allowing the NMIS brand to take centre stage. Both loose and fixed furniture elements were sustainably designed, employing high quality materials to ensure longevity throughout the builidngs natural life cycle.
What would you say to anyone considering a career in Interior Design?
I have been very fortunate to collaborate closely with both the City of Glasgow and West College Scotland interior design students, witnessing thier striking passion for design, which should always be encouraged above all else. Interior designers must not only embrace creativity but also delve into the minds of their clients to maximise design success. Pursuing education and hands-on expreience is crucial, as is staying updated on indutry trends and technologies to remain competitive. Seek mentorship opportunities wherever possible to gain insight and guidance. But remeber, Interior design is a field of constant evolution. Offering boundless opportunities for growth and innovation.
