The Importance of Interior Design by Michael Fenimore, Partner/Managing Director, Fenimore Rosenberg Kolb Ltd
The Biggest mistake that most people make when trying to design their own Caribbean residence is…Doing it themselves! Since the clients are comfortable with what they know, eventually they’re just reciting the same thing that they are familiar with. They can’t produce the unexpected because the ideas are coming from within.
As architects and designers we do keep in mind that it is not our space; part of the definition of what we do as architects and designers is to create an environment for other people with those people in mind. While the architect/designers work should reflect their expertise, it’s also about the collaboration between the designer and their clients to create something exactly right for them.
The order we follow as architects is…first we visit the site and really take it all in, it’s all about observation. We observe the lay of the land (its topography), the views the lot offers, the natural vegetation (trees, brush etc.), predominant wind direction and the passage of the sun. All of these factors and more will assist us in the best possible placement of a structure as well as the placement of all of its door and window openings, terraces etc. We also incorporate all of this information to best suit the clients personal needs and desires when laying out the structures’ floor plan, traffic flow and space allocations. Every bit of this information down to the last detail is then drawn into construction documents, material, hardware and equipment schedules and mechanical, electrical, structural and civil engineering drawings for the purpose of obtaining building permits and of course to be handed to a reputable contractor to be erected.
The order we follow when designing is…we consult with the floor plans and look at the circulation. We start thinking about how you will use the space; is it going to be used solely for the family and friends or does the space have to brace for the abuse of short term rental traffic? We do this in scale drawings and then create an ideal layout. Then we start specifying the look we want – maybe a light and airy house on the beach with wood with natural oiled finishes in matte accents and muted cool jewel toned textiles. The placement and location of furniture is as crucial as the specification of materials. Once we have all of the selections solidified we undertake the arduous task of preparing specifications, placing, tracking, consolidating, shipping and installing the entire furniture package. What we like to call turn key service.
“Architecture should dictate your style choices, form following function…”
“Every home must have a heart and soul but above all practicality. It must reflect the personality of the owner and be calm and serene underneath all the décor.”
“There are many rules designers should bear in mind. One is…knowing when to break them.”
“Every home must have …Comfortable living spaces. This is the most important element of successful design. Groupings of furniture should be cozy and functional; “Comfort is the ultimate luxury”
“When choosing wall colors and accents it is best to take you cues from your surroundings; Color can give you a dramatic effect whether it is subtle or exciting it sets the backdrop for objects you choose to fill you home with.”
“We suggest using simple, humble objects that have great form to them; certain driftwood, sea fans and shells for instance; treasures Found while beach combing.”
“Traditional island design elements in architecture have withstood the test of time. They are as practical today as they were centuries ago.”
Michael Fenimore, Partner/Managing Director, Fenimore Rosenberg Kolb Ltd.
