Nathalie is the Co-Founder and Principal Designer of Atelier Cachet, an award winning, multidisciplinary design firm that builds Modern, Luxe Estates and Designs Couture interiors. Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc) I am very passionate and have a creative mind; I imagine and create. Design is a visual and expressing language for me. It’s my way of seeing. My way of relating and connecting with the world. I strive to create couture interiors that captivate and move. With the demonstration of my body of work, I have been featured in numerous International prestigious publications and have received International recognition with distinctive design awards. I graduated with honours in interior architecture and design. I believe that every project has its own unique set of challenges and solutions, worthy of a creative cutting-edge contemporary design. We approach each project with a fresh vision, focussed passion and commitment to outstanding service. How would you describe your personal interior design style? My interior design style is authentic, I am known for my sleek, design-forward, couture interiors. My chic and fearless designs move along asymmetrical lines. The colour grey. I use it everywhere. It’s the most neutral colour. I love white because it feels bright, clean and pure but I feel more powerful with black. Black grounds everything and I will use a little punch of colour here and there. One design element is always a punch of colour. I love to inspire and enrich my client’s lives by creating comfortable environments with a unique character. Where does your design inspiration come from? My design inspiration is driven by everything I see, touch, hear, imagine and feel. I absorb inspiration from all dimensions. Such as cars, architecture,
76 The World’s Leading Design Names
music, art, nature and fashion. I’m inspired by beautiful architectural spaces that changes the way we see things and ourselves. It could be a choreography that speaks volume and takes my breath away. A ‘wow’ moment! In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense? We are in an ever-progressing world where design is constantly evolving. I think we are moving towards a major shift in design history. Design and technology will increasingly be aligned to create better environments and provide meaningful engagement that will simplify our lives. Design will be more individualised with a sense of beauty, freedom expression and well-being. Creating interiors with a deeper understanding of how people experience a space will become more significant. How important are The Design Awards as recognition of talent and achievement? The International Design & Architecture awards recognise excellence on a global scale, highlight the importance of design for business and society. They are a group that recognise, celebrate, promote design visionaries, and emerging talents. It’s also an opportunity to showcase the latest development in design, encourage mind creativity and inspire the next generation. Final thoughts – tell us a little more about yourself... Your most treasured possession? Individuality. By embracing authenticity and being true to myself and my brand. Everyone is unique, and everyone is special, find your rhythm. Value your individuality, develop it and cherish it with the world.