Hannah Sidley
Founder & Director, Cream & Black Interior DesignDo you have a signature design style?
My work has a transitional style which blends traditional influences with a modern design approach, creating interiors that will stand the test of time and still look beautiful in years to come.
What or from where is your main source of inspiration?
I take inspiration from many places. I’m particularly influenced by hotels; I love looking at all the little details. Hotels are full of creative influences, from bathroom to bedroom design to amazing entrance lobbies. I love travelling and finding new and interesting places to stay.
What current interior design trends have you taken note of?
I’m not a big believer in trends. Instead, I strongly believe that interiors should be as timeless as possible without being bland. However, I have seen natural developments with finished and colour palettes, including the move away from chrome to more established warmer metals such as Nickel, Bronze and Antique Brass.
Why do you choose to work with Bagnodesign for your projects?
As a designer the relationship I have with trusted suppliers are really important. I love working with other professionals who are as passionate about their trade as we are about ours. Excellent communication and efficiency is key for successful project execution and that’s the service we get from Bagnodesign. Of course, the comprehensive collections and different finishes are amazing. It makes it easier for us to create unique spaces infused with personality for our clients – and all from one supplier.
Interiors should be as timeless as possible without being bland.
What pointers can you share on how to ensure a room will stand the test of time?
It’s all about creating a sense of balance and order. Our interiors are designed to complement the architecture of the building. Natural materials such as bamboo, river rock, marble, quartz and hard woods are timeless and rarely date, and they also create a feeling of luxury without having the luxury price tag. When it comes to hard finishes such as flooring and wall tiles, be mindful as these cover large surfaces and need to complement other key design elements incorporated into the space.
What is the one element that can make or break the design of a space?
Lighting, without a doubt. The number one cause of feeling that a room is under-decorated and has an ‘unloved’ feel to it is down to the lighting. The fact that bathrooms do not always receive natural light is no excuse for bad lighting as there are numerous fantastic artificial lighting options that can be used to create bright and inviting spaces. When you’re designing a lighting plan, you need to take into account that bathroom lighting tends to fall into three categories – Practical, Task and Decorative – which you need to ensure are catered for. It’s so important because getting the lighting right can change a space completely.
Lighting The Three Essentials
Practical Lighting
Down lights are highly practical. They work to illuminate every area and create a fresh clean palette.
Task Lighting
Task lights should be integrated into a mirror or directly over the shower. When deciding on placement, it’s important to note that the light needs to hit the work area from the front – for example, lighting over the mirror is impractical as it distorts the face and impairs visibility.
Decorative Lighting
Sconce lighting diverts attention to the details you want to highlight in a room, such as an accent wall or hardwood panelling. Integrated LEDs create a warm glow that helps to ‘lift’ large pieces of fitted joinery.
