Ivan Meade is the principal designer and founder of the Vancouver Island based multidisciplinary design firm, Meade Design Group Inc. Ivan has created an award-winning studio and design firm that provides clients with leading design solutions, specialising in both graphic and interior design. He has worked all around the World, including Canada, The United States of America, Europe, Mexico, Australia and beyond. Ivan creates elegant interiors that reflect personality and purpose. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Ivan Meade.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
My personal aesthetic is overall timeless, but with a sophisticated, modern edge. One of my fundamental design mantras is a phrase that mother would often use; ‘Find luxury in what you touch everyday’ - Use quality within your means.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
I like to resolve the function of the space first. Once we have a floor plan that works, we move to the design elements of the space. I try to create rooms that are memorable, so I always strive to create something will stick with anyone viewing the space.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
As the principal designer of a multidisciplinary design studio, I have had the opportunity to work with many talented designers; but I would have to say that Michelle Morelan is at the top of my list – She is a very talented interior designer that produces the most amazing hand drawn sketches of interiors. We helped her to develop her brand identity, designed her website and her stationery package. The whole process was a lot of fun because I understand her needs as an interior designer, but I was able to provide clear direction as a graphic designer. She has done some of the most amazing sketches for my clients. Her talent is out of this world.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
Inspiration always comes from a very random place. It can be nature, an architectural moment in the space, a fabric, a line. I just let the room speak and I just listen very carefully to come up with the concepts. The client’s personality is also a very important element to consider, as they will be living in the space. Their personal taste always influences the designs.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
This is a great question. I have to say that my passion is design. I live and breathe design 24 hrs a day. On top of that, I have 20 years of experience in the field. Things don’t happen quickly. Lots of patience, but as I have said before, when people said I wouldn’t be able to do it, I saw that as their limitations, not mine. You can only put limitations on yourself. I just don’t see limits. People say you live on an island, how are you going to expand? But I have clients in Costa Rica, Mexico, Australia, Edmonton, Calgary. We’re global now, we have to embrace this, there are no limits.
