Designer insights with Christine Martin

Christine Martin is creative designer at Decorilla, an online platform for exploring moods and design concepts. Christine has had a varied career working as teacher then interior designer. She is dedicated to the power of colour, texture and natural design elements to bring a space to life. She holds a Certificate in Interior Design & Architecture from Limperts Academy of Design and a Masters from the State University of New York. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Christine Martin.

Designer Insights - Christine Martin

- Transcript - 

1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?

My creative aesthetic stems from varied aspects of my personality. Nature, travel, and an affinity for change influences my style. These elements tend to create an eclectic spirit in my interiors through color, texture, and pattern.

2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?

After carefully reading a client brief to assess style + needs, I look for inspirational images/ideas online. I try to be the client for a while. Drawing up a floor plan also helps me by virtually moving furniture pieces and accessories around until I have a layout that is pleasing.

3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?

Heather Smith is a young, fresh textile designer from London whose company Passa Paa emerged in Luang Prabang, Laos. She brilliantly merges bold geometric patterns of traditional Hmong batiks and embroidery and with her own experimental screen print techniques. The result is an urban-minded collection of accessories. I had the privilege of helping in the design of her boutique. Working in this creative environment confirmed my love of design evolution that pays homage to historical, global influences.

4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?

Go for a run. Breathing fresh air, making my blood pump, stepping away from man-made stimuli is my formula for creativity to emerge. The experience uses all of me: body, spirit, mind, resulting in inspired action.

5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?

Trust and taking a risk on something. When I made a career shift into interior design, I had all the normal responses: fear, doubt, worry. But, I knew I loved design and just trusted that passion would translate. Once Decorilla asked me to join the founding team, to help develop an idea I believed in, I jumped on board knowing the risk, but embracing the journey. I’ve never regretted it!