My Design: If she can't find it, she finds someone to make it

What do you design?

Interior spaces and the different elements required to give it the "wow" factor. If I can't find what I'm looking for, I design it and find someone to make it. Whether it is the shape of a ceiling, the colour of flooring, a piece of furniture, an interesting feature, a piece of decorative art, or a huge chandelier, you name it, I'm up for it.How did you begin your career?

I started designing and creating items in Greyton at the age of 18. I focused on interior design only once I had project managed the building of our house and realised I had a passion for creating different spaces.

What does creativity mean to you?

The ability to be inventive in fulfilling a task with the given resources, materials and time at hand.

Who is your ultimate creative hero?

I get inspired by so many people: street artists, a jeweller at a morning market, Gaudi, and acclaimed designers like Patricia Urquiola, Javier Miscall and Tord Boontje. My mother always played a significant role too.

What is the most coveted item in your wardrobe?

My purple leather cowboy boots.

If you could live in any decade, which one would it be and why?

The '60s. I guess I'm a bit of a hippie.

If you could have your dream client, who would it be?

I had my dream client recently on my last project, for Views Boutique Hotel & Spa. I was given the ultimate creative freedom, faith and support.

If you were given one wish, what would it be?

To finally find that ideal house or property we can renovate or build on again.

Are you persuaded by packaging or is it what's inside that counts?

I always find the package interesting and though I can appreciate it, it's really what's inside that ultimately counts for me. If it's a gift for someone, I'm more likely to be persuaded by packaging. I have also been known to buy wine according to the label.

What's the next big thing in design?

I'm not really that influenced by what's in or not. But the ongoing search for inventive, creative and exciting ways to incorporate and encourage green/eco-friendly elements in design will play an even bigger role this year.

Which piece of work are you most proud of?

I conceptualised and designed a "man- made aquarium" that consisted of more than 1000 meticulously handcrafted schools of crystal glass fish, "swimming" in a space almost four stories high. With the help of LED lighting, sounds of the ocean and even a coral bed, the installation makes for a surreal experience.

What's your favourite destination?

In SA, my family farm, Bloemenkraal, near Greyton in the Overberg. The large Sonderend mountains ground me and there are memories everywhere. Abroad, New Zealand, especially Queenstown. The minute I set foot in the country, I felt a strong connection.

What do you think of the SA design industry, the talent, the opportunities and consumers?

I love the diversity SA offers. Inspiration can be drawn from the natural surroundings to the creative and colourful townships. Local consumers have become more open- minded. The country's potential keeps growing as our confidence is reassured through global recognition.

Time Live | By Andrea Nagel