Port Calls Imraan Ismail
In the first of our Port Calls interview series we catch up with the talent behind our interiors, Interior Architect Imraan Ismail to chat about the inspiration behind the design at Port Hotel, the people and places that inspire him and he shares his go-to spot for a picnic in the East Sussex countryside.
Over to Imraan…
What was your inspiration for the restaurant and bar area at Port Hotel?
The restaurant/bar interior was inspired by the breathtakingly beautiful surrounding coastal landscape. We wanted to create a calming environment that would mirror the beauty of the hotel surrounds. The hotel colour palette, for example, is inspired by the monochromatic tones of the pebbled beach and the soft pinkish hue that bounces off the sea at sunset.
What was your inspiration for the bedrooms at Port Hotel?
As with the ground floor, we took inspiration from the beautiful Eastbourne surrounds. For example, the round brass bedside tables found in all the bedrooms pay tribute to the brass detailing found on the famous Eastbourne Pier dome.
How much does outdoor connection inspire your interior designs?
To a very large degree – design does not exist in a vacuum and I think it would be a disservice to not take cognisance of the surroundings – from the landscape, to the architecture etc.
What is your starting point when designing a space?
I obtain a very clear detailed brief from the client. My objective is always to work as closely as possible with the client to help them achieve their vision of the space and this would be near impossible without having a complete understanding and appreciation of the clients wants, needs, like and dislikes.
What stage of the design process do you enjoy the most?
As an interior architect, I enjoy the challenge of interior spatial re-organisation which often involves reconfiguring the structural interiors. It is important to design spaces that not only have an aesthetic appeal, but which are also importantly, functionally ergonomic.
“I don’t have signature style per se. I would describe my design style as eclectic, functional and layered. I curate my interiors – a true labour of love.”
What type of room do you most enjoy designing?
Designing bedrooms throws up some interesting challenges. The key is to always create a private calm restful space. We try to achieve this through our use of colour palette, soft furnishings, window treatments etc. Bedrooms today are more than just for sleeping - clients spend time relaxing, reading and working so it’s important to factor this into the design. For example, in our Port Hotel project, we provided some comfortable chairs, a desk or table with some soft finishes to create warm welcoming bedrooms that both functional and also offer more than just a good nights’ sleep.
How much have your travels inspired your designs?
I have been lucky to have travelled extensively and have lived across 3 continents. The designer I am today is very much a culmination of my life experiences over the years. I personally have lived in a house, a flat and on farm in rural Africa. Every destination has something to offer – inspiration is everywhere if you look!
Pre-Pandemic I found myself on the streets of Lisbon on a walking gastronomic tour. The colours of this port town were joyful to behold, and I took much inspiration from the local architecture and found local artisans offering up some intricate handmade interior accessories which one just had to buy.
What or who are your design influences?
I am huge fan of the 1920’s Art Deco movement. I love the romanticism of the era which was a true celebration of luxury, glamour, and exuberance.
I enjoy the work of so many talented design professionals but if I had to choose one, I would say the late David Collins, founder of London based, David Collins Studios. His work especially in hospitality was ground-breaking at the time. People often flocked to spaces he designed just to soak in the beautiful spaces and ambience he managed to create.
Do you have a favourite area at Port, whether it be a particularly vignette, room or detail?
The headboard detail with marble cut outs. The lounge area shelving showcasing pottery by local artist, Karen Peters, and the soft pinkish light emanating from the backlit onyx disc bar detail which creates a warm welcoming ambience and atmosphere.
Can you share any must-visit places or spaces in and around Eastbourne?
Every trip down has been for work, but I did an afternoon picnic at Rathfinny Wine Estate recently which was special.
To see more of Imraans’s work follow him on Instagram @iiinteriors.
With thanks to Emma Croman for the photography.