An interior by Brian Conlon
May 25, 2009
Hilda Allen sites down with Architectural and Interior Design Consultant Brian Conlon about one of his recent projects.
Tell me a little about your background - what did you study and what path led you to what you’re doing now?
I originally studied for a BA in Electronic Engineering, however after working in the industry for a few years I decided to do some traveling after which I returned to college part time to do a BA Interior Architecture and Design. I always felt drawn to Architecture in some way hence the reason I ultimately decided to return to college. I worked for a few years with a number of Architectural and construction practices in Dublin and have been working as an Architectural and Interior Design Consultant for the last year. Many people are finding themselves in the position of not being able to sell their properties and ‘upgrade’ as they would like. Therefore they find themselves upgrading their current property into the type of home they always imagined buying from someone else. This is where I come in. Most of my work would be residential however there is quite a bit of commercial work out there too.
What would be your recommendation for "what to do first" for a first time buyer?
Well in terms of the fit-out of a property for a first time buyer generally the budget is the number one concern. Invest in good floors. After that I’m a great believer in lists! Logic and organisation are key. I would suggest making a list of the necessary items required for the big move. The most important thing to remember is that the little things really add up so it’s important to include everything in the budget from the word go. Once the list has been made the budget should be apportioned accordingly.
What was the most difficult part of the project?
I had the timescales well organised so that when one tradesman was finished another was booked etc. The pressure is generally taken off the more organised you are however it is important to stay in touch with your tradesmen and keep them aware of progress so that they know a start date may vary a day or two either side of the predicted date.
What advice do you have for someone with a new house and perhaps a limited budget?
Again it comes back to the list. On a limited budget however I would certainly advise that an individual only buy the necessities, i.e.. the larger items. The smaller and more cosmetic pieces can follow. Your inspiration for what you’d like to achieve within a space tends to evolve as you become more used to it therefore it‘s sometimes good to live in the space for a while before adding the finishing touches to your design. Function plays a major part especially in a smaller home.
Where did you find your inspiration?
My inspiration came from the traditional idea of each home having a hearth. For this particular project I wanted to create a greater sense of space, functionality and also a focal point. It’s my view that too many smaller apartments are being built without a focal point or main feature so priority number one for me was to create my own feature.
What are your favorite things about this project? What are you most proud of professionally?
For this project it would definitely be the feature ‘chimney breast’. In this case I moved the heater which was originally in the path of the now ‘chimney breast’. In general these cosmetic moves can be achieved with relative ease. Once the wall was cleared of all obstructions I had a stud partition built to house all the electrical cabling and TV points, then clad the partition in the same walnut flooring that is used throughout. Apart from the chimney breast being a feature, functionality is key. It houses a multitude; tv, dvd, wires, electric fire, modem and display shelving etc.
Professionally I pride myself on meeting the clients needs in terms of their brief. People have many differing and varying tastes, it’s vital to take these on board when trying to create something for the client as opposed to creating it for yourself.
What do you think are some of the common mistakes made by homeowners? Have you any advice on how to avoid those mistakes?
I think where people inadvertently fall down is in categorising the functionality of a particular space or room and how it relates to the adjoining spaces. Most people don’t see the potential they have in their own homes, e.g.. it's quite easy to create open plan living in a house where it was never intended. By the same token e.g. if a room happens to be used as a bedroom it doesn't mean it couldn't be a great dining room or dressing room or ensuite etc. Its function can always be changed. It just takes a little creativity and imagination. My advice is if you can't see the potential employ someone to give you some insight into the options which may actually be open to you.
How would you describe your artistic style for this project?
I selected a minimalist style for this project. It has a neutral base colour scheme that can be changed or enhanced with the simple addition of splashes of brighter or different colours. These additions may be in the form of a rug, canvas, wall art, cushions, curtains, light fittings etc.
Which designers, artists or creative people you look up to or are inspired by?
The great Irish designer Eileen Gray is certainly a source of inspiration. She is famous for her design of functional items and I try to remember these principles in my own work. Another famous Swiss-French Architect Le Corbusier who’s famous for what’s now called ‘Modern Architecture’ is one of my favourite. His clean lines and ‘better living standards’ approach was well before his time.
Do you prefer to work with certain materials, colours ?
Natural materials are always a favourite but budget doesn’t always allow. I think it’s always good to start with a neutral colour base and work your way up. Experiment with colours through accessories and when you've decided on a design path in terms of colour you can afford to be more daring.
What trends are you most excited about at the moment?
Trends aren’t something I generally follow. I feel it’s very much down to the individuals taste. Design is very subjective, there will always be critics.
Many people like the idea of updating their interiors for the seasons. What techniques do you use to transition your home from winter into spring/summer?
Accessory changes can be very effective. Pick a vibrant colour you like and work it into the room in the form of curtains, cushions, pillows, rugs or canvases, all of which can be done on a very small budget. You could take a feature wall and paint it with a vibrant colour. Walls that catch the sun are best. Also the introduction of flowers in a living space can bring the season into the room.
What decorating techniques/ideas/projects would you recommend to a homeowner who wants to rev up the look of a bedroom or living room for Spring, without spending a fortune?
Accessories are the best change someone can make to their room in an inexpensive way. Bedding, pillows, cushions etc make a huge difference. Also if a room is cluttered give it a good clear out and even reorganise the furniture. This can completely revitalise a space.
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