StyleNest chat to Martin Waller of Andrew Martin dubbed the “Indiana Jones of Interior Design” and get the inside on all things interiors.
You first co-founded the Andrew Martin brand in 1978. Were you always interested in interiors? What was your background?
My first job when I left school was working at Peter Jones, and from this I always loved the theatre of shops. I was particularly inspired by Big Biba in Kensington High Street, which I think even today sets the standard for magic in retailing. This led to my passion in interiors.
During your career you have worked on some incredible projects, including the James Bond set designs. What has been your ultimate achievement?
I’m proud of all the work we’ve done with movies from Bond to Gladiator to Lara Croft and Harry Potter. I always enjoy creating iconic pieces for design schemes – I’ve just built a full scale replica of Apollo 11 for an office in Kings Cross.
What celebrity home would you most love to style?
Kubla Khan – when stately pleasure domes did decree – would have been a great client!
How important is travel to the Andrew Martin brand and ethos?
I’ve always been influenced by far flung cultures and the histories of people. The whole tapestry of cultures is one of the enduring fascinations of the world and is the basis of my wallpapers and fabrics. Through a rich mix of elements, we reflect a global assortment of influences at Andrew Martin.
You have been coined as a global nomad, is there anywhere you haven’t travelled to?
Lots of parts of Scotland – particularly the islands are where I’d love to go to.
Where is your favourite destination for inspiration?
Mirador, the lost city in the jungles of Guatemala – the Mayan people had this astonishing textile heritage and the legacy of the culture can still be seen in the handwoven textiles of today.
What tips would you give our readers who want to get a designer home on a budget?
Paint the walls darker than you intend. Really think about the paint colour and find a fabric you really love for one cushion.
What advice would you give our readers who are decorating their first home?
Only buy things you really love.
What interior trends will we see emerging this season?
Much more colour, neon – graffiti – 1970s reruns. Starsky & Hutch are our design heroes. Kojak is another.
We’ve seen some huge trends emerge over the past few seasons with a resurgence of copper and gold. Any tips on how to incorporate trend pieces with staple furnishings to help your house always feel like a current home?
Accessories – be like the church and only have gold in the chalices.
When you’re not busy working, what do you do to unwind and relax?
Old cultures and young minds.
Your flagship store is in the heart of London. Do you have any favourite spots to eat/drink/shop?
When I was a small boy I was taken to tea at Fortnums and I still think it is a great treat to go there. V&A has a wonderful café. Shopping at Christies.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
Jim Thompson – father of Thai Silk
What’s your motto?
Design the difference.
Any style faux pas?
When I was 16 I painted my bedroom purple and only now it’s colour of the year.