GLE Interior Architecture Studio: For A Great Lifestyle Experience

GLE Interior Architecture Studio is a leading African studio based in Sandton, South Africa. Since its incorporation in 2013, GLE has designed residential and commercial spaces in South Africa, Nigeria and Zambia. The results are aligned with the business name – GLE – ‘Great Lifestyle Experience’. Today we speak to the team about their design inspirations and how the brand continues to evolve.

What drives your design decisions in your own interior space? Can you tell us about your personal design philosophy?

Eclecticism with a Foundation, I embrace a diverse range of visual elements, including art, textures, and antiques, while grounding my design in the foundational principles of Neo-classic style. This approach allows for a harmonious blend of old and new, creating a timeless and sophisticated living space.

Visual stimulation and art curation place a strong emphasis on creating visually stimulating space that celebrates art, both as standalone pieces and as integrated components of the overall interior design. Texture as a Multi-Sensory Element, I Incorporate diverse textures to engage not only the visual sense but also the tactile experience within your space. This could involve the use of varied materials such as fabrics, woods, metals, and stones to add depth and character to my interior space. Embracing Antiques and Timeless Pieces; I Integrate antiques and timeless elements into my space to infuse my space with a sense of history, character, and craftsmanship. This involves showcasing unique, storied pieces that contribute to the narrative of your interior space.

How would you describe the predominant style or theme that runs throughout your own interior? What elements define it?

I would say neo classical elegance is the predominant theme celebrating the grandeur of heritage and Victorian furniture, using it as a focal point to define the character of my space.

Are there any significant inspirations from your own interior that you have applied in your professional practice? Could you share specific examples?

I have incorporated two classic hooded Porters chairs in a very contemporary interior which elevated the room, infusing it with a contrasting elegance. The juxtaposition of the traditional and contemporary styles creates a dynamic and visually compelling atmosphere, adding a unique charm to the space. The classic chairs serve as striking focal points, while seamlessly blending with the modern surroundings, resulting in a sophisticated and captivating interior design.

When it comes to designing your own space, do you prioritize aestheticism or functionality, and why?

As an interior designer designing my own space, the balance between aestheticism and functionality is crucial. While aesthetic appeal is important for creating a visually pleasing environment, functionality is equally essential to ensure that the space serves its intended purpose effectively. Prioritising functionality ensures that the space is practical and comfortable, meeting your specific needs and lifestyle. However, aestheticism plays a significant role in reflecting your personal style and creating a visually stimulating environment. Striking a balance between the two ensures that your space is both beautiful and practical, ultimately enhancing your overall living experience.

Which section or room in your personal interior are you most proud of, and what does it reflect about you as an interior designer?

My home studio holds such personal significance and serves as a source of pride for me. When a space reflects one’s passion and personality, it becomes more than just an interior—it becomes an extension of oneself. The fact that my studio not only embodies my essence but also fuels my creativity is a testament to the successful fusion of aestheticism and functionality. My studio has been thoughtfully designed to inspire and support my creative endeavors, and its ability to continually awe me speaks volumes about its impact to my work and well-being.

Have you ever faced a situation where you fell behind schedule or encountered unexpected challenges in a project? How did you handle it and make things right?

Yes in the course of our projects, we have encountered instances where we fell behind schedule, necessitating the re-scheduling and updating of the program of works. To address these challenges and maintain transparency with our clients, we have implemented regular project checkpoints, where milestones and obstacles are openly discussed. By actively engaging our clients through these project updates, we demonstrate our commitment to managing their expectations and fostering open communication. This proactive approach not only helps us to address issues as they arise but also allows us to navigate potential challenges before they become major setbacks, ultimately ensuring the successful completion of our projects and the satisfaction of our clients.

In our commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes, we understand the importance of maintaining open lines of communication with our clients, particularly in the face of unexpected hurdles. By consistently engaging with our clients and providing them with regular updates on the project’s progress, we are able to address any concerns or potential disruptions in a proactive manner. This approach not only allows us to keep our clients informed and involved but also enables us to work collaboratively to overcome any obstacles that may arise. By prioritising transparency and client engagement, we can effectively navigate project complexities and ensure that our clients feel confident in our ability to deliver exceptional results, even in the face of unforeseen challenges.

Can you describe the workspace where you work every day? What features or elements in your workspace help you stay creative and productive?

In our daily operations, our open-plan workshop serves as the dynamic hub where every GLE team member collaborates closely with one another. This environment has been intentionally crafted to foster a culture of openness and creativity, enabling us to work together seamlessly throughout the day. Within this shared space, we not only design and create beautiful interior spaces but also manage intricate projects and oversee the day-to-day operations of GLE. The interconnectedness of our workspace reflects our commitment to synergy, enabling us to leverage our collective strengths and expertise in a unified effort to deliver outstanding results.

What do you appreciate the most about it in terms of design and lifestyle?

By coexisting within a single, open-plan workshop, we have cultivated an environment that encourages the free flow of ideas and innovation. This setup allows for constant interaction and exchange of knowledge, ultimately enhancing our ability to tackle complex projects with agility and creativity. Whether it’s brainstorming design concepts, coordinating project logistics, or managing the operational aspects of GLE, our collaborative workspace serves as the epicenter of our collective endeavors, embodying the spirit of teamwork and shared purpose that defines our approach to interior design and project management.

What is your favourite room in your own home?

My Home Studio

If you were hosting friends and family for dinner, how would you set the table? What elements would you incorporate to create a memorable dining experience?

I would integrate classic pieces like the Crystal and Royal Albert’s Lady Hamilton or Celebration Dinner Set with modern elements to craft visually layered sophistication demonstrates a thoughtful approach to entertaining. I would adapt the table settings to reflect the season and mood to evoke a sense of harmony and refinement that enhances the overall dining atmosphere.

Incorporating seasonal florals such as peonies and Carnations adds a delightful touch of natural beauty to the table, further enhancing the visual appeal and creating a captivating ambiance for my guests. My attention to detail and ability to curate a dining experience that reflects both elegance and individuality truly exemplifies the art of gracious entertaining.

Where do you find your current sources of inspiration for your interior design spaces?

I collet books, especially Furniture, Antiques, Design and Décor Books, I find many years of precedent studies and I travel a lot, I am obsessed with hotel lobbies, I document what I visually take in every time and as an Architecture Student, the study has taught me to look deeper in to structure and space around me,  our everyday environment is layered with design and each element has a depth to it which has a history and culture, it is an endless fountain of inspiration.

Can you describe your favourite style, texture, and colour that you have used throughout your personal space, and why do you love them?

A neutral palette paired with the timeless elegance of Neo-classic style sets the stage for a sophisticated interior that exudes refinement. Embracing what designer Corey Damen Jenkins refers to as “Design Remix,” this approach involves artfully blending traditional elements with contemporary influences to create a harmonious and visually compelling space. In this design ethos, layered textures and textiles play a pivotal role, adding depth and tactile interest to the environment. Smooth velvets and intricately woven fabrics take center stage, infusing the space with a sense of luxury and tactile warmth that is synonymous with Neo-classic design.

The interplay of textures, from the sumptuous softness of velvet to the intricate weaves of textiles, creates a dynamic visual and sensory experience. This approach not only elevates the aesthetic appeal of the space but also imbues it with a sense of timeless sophistication. The juxtaposition of classic and contemporary elements, coupled with the mastery of texture, results in an interior that is at once inviting and refined, reflecting a keen appreciation for the art of design remix and the enduring allure of Neo-classic style.

Any collaborations and project you are working on?

In 2023 December we are wrapping up Waterfall, Bryanston, and Eye of Africa Residencial Projects. We are working on a new Hotel in Limpopo, full turnkey project which is set to begin in the second quarter of 2024, We are completing two residential projects in Zambia (Lusaka and Ndola), two new restaurants in Fourways in 2024 and many turnkey residential projects in Limpopo province.  We will be launching our art curating Gallery  as the demand to curate Art Collections for our clients is increasing.

You also might like.

Contact: GLE Interior Architecture Studio