Spotlight: Audi Snÿman Interior Design

Audi Snÿman has been transforming homes, boutique hotels, lodges, private dwellings and corporate working environments into beautiful spaces to live, work and play for over two decades. We chatted to this experienced interior designer about what it means to be a good designer and what inspires her to keep creating.

What would you consider ‘good design’?

A good interior designer will balance the detail while still keeping their eyes on the big picture. Perfection is a series of small things done really well. So the designer and client need to keep their “eyes on the prize”. Good design embodies the clients’ dream and the interior designer’s expertise.

Why use a designer and what does a designer add to the process?

We use a designer in the same way we go to a doctor or lawyer if we need additional help, we go to the professionals to get it right the first time!

Professional interior design planning saves costs in the long term. Cleverly thought through processes with the designer will utilise space and products efficiently and effectively to ultimately bring the client’s dream home to life and create a space that brings joy and pride to the homeowners.

How do you combine beauty and function into your interiors that you create?

It’s all about proper planning from the get-go. I spend a lot of time with my clients, get to know and understand their lifestyle, their needs and the nice to haves. I then get to work drawing up proposals and renderings that will service their ideals. It’s a fine balancing act: the essentials and the top-ups; and crucial to all of this is planning!

What inspires you and drives your design decisions?

The client’s aspirations for affordable luxury, needs, nice to haves and “dreams to come true” within their budget. I am passionate about planning and quality.

What do you see for the future of design?

Clever, yet functional designs, sustainability and respect for conservation will play big roles going forward, as well as upcycling where possible. These culminate in quality homes with invested interiors. We all need to do our bit for the planet and the future of mankind.

What are you working on at the moment?

Modern and Luxurious private residences.

What is your favourite project?

I have many favourite projects – I’ve done gorgeous palatial homes, modern residences, boutique hotels, exquisite game lodges, I’ve dabbled in corporate and even a day clinic!

What field of design are you most interested in?

Modern contemporary with a playful classical edge for sustainability.

What is your favourite book/magazine on design?

I’m a big fan of South African-born Kelly Hoppen and collect her books. She’s an inspiration to our industry.

What is more important, aesthetics or functionality?

Functionality – you can design it to be aesthetically pleasing as well. Never compromise on functionality, in the long term it is wise to invest in ensuring your project is practical and geared for ease of use. Seeing my clients happy with the end result gives me such joy and gratitude. I started my career as a microbiologist, which gave me little satisfaction; ten years into science and I switched gears completely and started living my dream; and what a great ride it has been!

A place you visit to unwind in Africa?

Nature – coastal areas or the bushveld.

Your favourite restaurant?

Twelve Apostles in Cape Town.

Awards you have won?

Shortlisted in three categories of the International Design & Architecture Awards in the UK. We submitted entries into three categories and were shortlisted in all three, so we eagerly await the voting process later this year!