Ali and Alex both studied at the renowned Chelsea KLC School of Design before setting up Otta Design in 2014. They tell us how they approach their projects.
How would you describe your interiors style?
Every project we take on is unique, as our goal is to create a home that reflects the personality and style of our clients. We give them the confidence to embrace colour and pattern to create timeless interiors that mix old and new, comfort and practicality.
How do you use antiques in your projects?
Antiques are a crucial part of a scheme as they create a layered interior and a point of interest. They also make the room feel more timeless and lived in, a proper home with soul. A lot of our clients already have antiques and we love combining these with more modern pieces, whether this be contemporary art or a coloured lacquered side board. If everything is new the room can feel quite flat.
What do you love most about sourcing antiques?
Sourcing antiques is like going on an adventure, you never know what you will find and invariably you end up falling in love with something that you don’t always need. There are some wonderful online antique sites like Zebra Homeware, or if you have more time on your hands you can spend hours in the antique shops in Tetbury or Petworth or antiques fairs like Ardingly and Sunbury. There is nothing more exciting than finding that perfect piece for your client’s scheme.
What does home mean to you?
With everything going on in the world, home is an important place where one can relax, unwind and enjoy family and friends. Decoration is important as it reflects our identity and character. It shouldn’t be a show home, instead it should be a place where you feel comfortable mixing family hand-me-downs with new pieces that are personal to you.
Photography by Jonathan Bond
