Martin Brudnizki

WHAT INSPIRES YOU MOST?

Working with enthusiastic clients is always inspiring as it makes each project a new experience. It’s invigorating when a client has a story to tell as this brings so many interesting dimensions to a project.

HOW IMPORTANT IS COLLABORATION AND WHO HAVE YOU ENJOYED WORKING WITH MOST?

Collaboration is absolutely essential. If you are going to create the client’s dream space you have to understand their wishes and aspirations, which will allow you to create the best atmosphere conducive to their needs. I’ve enjoyed working with many people, but projects with Nick Jones at Soho House always spring to mind as fantastic and challenging experiences.

HOW IMPORTANT IS A SENSE OF HISTORY IN YOUR DESIGNS?

History is important where relevant. My designs are heavily influenced by a careful consideration of the context of the space. I will look at the building, the street, the neighbourhood and the city in order to understand how these external factors would influence the interior, juxtaposed with the client’s brief. This allows me to create designs that sit comfortably within their surroundings. The sense of history should never be forced. I find that if the space or building has a story to tell it will come through naturally.

WHO DO YOU ADMIRE MOST IN THE FIELD OF HOSPITALITY DESIGN?

I admire many people within the hospitality field, but if I had to pick out two it would be Jason Pomeranc and Nick Jones.

DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A DESIRE TO WORK IN HOSPITALITY OR WAS IT SOMETHING THAT HAPPENED NATURALLY?

I would say that my genuine interest in the psychology of design has influenced my gravitation towards hospitality. Whether I’m in a hotel, restaurant or private club I like to do a bit of people watching. Not only do I find it an enjoyable past time, but also it’s the perfect opportunity to see how and why people respond to the space.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG DESIGNERS?

My advice would probably come down to one word and that is ‘analyse’. No matter whether you are starting out or you are an established designer, you have to do your research. Never copy and always be on the pulse of what is happening around you.

WHAT'S THE BIGGEST CHANGE YOU'VE SEEN IN THE INDUSTRY IN THE PAST FEW YEAERS?

There have been many changes, but quite simply there are a lot more designers around now.

WHAT WOULD YOUR DREAM PROJECT BE?

I’m pretty lucky I get to work on my dream projects every day.

WHAT DO YOU FORESEE AS THE NEXT BIG THING IN HOSPITALITY DESIGN?

I would say that there is going to be a big push towards hotels that are all about offering a fantastic restaurant and bar experience. The rooms will be there, but they will play a far more subtle role in this new hotel concept.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE HOTEL IN THE WORLD?

I have so many but the Mercer in New York is up there at the top.