The Andrew Martin store is in DIFC Dubai
When it comes to discerning design, Andrew Martin is a household name. Since it’s founding in 1978, the company has come to be the leading authority on both the critique and execution of fine design. The Andrew Martin Interior Design Review has the last say in what’s hot and what’s not. And they should know: the company continues to create some of the most cutting-edge, in-demand home furnishings on the market. Flair sat down with Martin, one half of the original Andrew Martin team, to learn more about how he manages to do it all, from fine design to pinpointing the next big thing.
By Kate Dannies
You design the majority of the pieces for the Andrew Martin brand. How have you managed to continue doing this as the brand grows?
It’s astonishing what a fashion-driven business interior design is, and always was. We can all date an 18th century chair to within 10 years just by its leg detail, handles or marquetry. Since I started Andrew Martin in 1978, that fashion has changed many times. You just have to keep looking at the world around you, from art exhibitions and movies to industrial design direction in things like planes and cars, to the catwalk shows.
Three words to describe your design aesthetic…
Layered, multi-cultural, masculine.
What are some of your favourite pieces you’ve created?
The Saturn chair: a classic shape, very comfortable, in a modern acrylic.
Andrew Martin’s vintage pieces have attracted a lot of attention recently. What special considerations go into creating the vintage line?
I like vintage things that show the patina of well-loved use. I particularly love old toys, but I like them worn and battered. Unlike a specialist collector I am not interested in perfect condition in a pristine box.
What are some of the most exciting new trends in furniture design now in your opinion?
I think one of the most distinct trends of recent years is the lack of universal trends. There are so many styles available and people are more and more confident about following their own taste. Individuality has outpaced trends.
The Andrew Martin Interior Design Review is a leading authority. How do you decide who’s in and who’s out?
We look for designers who, beyond being accomplished, bring something new to the arena and have a distinctive handwriting of their own. We also try to represent a range of geographies, projects and styles.
What role do you play in creating the Review?
I am the editor, so final responsibility lies with me for the designers including which projects we feature, which images we use, and how they are laid out on the page.
What can you tell us about Andrew Martin Dubai? What is unique about the city and its tastes?
People who live and work in Dubai are incredibly lucky, especially in interior design. There is such a wealth of extraordinary projects. It makes me very proud that Andrew Martin is part of it.
