Dia hasn’t quite explored interior design yet, preferring the art and fashion worlds. But that’s because we hadn’t met Romanos Brihi. A young up and coming interior designer, with serious good taste and the kind of decision making we crave when pondering what Dyptique candle to get (none, go for Cire Trudon).  Based in London, Brihi has a foot in the South of France as well as Switzerland and Lebanon. Quite convenient if you’re a Middle Easterner looking to get your new flat/house/chalet decorated. So Mr. Brihi, what’s in the briefcase of a busy London interior decorator?

When did you know you wanted to be an interior decorator?

I was very fortunate to be able to travel far and wide as a child and quickly developed a passion for the eclectic styles, colours and designs I encountered. I was always collecting unusual and unfamiliar items and decorating my room with them.

What has been the hardest job you’ve had to this point?

The first project is always the most difficult as it is the biggest learning curve. It is crucial as it starts defining your style and management for the next projects.

What are some of the tricks of the trade you can share with us?

Getting my clients to trust me – once I have their trust I can work magic.

What have been your inspirations? Does your Middle Eastern side ever come to play a part?

I lived in Paris for a short period of time. I was in awe of the architecture and range of interiors I experienced there. The Middle East has played a big part in my development as an individual and as a designer. It is one of the oldest cultures in the world and has some wonderful textures, pigments and inspired use of colour.

What is the single item of decoration you re-use again and again with every new job?

I always insist of some injection of colour – in today’s trends people tend to want everything neutral but colour even in tiny portions can have astounding effects.

Who are the decorators, designers, artists you look up to?

Fernand Leger for form and harmony. Grace Kelly for her elegance combined with Hollywood glamour of the 50’s.

Lastly, what do you carry in your briefcase on an ordinary day?

My Smythson’s diary and sketch book which hold my life in them!
My Mont Blanc pen – it has a lot of sentimental value as it was given to me when I finished my first project.
My Blackberry – I always need to be available for work.
My gym kit – You never know when you may have a half an hour spare
A Whole Foods recyclable bag – I am a firm believer in re-using bags and you never know when you will be popping in to shop!
I always have a book on me, usually a biography or historical portrait. At the moment I am reading, A Prince of Our Disorder: Life of T.E. Lawrence.

Illustration by Gabriela Mot