Milola Meets- Lauren Held & Manon Akwule from Mala Interior design
In this episode of Milola Meets we talk to a pair who not only share our British roots but have followed a similar path in setting up an interiors focused, successful business here in Switzerland.
With interiors in their heart and over 30 years experience we've personally enjoyed collaborating with them over the last few years and are excited to explore their journey, passions and what the future holds...
This episode we discuss their journey, how they met and what they have gone onto achieve together both sides of the water..
We are Lauren & Manon, the co-founders of MALA, with locations in Switzerland and the UK. MALA offers a diverse range of services, including everything from the essential finishing touches that bring a space to life, relocation interior design support, to larger-scale redesign or renovation projects.
“Interiors that reflect your style and personality”
TELL US MORE HOW YOUR BACKGROUNDS AND HOW IT INFUENCES YOUR APPROACH AND MAKES YOUR WORK AS INTERIOR DESIGNERS SO SPECIAL?
We met over 15 years ago at university while studying for our bachelor's degrees in interior design. After graduation, Lauren moved straight to Switzerland, and Manon to London, where we both started our careers. In 2020 we decided to join forces and create MALA, with a focus on providing a more personalised service to our clients.
While we both studied the same degree, we went on to specialise in very different areas of interior design. Lauren manages the technical side of the project, focusing on spatial planning, the functions of each space, with a large emphasis on storage planning and bespoke carpentry. Meanwhile, Manon takes control of styling and sourcing, ensuring that each interior is not only beautiful, cohesive, but also perfectly matched to the client's taste.
YOUR DESIGN APPROACH IS CREATING “INTERIORS THAT REFLECT YOUR STYLE AND PERSONALITY”. TALK US THROUGH WHAT THIS MEANS…
Our ultimate goal is to create timeless interiors that can evolve with the client's personal or family needs.
WHAT’S YOUR INTERIOR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY?
We typically adopt a holistic approach to our projects, with a strong emphasis on user-centred design. Our design process is characterised by depth and detail, as we work closely with clients, gathering their inputs and feedback at every stage.
Understanding how the client will use the space and their objectives is essential to our process.
WOULD YOU SAY YOU HAVE A PARTICULAR STYLE YOU FAVOUR IN YOUR INTERIOR DESIGNS?
We like to fully immerse ourselves in the style desired by each client. We particularly enjoy blending elements of the old and the new when suitable, always placing a strong emphasis on the architecture and existing features of the building.
In our home lives, Manon leans more towards a modern classic/eclectic style, enjoying a selection of beautiful objects on display. Meanwhile, Lauren gravitates more towards a more minimalist Japandi aesthetic, preferring to keep objects hidden behind closed doors ;)
WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR INSPIRATION FROM?
Our clients and their lifestyles, along with their personal preferences, are significant sources of inspiration for each project. We find inspiration in exploring new showrooms and design exhibitions, especially when traveling abroad.
Publications like Architectural Digest are also invaluable for inspiration; we appreciate the diverse range of styles they feature.
DO YOU HAVE A STAND-OUT PROJECT YOU’VE WORKED ON?
Our first project working together as MALA, a penthouse in Verbier, holds a special place in our hearts. The client's unique sense of style, blending modern elements with classic antiques and bold colours, allowed us to think creatively and push boundaries with our design solutions.
We are really excited about our current projects. We're in the final stages of completing an apartment in the heart of Notting Hill, characterised by its beautiful classical Georgian features and vibrant colour scheme. Additionally, we're wrapping up the design phase of a stunning chalet in Grimentz, which incorporates playful elements while maintaining a sophisticated atmosphere as a second home.
YOU HAVE SOME AMAZING KIDS SPACES IN YOUR PORTFOLIO, WHAT'S IT LIKE TO DEVELOP A PROPOSAL WHICH HAS TO MEET THE FUNCTIONAL NEEDS AS WELL AS CREATE FUN MOMENTS FOR THE CHILDREN?
Over the past few years, we've had the opportunity to design some wonderful children's rooms. As mothers ourselves, we love to create spaces that inspire imagination and encourage learning through interactive elements and creatively organised layouts. Providing a safe environment for growth and development is paramount, impacting not only the child's life but also the parents'. Let's not forget the crucial role sleep plays; an effective room design can truly be a game-changer!
IF YOU COULD GIVE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE TO SOMEONE ABOUT TO RETHINK OR RENOVATE THEIR HOME WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Of course, we would recommend hiring an interior designer!
If you feel slightly daunted by this, it’s always worth having an initial chat or consultation to make sure you find the perfect designer for you. Even if you don’t need a designer for the whole process, just the occasional consultation can really ensure you are making the best decisions and finding optimal solutions.
One crucial tip for renovation or redecorating projects is to avoid finalising paint colours until the end of the design process. With so many shades available, committing to a specific shade so early on only limits your furniture and accessory choices. By waiting until the end, you can select a shade that not only matches perfectly but also ties everything together seamlessly.
WHO IS A TYPICAL CLIENT FOR MALA?
Although our client range is diverse, a significant portion comprises of expats who find it challenging to create a good home environment in Switzerland, primarily due to language barriers, lack of brand knowledge and import complications. To address this, we utilise our extensive network of suppliers and offer support throughout the procurement phase. We particularly enjoy working with Milola for their excellent customer service and access to unique pieces that are hard to find within Switzerland. Not to mention the many possibilities when it comes to finishes!
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PIECE OF FURNITURE WE OFFER AT MILOLA AND WHY?
We recently specified the round Amelia table for a project in Zug, we love the organic leg shape, which adds character to the space. We love it so much that we've now selected a rectangular 240cm version for a chalet project. The flexibility in choosing sizes, finishes, edges, and wood textures is very beneficial to us as designers!
LOVING MALA'S ETHOS & CREATIVE FLAIR? CONTACT THEM HERE:
NAME:
Lauren Held
AGENCY:
MALA Interior GmbH
LOCATION:
Zug, Switzerland and London, UK
COVERAGE:
Switzerland & UK
WEB:
https://www.malainterior.com
INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/malainterior
Leave a comment