SLOANE SQUARE "AUGUST 2023"

Redefining luxury

WITH 25 YEARS IN THE BUSINESS, FOUNDER OF DECO MOORE STUDIO, ARCHITECT BANU ALTAY, BRINGS HER BROAD EXPERIENCE TO LONDON DESIGN LIFE, SHE TALKS ABOUT SUCCESS, LUXURY AND SUSTAINABILITY IN THE WORLD OF MODERN ARCHITECTURE

AS AN AWARD-WINNING ARCHITECT, HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS?

Being a successful architect requires a combination of technical skills, creativity. communicat on abilities, business acumen and empathy-to understand dients' needs. is vital. When we were doing our hotel and villa projects in the Middle East, we dearly understood the importance of empathy A successful architect must have strong communication skills, an understanding of dea gn prinaples, building codes and regulations. Also, you should be able to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions to design problems Architects must be able to effectively communicate their deaga not only to clients, but also to contractors and other stakeholders Architecture is a constantly evolving field and successful architects must stay current with the latest trends and technologies Creativity and being solution oriented are the key factors.

HOW DO YOU FIND LONDON'S ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE AS AN INTERNATIONAL ARCHITECT?

I have lived and worked in London many years an architect This timeless city bas always inspired me Being an architect in London can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Londen is a hub for architecture and design, with a rich history of iconic buildings and a thriving contemporary architecture scene As an architect, you have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, from histori cal preservation to modern high-rise developments 1 feel privileged to put my international experiences into practice in this historical city.

HOW DO YOU COMBINE LUXURY DESIGN WITH SUSTAINABILITY?

Sustainability and luxury architecture are two concepts that can go hand in hand. One example of austainable luxury architecture. is the use of green roofs, which are covered in vegetation and help to insulate buildings, reduce stormwater runoff and provide habitats for birds and insects. 

Another example is the use of renewable energy sources such as solar panels or geothermal heating and cooling systems, which reduce the building's carbon footprint. Ipersonally follow and discover every technique and rule. And our clients really love to follow sustainability trends.

WHAT ELSE IS ON THE AGENDA? ANY EXCITING PROJECTS?

Currently, with my architectural team at Deco Moore Studio, we are working on both rendental and commercial projects which are unique and exciting to design. Also, our new summer collection furniture and decoration lines are proving popular and we are getting very good feedback Hearing our customers" satisfaction both in Europe and Middle East is our biggest reward