Momo Inspirational Video Series - Gavin Hepper
The Momo Inspirations series shines the spotlight on a range of designers using Momo Handles in their projects. We find out where they draw their inspiration from for designs and product choices, as well as showcase to the world the unique projects they have brought to life for their clients. In this latest release we talk with Gavin from Concepts by Gavin Hepper who draws inspiration from the beauty of his local surroundings and uses design elements from within the handles to compliment the overall design of the project.
GALLERY
We visited your recently completed projects City Beach and Sorrento in Wollongong, tell us the background behind the projects?
These projects both share some similarities in that they were both apartment renovations here by the beach, both affording ocean views. The design briefs for each is quite different though, Sorrento imbues a more Mediterran luxe aesthetic with natural stone and an organic colour palette whilst our Citybeach project is a modern interpretation of some quite traditional elements in its design.
What are the highlighting features in each project and the handles you’ve used?
In the case of Citybeach, our design development began with some traditional joinery elements, the ribbing on the Barrington handles, knobs and cup pulls really echoed these design details and allowed us to use them across not only the kitchen, but in the powder room, bathrooms and subsequent joinery.
Sorrento is a bit of a different story – we had chosen the colour palette with these beautiful warm layered neutrals and wanted something subtle but a little bit special. I called our rep and Kylie had sent me a handle that hadn’t been released to market yet. When we received it, we knew it was perfect for this project, the colouring was subtle and wasn’t going to compete with the rest of the finishes, the weight and detailing of the Arpa felt luxurious and premium and from there we were able to co-ordinate this beautiful tapware that had a similar detailing to it. It was a perfect choice.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
We’re very fortunate to live here on the South Coast, a lot of inspiration is drawn from Nature – the Ocean, the Escarpment we have the best of both landscapes. But inspiration sources can be quite varied, and often include the properties architecture, it could come from a piece of art or item the client has collected from their travels – something that really connects them to the space.
What are the top kitchen styles your clients are asking for?
During our design brief process we complete a deep dive into how our clients use the space, their lifestyle, and this will identify some of the key components of styling and materiality. Then we look at the best way to bring functionality and life into those spaces. We want to create spaces that spark emotion when you are in them, the way it makes you feel when you are there, especially a feeling of joy, happiness and calm. These are very important to us.
What are the top 3 emerging trends we will see across 2023?
Sustainability – Appreciation of sustainability.
Provenance – I believe people are really looking for the connectivity – to each other, to place, to country, and they want to have that in their spaces, everyday. It provides a sense of security and comfort. Appreciation and focus on functionality and the multi-use of their spaces – clever design that will facilitate various activities and usage in the one space – blurring the lines between work and play (ie my kitchen is functional for cooking, but is also a homework zone for the kids and a wine bar afterhours – am/pm zoning – who doesn’t want this in their life?
Self care – I still want my home to be about me, it’s a reflection of me, my family and how I want to live, authentically just for me not for the neighbours, the colours I like, the way it makes me feel.
Would you base your overall design / styling around a specific kitchen handle or are handles an afterthought?
Handles are definitely not an afterthought in our designs. After all, ‘the details are not the details. They make the design’ Charles Eames. Our studio philosophy is all about design details, and every element of those details is well considered as part of our overall specification.
Handles are one of the ultimate accessories, to the extent that some can be considered the jewels to our joinery. Something that is quite a statement can be the centre piece that then enables us to design around it.
Do you and your clients prefer using a consistent handle finish throughout or does this vary depending on the room?
We do prefer a connection to our spaces when designing full home interiors. That’s not to say it’s the same handle, but the versatility of a collection such as Barrington that has those design details but in various shapes – so that cohesive of design details is across the project but also allows individuality in each room.
Do you have a preference for the material of the handles? And a preference for the different finishes of handles?
I have a personal preference for those natural or living elements like brass or muted tones or the beautiful timber range, but when designing and specifying its always about what is right for the project.
What are you favourite Momo Handle ranges and why?
I have a few favourites but ultimately the diversity of portfolio and consistency of product is my favourite about the Momo range. (I will say though that our studio manager is excited to work with the new brass range – it has a great weight and feel).
What sets the Momo handles range apart from other brands?
Quality is probably our initial reasoning for choosing Momo, followed by the diversity of the range – both in styling and colour – between the premium and designer ranges we really have so much to choose from. And the price point is very reasonable.
Do you have any exciting new projects coming up in which you’ll be featuring Momo Handles?
Of course, always, you’ll need to keep an eye on our socials.
We hope we continue to be part of the Momo handles for many years and projects to come.
A big thank you to Gavin Hepper for taking part in Furnware’s Momo Inspirations series.
Follow Concepts by Gavin Hepper on Instagram @conceptsbygavinhepper to stay up to date with their projects or get in touch through www.conceptsbygavinhepper.com
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