We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Adam D. Tihany and Matteo Vercelloni ("ADTAMV").
Adam D. Tihany and Matteo Vercelloni is an award-winning designer that helps make the World a better place with their original and innovative creations and advanced design works.
Adam D. Tihany and Matteo Vercelloni Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Adam D. Tihany and Matteo Vercelloni.
Adam D. Tihany and Matteo Vercelloni Design - CoDe Italian Design Museum
Designer Interview of Adam D. Tihany and Matteo Vercelloni:
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
ADTAMV : I have always kept a very small design studio of no more than 15 people in New York. This atelier model allows me to remain at the creative head, closely involved in the development of every project rather than in the management of people. We operate in a niche segment of the high-end international luxury hospitality market including resorts, hotels and restaurants. The cruise industry is relatively new for our firm, but it has become an important part of our business, along with very high-end luxury residential condominiums. For over 40 years, the studio has maintained a boutique, craftsman-like approach to creating innovative and timeless hospitality interiors at some of the most iconic properties around the world and at sea. - Adam D. Tihany
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
ADTAMV : In its essence, design is the solution to a problem. I have found that the greater the challenges presented, the more creative and- often times daring- the solution. This is especially the case when working on cruise ship interiors, where movement and vibrations are a part of the basic functionality of the ship, the ceilings are low, and everything is in steel, meaning no moving an outlet at the last minute. The challenges become the launching pad for creativity.- Adam D. Tihany
DI: What makes a design successful?
ADTAMV : One of the most valuable truths I learned early on is the importance of telling a good story. A dynamic narrative is what transforms a beautiful space into an experience that is engaging, meaningful and – most importantly- memorable. - Adam D. Tihany
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
ADTAMV : Milton Glaser said that there are three responses to a piece of design – good, bad, and WOW. We always say that Wow is the one to aim for. It’s that extra something that surprises, delights and leaves you wanting more. And in the long run, Timelessness. A project that remains living and relevant for a very long time. - Adam D. Tihany
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
ADTAMV : These days, there is a much higher premium on good design as people are recognizing the important role it plays across the board in our lives. People are more aware of design than ever and it has infiltrated almost every industry. The more we consume, the more we demand- and the more sophisticated we become. Design has become not only an expectation, but a point of judgement. This is good news for designers and good news for the hospitality world because we don’t have to reinvent the services that exist; we can reinvent the design. It is an exciting time to be a creative person. - Adam D. Tihany
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
ADTAMV : The secret to tapping into inspiration is to never stop learning; never hold back on curiosity. The world is an endless resource for creativity and often times it is the unexpected discoveries that will take you the farthest. - Adam D. Tihany
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
ADTAMV : One of the core principles of my design philosophy is to ensure that every project is distinct and site specific. We go to great lengths to fully understand the location of each project, its culture and its people, so that our design narrative will incorporate the true character of the place. It is my belief that if you are checking into a hotel or dining out anywhere in the world, you should know where you are at all times. The distinction is a whispered element that roots a place to its location. - Adam D. Tihany
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
ADTAMV : Listen first and completely. Tell their story, not your own. Look past the computer screen- explore, discover and never stop learning. - Adam D. Tihany
DI: Who are some of your clients?
ADTAMV : We work with a number of luxury hospitality brands including Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons, Dorchester, Oberoi and Belmond. On the cruise front, our longtime relationship with Carnival Corporation has resulted in the creation of the complete interiors for Seabourn Encore and Ovation (and Seabourn Venture, expedition ship upcoming) and public spaces for Holland America’s Pinnacle Class. I’m currently serving as Creative Director for the Italian cruise line Costa Cruises as well as the iconic British line Cunard. I’ve also designed many signature restaurants for celebrity chefs including Thomas Keller, Daniel Boulud, Heston Blumenthal, Wolfgang Puck and Richard Ekkebus. - Adam D. Tihany