Yasmine Svensson

CREATING EMOTIVE SPACES

Sri Lanka’s innovative interior design domain – trends and trajectories

Demand for interior design in Sri Lanka
With the increase in real estate development, and post-COVID capex investments in the hospitality and commercial sectors, the demand for interior services has been positive.

Sector strengths
There is flexibility in the sector as a whole from a customer’s perspective.

Barriers to growth
Funding and insurance services for those operating in the design sector – and a lack of clear standards for furniture and fit out manufacturers.

Strategies to overcome the barriers
Focussing on the value of interior design enterprises to the local economy from an SME standpoint and as a support service to the real estate industry.

Cultural influences
Culture is often incorporated into designs through symbols, materials and heritage craftsmanship.

Sourcing materials
Materials are generally sourced locally and complemented with innovative imported supplies.

Prioritising eco design
There’s a concerted effort to reduce the environmental footprint of our work – particularly through the use of locally sourced materials.

Traditional and modern trends
The aim is to ensure that designs suit their purpose while incorporating both traditional and modern elements.

Role of technology in design
Though AI holds promise to be a game changer for interior design, current technology focusses more on design aspects rather than support functions that need to be improved.

Recent local innovations
There’s been a significant shift from traditional to modern design recently – this is beneficial for both customers and designers.

Impact of innovation and tech on design
While artificial intelligence undoubtedly has the potential to reshape interior design globally, the approach is to embrace tech advancements while retaining the human touch.

Designing spaces for wellbeing
Colour, functionality and design help achieve a feeling rather than simply a look.

Integrating traditional crafts into modern designs
Design’s beauty lies in its limitless capacity to combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design while enhancing both in the process.

Sector challenges
The lack of standards for furniture manufacturers in the market and an absence of easily accessible resource for violated agreements.

Impact of government regulations
During the economic crisis, the main issues had to do with regulations on imports and foreign currency payments.

Climate considerations
Due to Sri Lanka’s high levels of heat and humidity, materials face serious challenges but tailoring designs to suit the climate can help minimise this.

Tradition and modernity
While it’s very important to value cultural heritage, there’s always room to modernise as society grows.

Preserving our cultural heritage
This could be achieved by viewing traditional and modern as complementary rather than contradictory factors.

Value of staying connected
Formal networks such as the Sri Lanka Institute of Interior Designers (SLIID) and other trade bodies facilitate connections among professionals in the sector.

Professional and personal ties
If time permits however, engaging more actively would be preferable.

Colour psychology
Although recognised for its impact on human psychology, the power of colour in terms of the impact that interior designs make can’t be overemphasised.

Reason for the importance of colour
The right colour in the right space can make all the difference.

Going global successfully
The combination of international trade events together with a powerful social media presence has enabled the establishment of connections beyond geographical borders.

Qualities for a design career
Passion and talent go a long way but always hand in hand with hard work, problem-solving skills and constant learning.

Professional development opportunities
For aspiring designers, internships or junior positions offer invaluable hands-on experience, providing insights into the day-to-day realities in the sector.

Outlook for design
As the world places increasing emphasis on experiences, the role of design in creating emotive spaces will become even more pronounced.

Mantra for success
Success is subjective – so listen to your inner voice and pursue your unique path regardless of external perceptions; do your best; be kind; and trust in God’s plan.

– Compiled by Dona Senara
Yasmine Svensson is the Creative Director of Creative Heritage.