Discover a new series of articles, where Maison Prélonge takes you to meet talented architects . In this first interview , dive into the creative world of Justine Fernandes , an architect passionate about the art of creating unique and warm spaces . Explore her inspiring journey, her vision of design and her decoration tips . An enriching immersion where the comfort and elegance of Maison Prélonge meets the creative vision of Justine Fernandes to redefine the concept of home.
Can you introduce yourself? What is your background?
My name is Justine Fernandes , I am 33 years old and I have been an interior designer for about ten years.
As for my career, I first completed a year in applied arts. A year during which I had the opportunity to explore various artistic fields such as interior design , communication and product design . It was there that I discovered my passion for interior design , the creation of spaces and the transmission of emotions through design .
I continued my studies by joining an interior design school, where I was really able to give free rein to my creativity and flourish in activities that suited me. In 2014, once I graduated, I made the decision to move to Paris to begin my professional career.
I joined the lighting publishing house Forestier, where I worked for a year and a half as a product designer . This experience was very enriching in many ways, but over time, I realized that I really missed interior design . That's when I decided to start collaborating with several independent architects .
This collaboration gave me the opportunity to discover the profession on the ground and to develop a real professional methodology, while maintaining my freedom as an independent. It was a very formative and stimulating period in my career .
And it was in 2020 that I decided to launch my own projects under the name Justine Fernandes Architecture . At the same time, I continued to collaborate with different architects to enrich my experience . My activity today covers a diversity of projects, from residential to retail , which allows me to vary the types of projects and the challenges.
How would you define your style? What inspires you?
It is difficult to define a precise style for my work. I would say that it is rather a timeless style with a little touch of originality , madness or color . In my approach, I like to preserve the very essence of the existing place. For example, if you have a duplex with high ceilings and exposed beams, this already gives a certain cachet and guides the style to adopt.
As for inspiration, it also comes from the client 's preferences. I then try to create a harmonious blend between his tastes, the existing architecture , etc., and that's where the magic formula works by creating a personalized and unique space .
For me, inspiration is omnipresent. It can arise during a simple stroll in the streets of Paris or during travels. Traveling is something that is particularly close to my heart and that allows me to recharge my inspiration gauge, because it allows me to open my mind and notice the small details that make each place unique. These are things that feed my creativity on a daily basis.
Among all your projects, is there one that particularly left its mark on you, that you are most proud of?
To start with I would say that each project is really different and interesting to approach, to handle, etc... Because each place and each client is different. I find that we start a new story each time and we don't see the routine side of the job. But if I had to choose one I would talk about the Fontenay-aux-Roses project . It is a house from the thirties, where the clients offered me total creative freedom to renovate part of their house , including the kitchen , the bathroom , the laundry room and the landing .
I really enjoyed doing this project because I was able to give free rein to my creativity while respecting the constraints of the existing space . I found it particularly interesting to play with the different materials and to dare to integrate color , which is not always common in this type of project . In addition, the relationship of trust established with the clients from start to finish was a very rewarding aspect of this project .
What faux fur products from Maison Prélonge caught your attention as an interior designer?
As an interior designer , I was obviously drawn to cushions and throws because they are something that can easily be associated with our work. They are the final touch, what will bring chic , elegance and also the comfort of a space. These are pieces that I can place in all my projects or at least most of my projects .
As for the colors , I have a preference for Cream , I find that it really has this chalet / mountain spirit and this comfortable side that we look for in a plaid . It is already soft before even touching it!
As an interior designer , the creation of custom products has also attracted my attention. Thinking of a completely different application of your faux fur , such as on a floor or even as a headboard, is very interesting. The ability to create unique and personalized solutions is essential in the profession of interior designer , and your flexibility in this area is very appreciable.
Can you explain how Maison Prélonge faux fur was incorporated into one of your recent projects?
I integrated Maison Prélonge faux fur products into a 22m² apartment in the heart of Paris. Once the apartment plan was redesigned, I wanted to create a real cocoon for the client through decoration . The goal was to bring warmth and comfort in order to improve the well-being of the occupants, despite the constraints of this small space . By adding a few touches of faux fur in this interior , I was able to introduce a feeling of softness and comfort .
For example, I used faux fur cushions on the sofa and a matching tissue box cover to create a cozy atmosphere in the living room. These elements helped to make the space more welcoming and provide a real feeling of well-being , while adding a touch of warmth to the overall decor of the apartment .
Do you have a decorating tip that our customers can easily reproduce at home using Maison Prélonge products?
Working on the material effect can be an easily achievable decorating tip . For example, mixing materials like faux fur and linen can add character to an interior . It's a simple but effective way to bring texture and a certain comfort to a space .
I also think of more "audacious" ideas, like replacing a classic wallpaper with a faux fur covering for an impactful effect. Similarly, considering a faux fur floor for a dressing room can really give the room character and give it a high-end feel. These small touches of creativity can completely transform the atmosphere of a house or apartment .
What drives you in the creation of your projects?
What drives me in creating projects is playing with different constraints. For example, pre-existing architecture can impose certain challenges, such as complex or restricted spaces , and that's what will stimulate my creativity . These constraints push me to think about the best way to optimize space and design a project.
Future projects in sight… ?
Yes, there is in particular the renovation project of a duplex in the 7th arrondissement where I can perfectly visualize the integration of your products. It is in fact the merger of two apartments : an existing duplex where the client already lives, and an adjacent 35m2 apartment that he recently acquired. The objective is to bring them together to create a harmonious and comfortable space on a daily basis.
This apartment is very lively and colorful in the common areas , but I aspire to bring a softer and calmer atmosphere in the bedrooms. I would like to play on contrasts by introducing softer textures , such as your faux furs .
I am currently proposing rooms in neutral tones, such as beige and cream , where I can perfectly see your Monaco-coloured faux fur to enhance the tones and add a touch of comfort . I envision it as a bedspread with a few cushions or as a decorative element on a rattan chair, to create a harmonious mix of materials .
CONTACT:
Justine Fernandes
JF Architecture - Website
@justinefernandesarchitecture - Instagram
Photographers
@loutoinon - Project photos
@marelle_marion - Portrait photos
Stay tuned for more fascinating interviews with talented architects!
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