Photo by Elite Dwellings
One of the best things about being a designer is the license to observe. When I travel, I’m not just taking in the big picture—I’m zooming in on the details. The curve of a handrail, the patina on a door, the way a shadow falls across patterned tiles. These small moments, often overlooked, are where culture, craft, and character live.
Over the years, I’ve collected mental (and digital) snapshots of design details from around the world. They’ve changed the way I think about space—and they inevitably find their way into my own work, subtly reinterpreted.
Morocco: Pattern as Language
In Marrakech, pattern is everywhere—zellige tiles, carved wood, painted ceilings, metalwork. But it’s never ornamental for ornament’s sake. There’s a rhythm to it that is derived from nature. There is a real detail and depth to all building elements.
Immersive view of a luxurious moroccan restaurant interior, showcasing an ornate ceiling, traditional decor, and warm, inviting ambiance
Italy: Old Meets New
Walk through Milan or Florence and you’ll see centuries-old architecture side-by-side with sleek modern interventions. Italians have a way of layering history and innovation without losing either. A contemporary glass volume nestled into a crumbling stone wall doesn’t feel jarring; it feels like a conversation across time. That sensitivity to context is something I carry into every renovation project.
A cozy Italian cafe featuring rustic wooden furniture, soft cushions, and warm ambiance. inviting space is adorned with shelves of wine bottles, creating perfect dining atmosphere.
Japan: Minimalism with Soul
Clean lines and negative space aren’t just aesthetic—they’re philosophical. A simple wooden joinery detail or the quiet asymmetry of a tatami room speaks volumes about care, patience, and respect for material. Even the way light filters through a washi screen feels intentional.
This kind of design isn’t cold. It breathes.
Scandinavia: Design as Lifestyle
In Denmark and Sweden, good design isn’t precious—it’s everyday. From furniture to lighting to even the way streets are designed, there’s a clear belief that beauty and function belong together. Nothing is fussy. Everything earns its place. I learned here that simplicity isn’t about less—it’s about clarity.
India: Colour and Craft
India is a feast for the senses. What struck me most wasn’t just the vibrant colour, but the craftsmanship—hand-carved stone, block-printed textiles, intricate inlay work. There’s an authenticity that comes from labour-intensive processes passed down for generations. It reminded me to slow down and value the human touch in design.
Details are never just aesthetic—they’re cultural, emotional, and deeply human. They tell stories about how people live, what they value, and how they interact with their environment. When we design with that in mind, we create spaces that do more than look good—they connect.
Wherever I go, I keep my eyes open. Because sometimes, the smallest detail—a worn stair tread, a carved window screen, a handmade light switch—holds the biggest idea.
About the Author:
Mary and Andrew are architects, designers, and, most importantly, HMO investors. They combine their knowledge of HMO investing with their 20+ years of experience in architecture to help investors maximise the potential in their projects through layout optimisation and high-end design. Learn more about Mary and Andrew here.