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Fromental and Stephanie Barba Mendoza Unveil New Collaboration at Lapada

In the realm of interior design, Stephanie Barba Mendoza has carved out a distinguished niche with her innovative and historically rich aesthetic. Born and raised in Mexico, Stephanie's journey in design began in London, where she initially made her mark as a residential interior designer. Her career took a significant leap during her decade-long tenure at the internationally acclaimed Martin Brudnizki Design Studio (MBDS). Stephanie has honed a unique approach to interior design, seamlessly blending high and low, contemporary and antique, simple and ornate.

At Fromental, we are honoured to have collaborated with Stephanie on a unique wall covering for the Berkeley Square Collective stand at the LAPADA Fair. This creation, brimming with architectural details, draws inspiration from the historic temples of Pompeii, seamlessly blending classical motifs and vibrant colours to produce a breathtaking visual narrative. Our vision and passion for exquisite design harmoniously melded with Stephanie's innovative approach, resulting in a masterpiece that captivates and inspires.

Stephanie's ever-evolving style always brings together highly curated and bespoke furniture with one-of-a-kind materials and an impactful use of colour. Her designs are a rich tapestry of influences, drawing inspiration from a wide range of sources, including ancient architecture, mid-century modernism, and contemporary trends. In this interview, we explore the creative journey behind Stephanie’s collaboration with Fromental, delving into the multitude of design references and eras that inspire her work and how this project encapsulates her design philosophy. Join us as we delve into the mind of Stephanie Barba Mendoza, uncovering the passion and creativity that drive her innovative designs and the stories behind her most recent masterpiece.

Growing up in Mexico, what cultural influences and experiences shaped your initial interest in interior design?

I was that child that loved art class and geometry from an early age. I always knew I would dedicate my life to doing something creative. Growing up in Mexico, I was surrounded by vibrant colours that permeate everyday life—whether it was in the bustling streets, lively markets, or the beauty of nature, as well as in the homes and attire of the people. I initially pursued a degree in architecture since interior design wasn’t considered a serious academic field in Mexico at the time. However, I soon realised that my true interest lay not in building skyscrapers but in exploring the profound impact of design within interior spaces and the emotions it can evoke.

Your design style is known for blending high and low, contemporary and antique, simple and ornate. How do you approach balancing these elements in your projects?

Balancing high and low, contemporary and antique, as well as simple and ornate elements in my projects is something that evolves over time through experience. As the late Diana Vreeland famously said, 'the eye has to travel.' I truly believe that experience enhances not only our project and client management skills but also our personal taste. Combining contrasting elements in interior design is crucial for creating spaces that are both captivating and welcoming. It’s essential to incorporate a variety of styles and textures, as this interplay adds visual interest and depth. Much like putting together an outfit—where you layer different pieces and adjust them based on what you feel strikes the right balance—interior design follows a similar principle. It’s all about layering elements thoughtfully to achieve a cohesive and harmonious look.

You have worked on a diverse portfolio of global design projects spanning hospitality, residential, and retail sectors. How does your approach differ across these various types of projects?

Each sector inherently demands a different approach. Designing a private home involves a higher level of attention and communication, as it requires an intimate relationship with the client and her vision. In contrast, commercial projects involve multiple stakeholders and tend to be more business-oriented by definition. In these scenarios, deadlines and project timelines tend to be more stringent and are typically adhered to more closely. I genuinely enjoy working across various types of projects and clients; this diversity makes my work dynamic and keeps the creative process exciting.

Who are your design heroes, and how have they influenced your work and design philosophy?

I have long admired the Viennese Secessionists and the women who pioneered the field of decoration, including Dorothy Draper, Madeleine Castaing, Syrie Maugham, and Elsie de Wolf. Their influence on interior design is profound. Additionally, I'm greatly inspired by artists who have dared to break the mold and innovate, much like Queen did with their groundbreaking album ‘Night at the Opera,' which faced criticism initially and has since become a major work of art. My aspiration is to deliver a fresh perspective for each client I work with, and I believe that having courageous clients who are open to new ideas is key to achieving this vision.

Your recent collaboration with Fromental for the Berkeley Square Collective stand at the LAPADA Fair draws inspiration from the historic temples of Pompeii. What other historical periods or architectural styles fascinate you, and why?

Alongside my admiration for the Viennese Secessionists and their rebellious spirit against the conservatism of 19th-century Austrian artistic institutions, I am equally captivated by the romance of the Belle Époque. The Porfirian architecture in Mexico, which represents a fascinating fusion of French and Mexican styles, also interest me—some of the most stunning houses in Mexico City date back to this period. Additionally, I have a deep appreciation for the surrealist movement, which has profoundly influenced art, fashion, jewellery, and interiors.

What does it mean to you to be an interior designer, and how do you define success in your field?

Being an interior designer means I get to tell a story through the spaces I create. I love the process of discovering my clients’ dreams and turning them into a tangible vision. My goal is to design environments that evoke positive emotions—warmth and coziness in a home, or a sense of fun and excitement in commercial spaces. While each project is unique, I strive to evoke uplifting feelings; anything less feels like a missed opportunity for everyone involved.

Can you share some insights into your creative process? How do you approach a new project from concept to completion?

Inspiration can arise from the most unexpected sources—whether it’s a word from the client, a fabric I feel drawn to, or even a piece of music. It may sound a bit whimsical, but I truly believe that being open and receptive to these influences is essential.

We dedicate considerable time to developing a concept, as I believe this is one of the most crucial phases of a project. It sets the narrative, as well as the overall look and feel, and we dive deep into this process. We present clients with sketch visuals, material finishes, and fabrics to generate excitement around the concept. Once we have their approval, we embark on an intensive phase of detailing, drawing and specifying the concept to bring the vision to life. Finally, we oversee the built to the installation, ensuring every detail is just right, from arranging furniture to fluffing the cushions, whether it’s for a client moving into their new home or for a space preparing to open to the public.

If you could collaborate with any designer, living or deceased, who would it be and why?

I would love to collaborate with Luca Guadagnino a film maker who is now dabbling in interior design. I adore his films, the sets, the cast, the plots. I would love to collaborate with this brilliant creative.

What is your go-to source of inspiration when you’re looking for fresh ideas for a project?

My go-to sources of inspiration are my collection of books and music. Music plays a vital role in my creative process, providing an emotional backdrop that often sparks new concepts and perspectives.

Can you share a piece of furniture or decor item from your own home that you love, and tell us why it’s special to you?

One item in my home that I cherish is my horse table, which was hand-carved in Michoacán, my home region. It was a gift from my brother and sister-in-law. This table is beautifully hand-painted and gilded, embodying the surrealist essence of Mexican folklore.

When it comes to personal style, who do you look up to as a style icon, and what about their style appeals to you?

Being a surrealist fan, I love everything that Daniel Rosberry is doing for Schiaparelli. Tilda Swinton is a great style icon as well. Her fashion sense is chic, and wonderfully understated, often embracing an androgynous aesthetic. I admire her affinity for sharp cuts and clean lines.
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