THE MAKING OF: AKILIBA POTS

Welcome to an exploration of the design world through the lens of Andrea Rodman, a dedicated and acclaimed interior designer. Recognized with the prestigious Robert Ledingham Memorial award, Andrea's commitment to exceptional design has made her a standout in the industry. With an impressive portfolio featured in international publications like Architectural Digest and Elle Decor, Andrea's upbringing, education, and years of experience have culminated in the establishment of Andrea Rodman Interiors. Join us as we uncover Andrea's captivating journey and design philosophy, grounded in authenticity and timeless

OBAKKI
Your background includes both interior design and fashion design. How has your training in fashion design influenced your approach to interior design, and are there specific crossovers between the two disciplines that you find particularly inspiring?

ANDREA RODMAN 
My training in fashion design has influenced my approach to interior design, primarily in embracing minimalism, natural materials, and my pursuit of timeless simplicity with a layered design that I like to call quiet luxury. The use of textures and finishes, much like selecting linen, wool, and cashmere for their natural beauty and durability in fashion, is often applied to my interior spaces and my approach to materials, promoting comfort and a tactile experience. I have always had a love for high-quality materials and layering subtle details that create form and structure, rather than opulence in design, and I find this can cross over in both disciplines with a minimalist approach. The minimalist principle of 'less is more' guides both my fashion sense and my direction in interior architecture and is the foundation of inspiration for me.

OBAKKI
Can you tell us a bit about your process? How do you balance client preferences with your own design vision to create harmonious and personalized spaces?

ANDREA RODMAN 
Each project is rooted in the discovery of our clients' lives, who they are, and the vibrant and colorful story of their dreams and visions for their home. Key inspiration images are shared with us at the start of the project to convey the style direction they are attracted to. We discuss the elements that drew them to each inspiration, or often it's one of our projects that inspired them. I see each project as a fun, collaborative process, where our clients become part of the design team in a way. We typically focus on elements and details as well as the general feel in the images shared by the clients, and then research how to blend those elements to create a harmonious vision for each space in the home. This captures a shared vision along with our approach to design.