Designing spaces

When Dubai announced its plan to build in the middle of the ocean the whole world held its breath in anticipation. What seemed to be impossible is today a reality. Rwanda is undergoing a construction boom. Not only are new buildings being erected, old ones are also being renovated under the new development plan in line with Vision 2020. With this boom has come a revolution not only of architectural design but also interior décor. Sample for example the Bourbon coffee houses or lounges such as Republika and Torero’s where the interior décor portrays a certain well thought out and planned character. Though fairly new, interior design is a rapid growing industry in Rwanda. A room’s interior design helps create its ambience. Whether it’s a retail store or an apartment, the designer creates a mood using lighting, colours, and elements of space. It is, however, much more than just decorating. Colour, texture, style, and fabrics come into play only after the actual space has been created. “Every time I enter a house I see potential and I always tell the owners about what they can do to make it look better, am not critical am just a designer” Explains Eve Oyando, a Kenyan born interior designer working in Kigali. “There are many new buildings and people are excited about our work” she explains. In the course of her one-year experience in Kigali it is evident to her and her fellow practitioners that many are still very resistance to experimenting with their homes and offices. They are afraid of change. It is the work of interior designers to transform a building to make it appear exceptional. “We work from the inside out, planning every single element of the interior of a building. This ranges from designing the physical layout of a room, to picking the shade of paint for the walls and choosing light fittings. It’s not just about decorating – we’re involved from the start of the planning process.” Interior designers predominantly work with property developers, in designing premises, and also with home owner. Eve continues to explain that interior design isn’t just about having a great eye or great style, it is also about understanding the architecture of a room, learning how to choose styles that reflect the clients’ unique tastes and lifestyles, and being resourceful in making changes. Interior designers have to be good listeners, good at managing people, and comfortable working within budgets. As the interior design industry is still fairly new in the country designers rely on importing different materials mainly from Dubai, Uganda and Kenya” Excellent hardwood furnishings can however be procured from Congo and traditional materials that also come in hardy in decorating. Contact: pgathoni@gmail.com

Leisure

Designing spaces