Describe a typical work day for you?
I get up early (4-6 am), walk Lola my adorable dog to the park, while she plays I enjoy a good walk and meditational time( great for my spirit man) and align myself with my purpose and my responsibilities for the day. When I get home, I'll enjoy a cup of coffee at the pool or in the garden. I might go to gym and get that out of the way, grab a shower and settle behind my desk by around 8:00 / 9:00 am. I'll answer emails, validate any appointments and memo my team players about their day. I might have a staff meeting around 10 am and steal a breakfast. Breakfast is my most stable meal of the day. A busy day involves anything from colour scheming, sourcing, compiling design ideas with my team, quoting or seeing clients/ visiting sites to inspect work. To wind down my day I may walk my dog again or enjoy a late sundowner in the neighborhood or at my pool. In summer I love a swim either early in the morning or late at night. If I have an event on, I am usually rushing in to get dressed and groomed before dashing out the door to party the night away. Bedtime is a ritual for me, I enjoy a long soak in the bath or a hot shower, Great Pyjamas and a snug bed with cup of herbal tea or hot chocolate and a liter of water sipped slowly with lemon and fresh fruit while I watch some late night Tv or my favourite series. Then its prayers and bedtime before starting my day all over again. :)
Where are you from and how did you get into this business?
I am from Johannesburg, grew up in a middle class suburb environment and at first I thought I had the makings of an academic, but by mid high school I realised that wasn't so. My Creative interests were pretty much taking over my life. It wasn't until Std 9 (Grade 11) that I knew out of 4 or 5 options that Design was what I wanted to do...but I have struggled all my life with my love of music, singing and the theatre, there are times when one is more prevalent than the other.
From where do you draw your enthusiasm and inspiration for the job?
I wasn't born into a wealthy family. I had a challenging childhood but I love my family and I am inspired by the beauty of life. Life and Creation are filled with experiences and beauty, we just have to take the time to look, smell, observe, touch, hear, taste, find and enjoy it.
How can a customer ensure that they receive the best possible service from you?
Be upfront and straightforward with me, I am a willing flexible designer and I love delivering something creative and challenging.
What has been your most memorable experience on the job?
Landing my first big contract to do a complete turnkey home.