Name: Manuela Mannino and Nicholas J Hickson

Company: THDP

Position within company: Owners

Website: www.thdpdesign.com

Tell us a little about your background in design.
Manuela is an Italian architect with a background in history of architecture studies, Nick is a British interior designer, with furniture design background.

How would you describe your personal interior design style?
Eclectic with attention to technical specifications, our designs need to perform in a tough environment

Where does your design inspiration come from?
It is a mix generated by the location of the hotel mainly, it is lucky if we find an artist that fits the concept and is willing to take on the project. This is very rewarding as a final result.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
We expect more upcycling of old hotel furniture in the future, it will be interesting to create rooms that last longer and can be refreshed often, without throwing everything away

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2021 and beyond. 
Upcycling, less plastic, experience hotels as local social places, healthier food choices, room customization

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be? 
Read the geometry of the space, the way natural light works and build the space in three dimensions from the start

How important are The International Hotel & Property Awards as recognition of talent and achievement? 
They are very recognized in the industry and offer the possibility to enter different categories.

What projects are you currently working on? 
We are working on Hilton Double Tree Roma Monti. This year we completed Indigo Verona, Terme di Saturnia, Hilton Frankfurt City Centre.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months? 
To develop further our European network.

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:

Your most treasured possession? 
Manuela: my Omega seamaster watch.
Nick: my dad’s golf flask

Your favourite holiday destination?
For both of us.. Sardinia

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Any Amalfi coast one for the views

Your favourite book, film & song?
Siddartha, A passage to India, One (U2)

Your favourite food and drink?
Caprese and Spritz

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Walking in the woods of our mountain place

If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
Manuela: a painter
Nick: a sculpture artist

Anything else interesting?
We love our work, design is a passion for both of us.

www.thdpdesign.com

THDP have been shortlisted for Spa – Global Award and Hotel Over 200 Rooms – Europe Award in The International Hotel and Property Awards 2021 

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