10 QUESTIONS WITH LOUISE WICKSTEED, PARTNER OF 1508 LONDON

Project Pearl

We caught up with the lovely Louise Wicksteed, talented partner of 1508 London, a renowned London based design studio responsible for the creation of exceptional residences and interior spaces. The designs produced by 1508 London are not formulaic or style driven but are derived from measured principles – and that’s what makes them stand out.

1.) In terms of your background, what led you into creating 1508 London?

Having worked in various design practices which were headed up by one personality, we wanted to create a company which was about a collective of diverse designers who work to our ‘Design Principles’.

2.) What services does 1508 London provide?

At 1508 we have a talented team of Architects, Interior Designers and FF&E Specialists as well as a separate procurement team for Furniture, Lighting, Artwork and Accessories. This enables us to build teams according to the specific project requirements, so we can take on almost any design project from concept to completion, including architectural & interior projects, large or small. We also have an experienced team of architectural technicians who assist with the delivery of the more technically complex projects. 

3.) How big is the team at 1508 London?

The talented team is comprised of the members mentioned above.

Lanesborough Spa

4.) You’ve worked on some very talked about projects. Do you have a favourite project to date?

Our projects are very diverse but our Spa and Private Members Club for the Lanesborough Hotel was particularly interesting. Our challenge was to create a club that echoed the English Regency period of the main hotel whilst introducing some modern, experiential elements to create a very original space. Equally we have some wonderful private clients who are also really fun to work with. We love it when clients come to us with interesting ideas and challenges!

5.) Following the initial meeting / consultation with a new client, how do you ensure their design needs are understood and met?

The client is integral to each stage of the process and is included every step of the way

6.) How do you gain fresh inspiration for new spaces?

At the beginning of the process we spend as much time as possible understanding and getting to know our client, every client has different aspirations and requirements so they always give us fresh inspiration, just by being themselves! We also do a solid foundation of research into the architecture and both the immediate and wider locality of the building, as we believe every project should have a ‘sense of place’. Together this triangle of elements forms the starting point for every project and we then go on a journey of design in order to create something original and innovative which responds to the brief.

7.) What do you do to completely unwind from the hectic whirlwind of London life?

Go to the country and curl up in front of a roaring fire with a good book.

Project Adam

8.) Do you have any British design heroes – past or present?

I think the new design museum by John Pawson is fantastic but I am very inspired by those across the channel including Studio KO and Joseph Dirand, I also love the eclecticism of Jean Louis Denoit.

9.) What is your favourite part of London?

Probably Soho because it is always evolving and has a feel good energy.

10.) What is the overall brand ethos of 1508 London?

I came across an interesting phrase when researching the architect Richard Seifert, whose brutalist concrete building in the Southbank we worked on last year. He coined the term ‘Prestige without Vulgarity’ and I think this sums up our approach to design very well. We are a luxury design house who create exceptional spaces, both playful and considered.

Project Elizabeth, Belgravia

To get in touch:

1508 London | Contact the studio here | T: +44 20 7802 3800 | 7 Howick Place, London SW1P 1BB