AZ INTERIORS FEATURED AT CAMBRIDGE EDITION MAGAZINE - STORE OF THE MONTH

Offering a sleek design service for homes in the Cambridgeshire area, AZ Interiors specialises in a range of interior design services to suit its clients’ varying lifestyles. Established in 2013 by designer and artist Alicia Zimnickas, the company offers a personalised approach for both residential and commercial properties. Having studied Interior Design at the renowned Chelsea College of Art and Design in London, after completing her Master’s degree at the University of Fine Art in Warsaw, Alicia gained first-hand experience by working with a range of noted interior design companies in the capital. “I have always been very creative,” she says. “And I’ve studied all aspects of design from a young age – from art to textiles, products to interiors. Now I have my own company, however, the key to standing apart from others is the ability to balance practicality with creative solutions. The overall aim is to help homeowners achieve the most considered, functional and stylish of homes.” A recent project was a large Victorian villa, which needed complete renovation. “It took more than two years to complete but it now looks stunning,” she says. “Key to its success was maintaining good communication with the owners. It’s very important for customers to feel like they are on the same page as a designer, and a renovation project like this can be a very long process. It goes without saying that great understanding between client and designer is paramount.” “The most rewarding thing about the job is how each project is different,” she reveals. “One minute you could be doing paperwork in the office, next you’ll be working on technical drawings and concepts. I also love going to the build sites and project managing.” Citing her signature style as ‘light, bright and airy’, Alicia also reveals that: “I’m not afraid of using pattern and fabric with dramatic effect. “I’d say that my expertise is threefold,” she continues. “One is adding light to dark rooms – many period houses in the UK are dark by nature so it’s a common problem. Secondly, I specialise in soft furnishings, especially re-upholstering existing pieces of furniture. Finally, I am now offering interior design courses. Homeowners in the UK are really into DIY, so it makes sense for me to help them achieve their dream homes without necessarily having to hire a professional. During the workshops, everyone works on one room project and I teach participants how to manage the design process, find their personal style and ultimately make their house beautiful yet practical.” While Alicia keeps on top of new trends by reading design magazines and visiting design shows, her inspiration also comes from travelling: “I like Italian, sleek design matched with oriental elements. It’s unusual but when done right, it can look really impressive. “In terms of new interior trends: playful colours are in but you have to be careful not to overdo them. I would suggest adding a pop of colour with accessories. We will also see a lot of natural materials, such as cork and marble, wood and stone, and raw concrete, which all give a timeless appeal.” Alicia describes her own house as having lots of natural light – with large windows and skylights. “It is bright and airy, with a contemporary but warm feel. I also paint professionally and so have lots of my pieces dotted around. They are vibrant, nature inspired paintings with splashes of colour and texture. It’s personal, comfortable and usable – which is what I aim to achieve with my clients’ homes.” n For more information on the interior design service, workshops and art, visit az-interiors.co.uk  | 07963 175508.