Interview Interior Designer Linda Boronkay
THE WICK: What is the book you would pass on as a gift to someone else and why?
Linda Boronkay: I really love the book The Eyes of the Skin: Architecture and the Senses by Juhani Pallasmaa. In his book he challenges the visual dominance in architecture, advocating for a multi-sensory approach to design. I love how this book broadens the understanding of architecture, inspiring architects and readers alike to appreciate the full sensory potential of spaces. Something we are also striving for in every project we are working on in my studio.
TW: What are the words you use to live by?
LB: “I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it” perfectly captures my adventurous spirit and approach to life. I’ve always been independent and eager to explore the world, having lived in twelve different countries. For me, the thrill of a new adventure lies in not having every detail figured out before diving in.
TW: What’s your favourite culturally curious spot in London?
LB:
I love the V&A, the Hayward Gallery and Tate for inspiration but equally love hanging out in Soho and watching people. I’m inspired by the way they dress and speak. This multicultural environment is filled with music and creativity is a life force for me.
TW: You work across several continents, how does the local culture in each place inform your projects?
LB: It’s everything. I’m personally very interested in different cultures and architectural styles, which is why I spent the first eight years of my adult life traveling around the world. The cultural context must be the driving force behind every design decision we make in a specific project. Understanding local traditions, materials, and ways of life allows me to create designs that resonate with the community and respect its heritage.
“For me, the thrill of a new adventure lies in not having every detail figured out before diving in.”
TW: You’re known for an emotional, and often sensual, approach to interior design. What inspires your evocative style, and how do you balance beauty with functionality?
LB:
Functionality is number one—most of the time. That is the foundation of every project: the layout, the flow, the customer journey has to work; there is no compromise. Then, of course, comes the ergonomics of setting the correct table heights, seat heights, low-back versus high-back chairs, and sofas. All these factors influence how people will feel and interact with a space.
Once these elements are in place, I layer in colours, textures, lighting, art, plants, and accessories. These design decisions have a strong impact on the atmosphere and your mood. My inspiration comes from nature, art, and the diverse cultures I have experienced throughout my travels. By harmonising these elements, I create spaces that evoke emotion and sensuality while remaining functional and practical. Ultimately, I strive to design interiors that are not only visually appealing but also enhance the quality of life for those who inhabit them.
TW: You worked for many of the great designers, before establishing your own studio; what did you learn from them?
LB:
I learned something different from every studio, which I’m so grateful for. Tom Dixon’s work has significantly influenced my approach as an interior designer by emphasising material innovation, bold design statements, and the strategic use of lighting. His renowned use of innovative materials and finishes has taught me to experiment with different textures and aesthetics.
Martin Brudnizki’s work has profoundly influenced my interior design approach, particularly through his mastery of layered textures and patterns, hospitality expertise, and meticulous attention to detail. Working as an in-house design director for Soho House provided valuable lessons in team leadership, creative problem-solving, and operational alignment.
Additionally, working globally with Soho House taught me to adapt designs to reflect local cultures and sensibilities, maintaining brand consistency while respecting cultural nuances.
TW: What are you working on currently?
LB: We recently completed a heavenly residence in Richmond, London; Osborn Hotel in the Southern Highlands near Sydney; and The Sessile, a new rental concept in Tottenham for Way of Life. We’re thrilled to be working on several hotels in Europe – Hyatt on the Thompson in Rome in an incredible historical building; Sircle Collection on Sir Prague, and renovating a special hotel in Nice: Palais de la Mediterranee. Outside of this, we’re working with the Costes brothers on a restaurant in Paris; a member’s club in Beirut; and we will also be unveiling an apartment in London this September at the historic transformation of The Whiteley.
TW: A fantasy artist you would love to collaborate with?
LB: Collaborating with Thomas Heatherwick as an interior designer would be an exhilarating opportunity – his visionary approach aligns with my desire to create spaces that not only captivate the eye but also tell a story and evoke emotion, offering a fresh and exciting dimension to my design practice.
TW: Who is your ultimate Monday Muse?
LB: Elsa Schiaparelli inspires me with her bold innovation and fearless creativity. As a pioneering fashion designer, she broke the boundaries between art and fashion. Her daring use of colour, unconventional materials, and avant-garde designs reflect a visionary spirit that encourages me to embrace originality and express myself without limits. Schiaparelli’s ability to blend fantasy with elegance and her fearless pursuit of new ideas make her a timeless muse for anyone seeking to push the boundaries of creativity.
