Anna Kovalchenko is originally from Moscow but considers herself to be an “international” person. Her mindset is not limited by national boundaries, but likes to explore different countries and their cultures. Her path towards becoming an interior designer has been a meandering one. Busy for many years in hospitality, sales and marketing, she eventually realized her dream to become a designer and just six months after enrolling to study a diploma she launched her blog – L’Essenziale. In 2012 launched her own online boutique and since 2014 has been a regular contributor to Architectural Digest Russia. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Anna Kovalchenko.
Image Credit: 1) Consort Design 2) Amber Interior Design 3) Westelm 4) Anthropologie 5) Joybird
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
Relaxed, tranquil, eclectic with some bohemian touches - I like mixing in my designs various styles, blend old and new, east and west, vintage and modern.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
Before “diving” into design I like to spend some time analyzing the space, collecting some inspirational images of colour combinations, patterns, textures. I usually create 2 or 3 moodboards and after discussing them with clients we choose one direction in which we continue to move forward.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
I started my career in interior design as a sole proprietor and never really worked in a team with other designers or architects. “Remotely” I admire Justina Blakeney, Emily Henderson and Consort Design Studio. Each of them has their own unique style, instantly recognizable. I love interiors, which they create - always looking very relaxed, cozy and bohemian.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
I have a lot of interior design magazines and books at home, when I need inspiration I like to leisurely look through them with a cup of tea or coffee. I like collecting beautiful photos of nature, architecture, fashion from magazines and put them in a special box. When starting to work on a project I always look inside it and search for beautiful colour combinations or patterns that I can incorporate in my designs.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
I am among those lucky people who truly enjoy what they do. When you love your job, you can work long hours sometimes without any days off, which will eventually pay off.
