BUILD Q2 2020

17 Q2 2020 BUILD Dec19443 stablished in 2013 by founder and architectural designer Erfan Azadi, Duck & Shed specialises in residential design for a variety of projects across some of London’s most affluent areas. Speaking with Erfan, he explained to us exactly what Duck & Shed does. “A basic description of what we do, would be that Duck & Shed is a property design studio. However, a more nuanced take would be that Duck & Shed is an aspirational lifestyle company, using interior design and architecture as a way to help build better lives for our clients.” Duck & Shed, under the leadership of Erfan, can provide any client with a range of services, from full architectural and interior design, to partial, collaborative services that meet a specific need. With such an extensive portfolio of completed projects that have been seen through from conception to completion, Duck & Shed promises to deliver the perfect product, no matter the need. Erfan took us through the mission of the firm. “We try to improve our clients lives through the building of spaces which are tailored to them, giving them a higher sense of self worth and well being while improving their daily experience as they interact with their home or their place of work. We do this through the building of interesting spaces, that respond to not only peoples practical needs, but also to their sense of style and wonder. We believe that in life, what we build often ends up building us. So it is important to take the time and build things right, as a good design can have a wonderful long term impact.” Fully respectful of a clients design brief and budget, the team at Duck & Shed offer tailored design solutions for every kind of project. Assembling a dedicated and driven team of high-quality trades and craftsmen, Erfan ensures his professionals service every single requirements that clients have may for a space. Taking us through the firm’s process, Mr Azadi explains how each project comes together. Making a Splash Foresight is a gift that few possess, but when coupled with artistic vision, can lead to exquisite architecture and interior design work. Bringing a wealth of artistic vision and the foresight to realise a space’s true potential is Duck & Shed, a boutique residential design studio based in Notting Hill. We had the privilege of speaking with founder Mr Erfan Azadi to find out more about the firm’s superb work. E “The projects are handmade and well detailed, using a rich palette of natural materials. When we pick up a project, we first envision it in its entirety including the space, the materials, the lighting, the furnishing, and how a client would physically interact with every corner of the build. Being a small studio, we are very hands-on with projects and often end up staying involved in our clients lives for a long time after the projects are finished.” Until recently, Duck & Shed was solely Erfan’s responsibility, but the last year has seen the expansion of the firm. Collaborating with other architects and interior designers has also allowed both the firm and Erfan himself to grow. During our time together, Erfan spoke briefly about the firm’s recruitment approach, and what he believes to be vitally important when working in architecture and interior design. “There are two key things that are non-negotiable. Firstly, there is a certain level of attentiveness that is required, whether it is attentiveness to a construction detail, a note on a drawing, or to a client and their requirements or even their mood. Secondly, people have to be communicative. The process of designing and building is all about teamwork, so being able to communicate effectively is important. For a long time Duck & Shed was a one-man-band so to speak, but we have taken on people over the last year and they’ve been a tremendous help.” With 2020 presenting more opportunities for portfolio growth, the future is bright for the team at Duck & Shed, including Erfan himself. No matter how big the firm may become however, the commitment to quality will always remain the same. Natural materials, impeccable finishes, and sophisticated style will all come together in a Duck & Shed project to ensure the client gets the space of their dreams. Company: Duck & Shed Contact: Erfan Azadi Website: www.duckandshed.com Venice Yard House Venice Yard House