Q&A with Studio Shepel
The SHEPEL’ story…
Over 15 years ago, in Ukraine, Alexander Shepel and his wife, Helen, embarked on a journey to establish an architecture and interior design company specialising in crafting luxury interiors for clients worldwide. “Expressing the unique character of each space through exceptional designs and custom-made solutions, Studio SHEPEL’ designs and crafts world-class private and commercial spaces, built to withstand the test of time,” says Alexander. “Helen and my skillsets are very different, but they complement each other to produce the very best results. We have found it so helpful to have access to each other’s expertise and knowledge, especially as we have scaled our business in new, international markets.”
Keep scrolling for the scoop on SHEPEL’…
Congratulations on your new showroom, that must have been a labour of love! What was the design brief?
“Thank you! SHEPEL‘ has received such a positive response to the opening of its first UK-based showroom at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour. The Harbour is internationally renowned as a hub for its interior design and furniture excellence, offering exposure to some of the world’s best interior designers, architects and fellow design brands, who seem to appreciate our thoughtfully curated schemes. The showroom is designed to resemble a furnished apartment – we wanted to create a space which enables clients to envision how SHEPEL’s furniture seamlessly integrates into various interior settings.”
Is there a signature Shepel aesthetic? What would you say you are most known for when it comes to your designs?
“SHEPEL’s interior design style is a harmonious blend of refined elegance and understated luxury. Each creation is designed to enhance the unique character of a space while meeting the lifestyle needs and reflecting the distinctive taste of its occupants. We incorporate a diverse range of influences into each project to create something completely unique however our commitment to expert craftsmanship is what often resonates most with our clients.”
Where do you get your inspirations from?
“SHEPEL’s signature design style draws inspiration from diverse global references, and we are often inspired by our Ukrainian heritage which prioritises artisanal techniques and traditions.”
Would you say that craftsmanship is in Shepel’s DNA?
“Yes, we design luxury interiors and to us luxury is synonymous with superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. SHEPEL‘ meticulously handcrafts each piece with the utmost attention to detail and using only the finest materials sourced from around the world. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship and exquisite design ensures that every
creation embodies a sense of luxury that transcends fast-paced trends to produce cherished heirlooms for generations to come.”
What do you tell your clients to invest in?
“Case goods, like wardrobes and kitchen cabinets are at the top of the list when it comes to investing in custom design. When tailored to your home, these can stretch up to the ceiling and fit into awkward nooks, maximising every inch of storage space, and helping you to be more organised – whilst syncing perfectly with your existing design style. Whilst one-off pieces can be expensive compared to mass-produced furniture, the quality and longevity of hand-crafted items will far outlive that of high street options.”
What is it you like about working with wallpaper?
“Wallpaper is a great basis to build a scheme and has a huge impact on the feel of a room. Think about the style of a home to ensure cohesion – traditional patterns often suit period homes better, whilst kitsch patterns can add a sense of fun to a contemporary scheme. We use Mulberry wallpapers in many of our schemes, they work perfectly when combined with wooden panels, giving the interior a special aesthetic.”
Please describe Shepel in three words, or the Shepel aesthetic.
“Elegant, distinctive and decadent.”
WOULD YOU SAY THERE ARE RULES WHEN IT COMES TO INTERIOR DESIGN, OR NO RULES?
“At SHEPEL‘, our approach to design is deeply personalised and attuned to the unique essence of each client and their properties. Despite following functional design principles, we are guided by the aesthetic preferences of our clients – maximalist or minimalist. Our clients seek designs that transcend the ordinary and reflect their individual lifestyles and interests. Thus, our frequent design requests revolve around the creation of bespoke, one-of-a-kind pieces that capture the essence of each space while embodying the personal style of the client. We believe an interior is timeless when it truly reflects the people who inhabit it – not just a particular style.”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to design?
“One piece of advice I received years ago and uphold when designing an interior is to not chase trends but instead carefully curate your home with timeless pieces that you will appreciate for years to come. Additionally, when creating an interior, it is necessary to take into account the personality of the customer, their lifestyle choices and taste; this is one of the keys to creating a unique design that will delight.”
For more information, visit SHEPEL’.
