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Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design -
Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design -
Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design -
Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design -
Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design -
Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design -
Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design -
Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design -
Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design -
Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design -
Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design -
Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design -
Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design -
Franks Speakeasy by M + M Space Design
COMPILED BY Chantel Hans
The trendy industrial decor of Franks Speakeasy in Durban has naturally translated in it becoming a firm favourite with the locals. VISI chatted to Michele Metior of M + M Space Design about their design approach.
How did M + M Space Design come about?
Mark and I are both of Belgian descent, although born in Africa. Mark studied footwear design in a little town outside Milan and thereafter specialised in ladies footwear design until about seven years ago. I studied medical technology but soon became bored.
About 20 odd years ago we bought an original, untouched but rundown Victorian home and set about restoring it. It was this experience that exposed us to a new world of opportunities. Our combined passion for design started developing from there, which eventually led to the inception of M+M Space Design in 2000.
What would you describe as good design?
We believe the foundation of good design is based on form and functionality.
What was your inspiration behind Franks Speakeasy design and decor?
On our first site visit we were faced with a raw space that looked like a warehouse with exposed slabs and beams. This immediately set the tone for our designs.
How is Franks Speakeasy different from other interiors you have done?
Our typical design style can be described as classic contemporary. We love clean lines with a slight eclectic twist. This was a project to have fun with; it’s not often we get to use industrial components like plumbing piping, industrial meshing, raw timber, exposed electrical cables and warehouse windows. This was a space where we “recycled” what was found lying around.
Describe the interior of Franks Speakeasy in three words.
Raw, unpretentious, awesome.
What was your favourite part of designing Franks Speakeasy?
Realising our ideas and seeing the finished product – especially as this was a new experience for us.
What are you working on now and what’s next?
We have many projects on the go at the moment, all due to be completed by the end of this year. They vary in size and style – it is great for us to have the opportunity to work on such a wide range of projects at once and we can’t wait to reveal the finished products. The list includes a private bush lodge in Timbevati, the gutting and renovation of a north coast apartment, a decor project in Bedfordview and the renovation of a house in Mount Edgecombe.
