Last month, I had the pleasure of attending the Design Leadership Network's annual global conference in the historic city of Edinburgh, Scotland. The gathering was an inspiring showcase of creative energy, in-depth conversation, and rich cultural experiences–and over four days, I had the chance to connect with fellow designers and architects from around the world while exploring the region's storied design history.
Our trip began with the summit's prelude in London, where we were treated to a warm welcome dinner at the Chelsea Harbour Design Centre. From there, we headed north to Edinburgh, Scotland, and the program officially commenced with a gathering at Hopetoun House, a remarkable estate dating back to the early 18th century.
The days that followed were filled with presentations from visionary speakers, including Michelin-starred chef Tom Kitchin, who served an amazing dinner on our second night, and visits to cultural landmarks like the National Portrait Gallery Museum and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
It was an experience filled with learnings and fresh inspiration, and today, I'd like to share three takeaways I brought back with me.
Takeaway No. 1
"When brands are doing their job right, the customer cannot help but fall in love…because it creates extreme value. Consequently, luxury customers expect permanent affection and attention from a brand." - Daniel André Langer, CEO Équité
For me, this quote is a reminder of the vital relationship that exists between a designer and their client. At its core, luxury residential design is about listening—taking time to truly understand the needs and desires of your clients and supporting them in bringing their vision to life. It's a collaboration and a two-way conversation from start to finish—and when you deliver that attentiveness and care through your work, the result is almost always impossible not to love.
Takeaway No. 2
"The perception of what a luxury brand constitutes is becoming more fluid, expansive, and nuanced…brands should embrace a philosophy and character beyond products."
I have always been inspired by how fashion houses like CELINE, Chloe, and LOEWE can transform an aesthetic into something more reminiscent of a way of being. Their digital presence and brick-and-mortar stores create an aspirational and all-encompassing consumer experience. Customers aren't just drawn to the products they create but the lifestyle they represent.
It's an approach I strive to mirror in my own design practice, shifting the focus from a simplified conversation of aesthetics to a broader discussion on how we choose to live, the people we are, and how our homes can support and reflect those characteristics in beautiful ways.
Takeaway No. 3
"61% of customers want brands to help them feel intense emotions, while 49% say they are likely to buy from brands that bring them a sense of joy."
As a designer, creating spaces that do more than look good is essential. Today's luxury homes fulfill a much deeper, more memorable need, connecting with clients emotionally to enhance their mood and evoke specific feelings.
From lighting and layouts to colors and finishes, each design choice is important in cultivating a home's atmosphere. It's in understanding how clients want to connect with their space that we can create with intention.
Tying It All Together
All three of these takeaways come back to one central understanding: great design is about storytelling and experience, making choices that reflect who we are while enhancing our environments with the tools we need not just to live our lives but to live them better than ever before—because there's nothing more luxurious than a life well lived.
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