Deep Dive in Design: The Art of Hospitality with Martin Brudnizki

Hosted by FREDERIC’s Editor-in-Chief Dara Caponigro and Emma Bazilian, Content Director of Frederick Magazine

Introduction to Martin Brudnizki

In the February 18, 2025 episode of Deep Dive in Design, Emma Bazilian welcomes renowned interior architect and designer Martin Brudnizki. Martin, the founder of his eponymous studio, has crafted iconic spaces such as London's Annabelle's private members club, Harry's Bar, Soho Beach House in Miami, and The Beekman in New York City. His extensive portfolio and distinctive design philosophy make him a pivotal figure in the world of hospitality design.

Early Influences and Background

Martin’s journey into design was profoundly shaped by his upbringing in Stockholm. Emma asks about his parents' influence:

Martin Brudnizki [01:07]: "Most of my influence has come from my mother, who has, since I was a young boy, always been incredibly stylish and elegant... It's all about enjoyment of beautiful things around you, from cutlery to plates to napkins to the smallest details."

His mother, a stylist and retail interior designer, instilled in him a love for aesthetics and the importance of daily elegance. Conversely, his father, an engineer, contributed to Martin’s organizational skills and structured thinking, though Martin humorously admits:

Martin Brudnizki [02:09]: "It made me a real mummy's boy, I think."

Transitioning from Business and Modeling to Design

Initially studying business at university, Martin also pursued a career in modeling, accepting contracts in Japan and France. However, the onset of a recession led him to shift his focus back to academia. Emma probes into this transition:

Martin Brudnizki [02:31]: "I decided it was time to start studying [design], and as the world went into recession at that time, work sort of dried up."

Educational Journey and Mentorship

Martin attended the American University in London, where his studies encompassed both interior design and architecture. The curriculum included color theory, drafting, commercial and residential design, and architectural envelopes, taught by mentors from the Architectural Association. Notably, Martin credits Michael Wolfson, an architect who influenced his appreciation for diverse styles:

Martin Brudnizki [04:05]: "From Michael, I learned to understand the approach to design because he was a deconstructivist with modern forms and also a great classicist."

Working under industry luminaries like David Gill and David Collins further honed his skills in furniture construction, materiality, and project management.

Embracing Hospitality Design

While studying, Martin discovered his passion for hospitality design through projects focused on shops and restaurants, enjoying the challenge of weaving narratives into physical spaces:

Martin Brudnizki [04:33]: "It's about coming up with a narrative, a story that is sort of like you weave into the design."

Evolution and Diversity in Commercial Design

Over the past 25 years, Martin has witnessed commercial design evolve into more fantastical and diverse expressions. He appreciates the shift away from singular trends, allowing for a multitude of stylistic experiences:

Martin Brudnizki [14:08]: "Commercial design has become more and more fantastical, which I think is amazing... the idea of a trend is sort of gone, which I like."

This diversity enables unique experiences in different venues, enhancing the travel experience by avoiding the uniformity of chain establishments.

Lighting: A Core Element of Brudnizki’s Design

Lighting plays a pivotal role in Martin's design philosophy, focusing on creating pools of light at eye level and minimizing overhead lighting. He emphasizes the importance of adjustable lighting to control ambiance:

Martin Brudnizki [12:20]: "If you remove all finishes, if you remove the style from the place, and you're left with a diagram, our places are very similar... it's how we light them."

Balancing Commercial and Residential Design

While Martin specializes in hospitality, he also undertakes residential projects, ensuring that each space reflects the client’s personal narrative without emulating commercial designs:

Martin Brudnizki [19:53]: "When someone comes to me, a private client, saying, I would like my home to look like the Fifth Avenue Hotel in New York, I would say absolutely not... home is something completely different."

Notable Projects: Annabelle’s Redefinition

A highlight of the episode is Martin’s approach to redesigning Annabelle’s, transforming it from a traditional nightclub into a multifaceted space with layered narratives:

Martin Brudnizki [17:07]: "It became about flora and fauna... celebrating nature and animals, which are my two big passions."

The redesign incorporated themed areas such as the Rose Room with its mural-painted walls and backlit onyx bar, culminating in an immersive basement themed around "Paradise Lost."

Inspiration and Team Dynamics

Martin draws daily inspiration from interactions with his team and clients, valuing the exchange of ideas and collaborative creativity:

Martin Brudnizki [21:52]: "Conversations with my team... and exchanging ideas... gives you a lot of food for thought."

Visually, his inspiration stems from diverse sources including travel, film, and art, allowing him to seamlessly integrate varied influences into his projects.

Advice for Aspiring Designers

Concluding the episode, Martin offers invaluable advice to young designers aiming to excel in hospitality design:

Martin Brudnizki [23:19]: "Stick to your guns... Be tough as nails. Be brave and strong and stick to your own story."

He emphasizes the importance of perseverance and authenticity in developing a unique design voice.

Closing Thoughts

Martin Brudnizki’s insights reveal a deep-seated passion for creating immersive, narrative-driven spaces that balance aesthetic beauty with functional excellence. His journey from a stylish upbringing in Stockholm to leading a prominent design studio underscores the fusion of creativity and discipline essential in the world of hospitality design.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• On Early Influences:
  Martin Brudnizki [01:07]: "It's all about enjoyment of beautiful things around you, from cutlery to plates to napkins to the smallest details."

• On Sticking to His Vision:
  Martin Brudnizki [23:19]: "Stick to your guns... Be tough as nails."

• On Lighting Philosophy:
  Martin Brudnizki [12:20]: "It's how we light them... control the atmosphere from morning to night."

• On Commercial vs. Residential Design:
  Martin Brudnizki [19:53]: "Home is something completely different."

Conclusion

This episode of Deep Dive in Design offers a comprehensive exploration of Martin Brudnizki’s design ethos, his transformative projects, and the personal philosophies that drive his success in the competitive field of hospitality design. Listeners gain a nuanced understanding of how narrative, lighting, and client collaboration converge to create memorable and distinctive spaces.