THE INFLUENCER AWARD CLAIRE GERMAN
managing director of design centre, chelsea harbour, london
The world of design and interiors is full of those who have a big impact on the latest trends, but remain relatively unknown. To highlight these unsung heroes we’ve launched The Influencer Award. Here, our design correspondent, Barbara Chandler, celebrates the very first recipient Our Influencers have been chosen not just because of the job they do, but also the exceptional way in which they carry out their work. The worthy first recipient is Claire German of Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour,
a resource primarily used by architects and interior designers, but open to everyone. The unrivalled home of decoration and furniture boasts 120 showrooms, offering fabrics, wallpapers, lighting, furniture, flooring, bathrooms, kitchens and the latest technology from more than 600 international brands. With an ambitious Design Avenue currently under construction, those numbers are set to grow.
Claire, who has a background in magazine publishing and events organisation, became managing director in summer 2010. Her imaginative ideas for the Design Centre have included adopting a more dynamic engagement with consumers. Under her stewardship, the Design Centre’s open house events during spring’s London Design Week and autumn’s Focus now feature informative and stimulating three-day programmes. There’s something for everyone, including installations, launches, demonstrations, pop-ups, talks, food and flowers, with logistics covered by courtesy transport from Sloane Square.
Claire’s influence is also evident throughout the rest of the year, with free “design discovery tours” twice a month, and a free personal shopping service, bookable in advance. Her passion for her job is clear. “It’s a clean creative canvas, and every day is different,” she says.
To get a better picture of the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour with Claire at the helm, visit its engaging profiles on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @designcentrech.
Focus/17 runs from 17-22 September 2017 at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, Lots Road, London SW10; the public days are 20-22 September. View the programme at dcch.co.uk.