By Ingrid van der Veen
We spoke with Ingrid van der Veen, founder of Top-Notch Hospitality Interiors. With her unique perspective on design, she not only elevates hotels and restaurants to a higher level but also sets trends in the world of interior design. During her lecture at TICA, she shares her insights on hospitality design and how to achieve success in the interior design industry.
Ingrid van der Veen studied architectural design at the art academy and completed a scenography course in Newcastle. She has worked for many years in various design disciplines such as exhibition design for museums, festival styling, and as an art director for films and television. She also designed sets for large events and worked as a visual artist. After a period as a product designer with her own label, she now focuses entirely on hospitality design. With her unique style, she attracts clients and distinguishes herself in the industry, both nationally and internationally.
According to Ingrid, in the final quarter of 2024, we will see a combination of technological integration, sustainability, and personalized experiences. Smart rooms, eco-friendly materials, and custom designs will play a key role in the guest experience. However, Ingrid doesn’t let herself be guided by trends: “I follow my own path and often set trends before they are picked up by others. It’s about staying authentic in your designs.”
Ingrid offers various workshops and lectures. Her talks are aimed at professionals who want to enhance their design skills and take a new direction. She also provides the training ‘Design and Business Mastery,’ where Ingrid helps interior designers refine their creative abilities while developing business strategies to attract dream clients, realize profitable projects, and build a successful design studio. Although Ingrid does not consciously follow trends, they often play a natural role in her work. In her lectures, she shares her personal approach, conveying her design vision without focusing on what is currently popular. She teaches her audience how to stay ahead in the design world by staying true to their own style.
Ingrid emphasizes that interior design has a significant impact on the guest experience. “People make 95% of their choices unconsciously, and a hotel or restaurant is often chosen based on ambiance. Good design ensures that customers return and allows businesses to raise their prices.” Her designs, such as those for Staatsman and De Librije, elevate the experience beyond what her clients often think is possible.
“It’s important to find a balance between the local culture and the expectations of international guests,” says Ingrid. She uses local stories, colors, and shapes to create a connection, but always in a way that also appeals to an international audience. “Being too local can sometimes backfire.” It’s also important to continuously develop yourself and stay true to your own style. Think outside the box and remain creative in everything you do.
Ingrid regularly collaborates with various suppliers, but she also enjoys designing her own products. At TICA, she can purchase individual items from over 450 brands. This allows Ingrid to fully customize each project and enhance the unique character of her clients. Are you curious about the offerings? Visit one of our locations and get inspired by the wide range of interior items at TICA.
