An architectural and interior designer whose work is defined by a calm, nature-inspired aesthetic and highly considered detailing, Annabel is head of Studio 11:11’s Auckland office. She has developed a reputation for creating timeless spaces with refined material sensibility and her work has been recognised through several industry awards and accolades. Ahead of the upcoming judging process in May, we asked Annabel a few questions about what inspires her as a designer.

Can you tell us about a favourite interior space?

Annabel Smart (AS): The spaces that stay with me are usually less about spectacle and more about feeling and human experience. The Rothko Chapel in Houston and Grundtvig’s Church in Copenhagen are two spaces that I can’t stop thinking about. While they are quite different spaces, they are both lessons in humility, showing how form, texture and clever manipulation of natural light can make a space feel like some sort of wizardry.

Is there a designer or a studio that you particularly admire?

AS: I’m drawn to designers who approach interiors as a form of storytelling, where every decision feels intentional and emotionally resonant as a whole. I admire designers who understand when to be playful and bold and, perhaps more importantly, when to step back. Claudio Silvestrin, John Pawson, Tadao Ando, Faye Toogood and basically anyone from Belgium.

Do you have a dream interior project?

AS: My dream project isn’t defined by the brief or the site but by trust and collaboration. One that allows time for thoughtful decision-making, material exploration and genuinely inspired dialogue between designer, maker and client.

Is there any new thinking you’re hoping to see or employ in the future?

AS: I’d like to see greater respect for reuse and material re-imagination, an emphasis on craft and a more holistic approach to wellbeing in interiors. I’m also excited by the potential for more research into and application of indigenous building techniques worldwide.

What is it you’re most looking forward to in judging the Interior Awards 2026?

AS: I’m most looking forward to encountering work that feels brave in its intent and deeply responsive to our people and place. I have a strong sense of pride in the New Zealand design scene and I’m so excited to see the confident, distinct point of view in this year’s entries.

Is there any advice you’d give to designers thinking of entering the awards?

AS: I would say go for it! The awards are a fantastic opportunity to share your creative process, to learn and to contribute to the design community here in Aotearoa.

Click here for more on the Interior Awards and here to submit your projects to the 2025 Interior Awards before Wednesday 29 April.