Up close with award-winning designer Lisa Melvin
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
I’m Lisa Melvin. I juggle several hats working for our family businesses predominantly as a designer for Lisa Melvin Design. We offer a full project management and design service for property developers, self-build projects, architects, commercial enterprises and homeowners all over the UK – specialising in kitchens, bathrooms and other interior design elements. I am a member of the Society of British and International Design and also have my own publication Revealed Design Home Interiors… so there’s never a dull moment!
HOW DO YOU GET INTO TOWN?
I am based in Rugby which is only a short journey by train or by car depending on the time of day and destination. I usually drive.
HOW’S THE COMMUTE?
I either travel very early in the morning or just after the evening rush-hour traffic, so I don’t face too many issues.
IS BRUM A GOOD PLACE TO WORK IN?
Yes for sure. It’s perfectly located with excellent transport links, has a fantastic variety of heritage and modern buildings and an eclectic mix of residents. The place has a great vibe and Brummies always seem to have a smile for you – it’s a refreshing change from London!
COFFEE BREAK?
The Lost and Found restaurant which is set in a Victorian building in the heart of the city. It’s a pretty new addition to the Birmingham restaurant scene and has a cool, chilled vibe. They do a mean Sunday lunch too!
LUNCHTIME?
It’s got to be Simpsons to entertain my clients and friends alike. I love this restaurant from the ambiance to the amazing food and service located in a period property with gardens. I am always made to feel very welcome – and I’m excited about the major refurbishment which will make it even better!
POWERWALKING?
A run along the canal at Brindleyplace, super-early if I am in town for an appointment and I can’t fit in my usual training or an evening session at Cannock Chase on the way home. I am into triathlon, currently training for a half ironman, The Outlaw, and a long course triathlon Alpe d’Huez in France You can check out my journey at www.lisamelvinfitness.com
WHERE’S YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE CITY?
The leafy suburbs of Edgbaston with pretty period villas and the beautiful Botanical Gardens. It can be like taking a trip back in history.
AFTERWORK PINT?
I would like to say a Zacapa but it’s more like a Jax Coco on the rocks as I don’t like to drink. I love Bar Epernay in the Mailbox. You can’t beat a piano bar, plus there’s easy parking and I get my car washed at the same time!
HOW CAN THE CITY BE MADE BETTER?
More cycling routes. The introduction of underground cycling parks just like in Japan would be awesome but I know Birmingham City Council have this in hand and are well underway with their new scheme, Birmingham Cycle Revolution. Exciting times!