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As Co-Founder of Bergman Design House, Marie Soliman has built a reputation for creating spaces that balance quiet elegance with a strong sense of narrative. Her work spans boutique hotels, countryside retreats, and private members’ clubs, always with a focus on design that resonates on a personal level.

For this edition of The Designer Edit, part of the Independent Hotel Show series, Marie shares her journey into interior design, her perspective on hospitality spaces, and her thoughts on what it means to redefine luxury today.

How did you first enter the world of interior design?

My journey into the world of interior design began incredibly early, by the age of 8, when I started renovating our house and helping my dad in every way: space planning, building joinery, making sculptures, choosing materials. Later in life, with a deep fascination for how spaces can shape experiences, I founded Bergman Design House to explore the intersection of innovation and the subtle elegance that defines quiet luxury. Each design project is an opportunity to craft an experience that resonates on a personal level.

What do you love about designing for hospitality?

Designing for hospitality allows me to create immersive environments that tell a story. I find joy in transforming spaces into experiences where guests feel both welcomed and inspired. It’s about curating moments that leave lasting impressions, blending functionality with an aesthetic that resonates with the essence of each location. I love it when people visit a space we’ve designed and say “wow”. It makes my day.

What are some of the key hotel projects you’ve worked on in the UK?

In the UK, I’ve had the privilege of working on several standout projects, including a boutique hotel in London that embraces local heritage (The Other House, both Kensington and Covent Garden) and a luxury countryside retreat that harmonises with its natural surroundings in Cheshire, presenting the new Fairmont. Each project has been an opportunity to innovate and elevate the guest experience while celebrating the unique character of its setting.

What are some of the key considerations for designing hotel spaces?

Understanding the guest journey, creating versatile and functional layouts, integrating local culture, and ensuring a sense of serene luxury. It's important to balance aesthetic choices with practical needs, marrying beauty with purpose to create spaces that are both inviting and functional.

What differences are there in designing for members’ clubs?

Designing for members’ clubs requires a more intimate approach. There is a focus on exclusivity and personalisation that enhances the member experience. The design must foster a sense of community while providing private spaces that feel like a home away from home, emphasising warmth and understated luxury. Most importantly, it should create experiences that keep members engaged and add value to their membership.

Is there anything you wish hoteliers knew about your role?

I wish hoteliers understood that my role goes beyond mere aesthetics: it’s about crafting a narrative and orchestrating experiences that resonate with guests. It’s a collaborative process, and the more we engage and communicate, the more exceptional the outcome. Bergman doesn’t only cater for interior architecture but also branding and art curation, as I am a huge believer that these three pillars go hand in hand.

What sort of details/information would you look for in a brilliant design brief?

A brilliant design brief should include insights into the target audience, brand position, financial and revenue expectations, the brand’s ethos, the desired guest experience, and any unique challenges. I also look for inspiration sources, budget parameters, and an understanding of the location. This information shapes the creative direction and ensures we align our vision with the hotel’s goals.

How do you keep on top of new design innovations?

I keep abreast of new design innovations through continual exploration and education: attending industry events, travelling, sourcing art and discovering everything new in the market, meeting interesting people (as it helps me design better through knowing their stories and way of life), connecting with fellow designers, and engaging with emerging technologies. I also value collaboration with artisans and brands that prioritise innovation and craftsmanship.

How are sustainability considerations changing the world of interior design?

Sustainability is not a topic anymore, it’s the day-to-day decisions that are reshaping interior design and demanding us to make more conscious choices. From sourcing materials to optimising energy efficiency, every decision counts. It’s exciting to see how innovation is being applied to create sustainable solutions that embody aesthetic appeal while being kind to our planet.

The theme for the 2025 edition of the Independent Hotel Show is ‘Redefining Luxury’ – what comes to mind for you when we talk about luxury interior design for hotels?

When I think of ‘Redefining Luxury’, I envision a shift towards authentic experiences that prioritise quality over opulence: subtle luxury, an exclusive approach to travellers, and curated stays. Luxury interior design for hotels should celebrate tranquillity and connection, as well as wellness, allowing guests to appreciate the subtleties of their surroundings. It's about creating spaces that resonate with a sense of quiet elegance and innovation, inviting guests into a world of curated comfort.