
Hello Simon
A quick question and answer session with our co-founder and Design Director Simon.
Meet Simon Grattidge - Design Director at Sinemas
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Q: Simon, can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in design?
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Simon: I didn’t take a traditional route with formal qualifications. Instead, I’ve built my expertise through hands-on experience and ongoing self-learning. My interest in design began early on—when I was a kid, I was always reworking my room, even turning it into a pub at one point. This passion for transforming spaces eventually led me to start my own AV business and then found Sinemas, so I’ve now been designing cinema rooms and entertainment spaces for over 20 years.
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Q: What’s your approach to design at Sinemas?
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Simon: My approach is simple: create spaces that are both attractive and functional. I work closely with each client to understand their needs and preferences. My goal is to make sure every detail fits perfectly, so each space is comfortable, practical, and looks great. Clear communication throughout the process is key, so clients always know what to expect.
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Q: How would you describe your design philosophy?
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Simon: My design philosophy is all about simplicity and personal touch. I aim to design spaces that reflect each client's style and requirements while keeping things timeless. I blend good looks with practicality and AV performance to make sure every space is not just beautiful but also enjoyable and useful.
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Q: What do you enjoy most about working with clients on their projects?
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Simon: I love taking little bits of information from clients and putting it all together into something they hadn’t quite imagined but end up loving. It’s rewarding to see their ideas come to life in a way that exceeds their expectations.
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Q: Can you describe a challenging project and how you approached it?
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Simon: One of the more challenging projects was fitting 25 seats into a hotel cinema room that wasn’t very large but still needed to feel luxurious. We needed the projector to be very close to a big screen. We solved this by designing bespoke seating, building a unique projector housing, and selecting the right projector to fit the space perfectly.
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Q: How do you stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in design?
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Simon: Staying updated is easy because it’s something I genuinely enjoy. The challenging part is thoroughly testing and refining designs before we introduce them to clients. I’m always learning and exploring new ideas to ensure our designs are current and top-quality.
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Q: What qualities do you think are essential for a successful design project?
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Simon: At the heart of everything we do is the balance between style and functionality. There’s no point in a beautiful room if it doesn’t get used. We make sure every space is designed to be visually appealing and practical whilst delivering outstanding AV performance.
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Q: What advice would you give to someone looking to design their own entertainment space?
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Simon: Think carefully about how you’ll use the room and who will be using it. Some of the most loved spaces we’ve designed include bar areas and their own facilities. Remember it’s a space where you can have fun and do things that might not fit in other parts of the house.
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Q: Can you share a bit about your team and how you collaborate with them?
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Simon: Our team is integral to bringing designs to life. I work closely with them to ensure every detail is covered and every project runs smoothly. Collaboration is key to making sure we meet our high standards and deliver the best results for our clients.
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Q: What’s your vision for Sinemas in the future?
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Simon: I’m looking forward to continuing to work with great clients and creating spaces they truly love. I plan to keep developing our products and building strong connections with local manufacturers to showcase top-quality craftsmanship. Quality and reliability are always our top priorities, and we’re committed to making sure every project stands out for its luxury and craftsmanship.