11 Questions for Brazilian Designer Sig Bergamin

How did you get started in architecture and design? How would you describe your  personal aesthetic? 

My journey into architecture and design began quite organically and intuitively. From a  young age, in my hometown in the interior of São Paulo state, I already knew I wanted to  pursue this path. At 14, I had the opportunity to decorate a club for Carnival, and even without compensation, this work earned me significant recognition. At that moment, it became clear to me that design and architecture would be my life. I enrolled in the Architecture and Urbanism Faculty in the city of Santos with the aim of turning my passion into a profession. I lived in São Paulo (50 miles away) and made the journey by bus every day.  

When it comes to my aesthetic, I always say: "My style is to have no style." I am an  advocate of eclecticism and maximalism, believing that true beauty lies in the harmonious mix of elements from different eras, cultures, and styles. For me, each project is a blank canvas where I can combine colors, textures, and cultural references to create something unique and authentic. I am not afraid of making mistakes and I always take risks. I take many risks. I don't follow a specific formula; instead, I let each space tell its own story, reflecting the soul and personality of its inhabitants. That’s who I am. 

How do you start working with a new client? 

Working with a new client begins with a deep conversation. I like to understand who the person is, their passions, their tastes, and even their memories. Where they’ve traveled, where they plan to travel, which hotels they stayed at, which restaurants they dined at... everything is a reference. I enjoy listening attentively to what the client envisions for the space, their dreams, and needs. This initial dialogue is crucial for me to create a project  that is truly personalized and reflects the client’s essence. From there, we start exploring possibilities together, always with a lot of idea and reference exchange.

What are the key elements to consider when starting an interior design project? 

When starting a project, I consider that the most important elements are functionality,  comfort, and personality. It’s crucial to understand how the space will be used daily and how it can meet the practical needs of the client. At the same time, the design should express the identity of those who will inhabit the space, whether through colors, textures, furniture, or artworks. Another fundamental point is harmony between the environments, ensuring that all areas of the house communicate with each other, creating a sense of unity and flow. 

How do you balance functionality and aesthetics in your designs? 

I believe that functionality and aesthetics are not opposites but rather complementary.  Comfort always comes first. To balance these two aspects, I always start with  functionality—considering the layout, circulation flow, and the specific needs of the  inhabitants. Then, aesthetics are worked on to enhance this functionality, using colors, materials, and details that make the space visually appealing without compromising its  daily use.

What common mistakes do people make when designing their homes, and how can  they be avoided? 

A common mistake is blindly following trends without considering whether they actually work for the space or the inhabitant’s lifestyle. I don’t like trends. To me, what is beautiful is beautiful. Period. We shouldn’t be guided by the moment but by what is beautiful. Another mistake is neglecting the importance of planning, especially in terms of layout, lighting, and budget. A poorly resolved layout, or too much or too little lighting, can ruin a good project. 

How do you choose a color palette for a space, and what factors should be  considered? Is there any color you currently like or enjoy working with? 

Choosing a color palette is an intuitive and very personal process. I consider the purpose of the space, the available natural light, and, of course, the client's preferences. I like colors that bring life and personality to the space, without fear of daring and mixing tones. Currently, I have a preference for shades of green, which are versatile and can be used both as neutrals and as accent colors. Green, in addition to evoking nature, brings freshness and tranquility to spaces. But a color I dislike and never use is gray. I truly struggle to incorporate or use it in my projects.

What are some ways to make a small space look larger and more open? 

To visually enlarge a small space, I like to use mirrors strategically, as they reflect light  and give a sense of depth. I also prefer furniture with lighter and more functional lines that don’t overwhelm the space. Choosing light colors and neutral tones for walls and furnishings can help create a sense of spaciousness. Another trick is to keep the space well-organized. I like things to be neat, aligned, and symmetrical. An extra tip is that the great Valentino said that in a small space, you should use a large piece, even somewhat disproportionate. 

What are your recommendations for incorporating lighting effectively? 

Lighting is one of the most important elements in any design project. I always  recommend a layered lighting plan that combines general, task, and accent lighting. Each  type of lighting has its role and can be used to create different atmospheres. Natural light  should be maximized, and artificial light sources should be chosen according to  functionality and the effect you want to create. Fixtures, lamps, and recessed lights are essential for highlighting specific elements and creating a welcoming environment. But I don’t design lighting. I choose floor lamps, chandeliers, etc., but for technical and functional lighting, I always trust a light designer I trust after the layout is defined. 

How do you approach the selection and arrangement of artwork and decorative  items? 

The first thing I do when selecting and arranging artwork and decorative items is to  understand what the client already has. It’s essential to know the art pieces and objects  they already own, as these are the foundations upon which the rest of the design will be  built. From there, I analyze the client's references and start looking for artists and works  that resonate with these pieces.

What are your best practices for creating a harmonious flow between different  areas of a home? 

Creating a harmonious flow between spaces is crucial for the house to function as a  cohesive whole. I like to use a color palette that subtly repeats in different areas, creating a visual connection. I also use materials and textures that interact with each other, even with variations, to ensure a sense of continuity. Additionally, furniture placement should be designed to facilitate movement between spaces, avoiding visual or physical barriers that interrupt the natural flow. None of this is a rule, but these are guidelines that guide me. 

What is some advice you would give someone starting their first interior design  project? 

The main advice I would give is: be patient and don’t rush. Interior design is a process  that should be enjoyed and lived. It’s important to invest time in planning and research to understand what you truly want and how it can be translated into a functional and  aesthetically pleasing space. Don’t be afraid to take risks and express your personality in the project.