1508 London is an internationally recognised architecture and interior design firm with a portfolio spanning some of the world’s most prestigious projects. As Fortis begins its first collaboration with 1508 London on 55 William in Double Bay, we sat down with Co-Founder and Partner, Hamish Brown, to discuss the evolution of luxury living, the importance of design integrity, and the principles that continue to guide their work.
Q—Hamish, can you please tell us a little about 1508 London?
A—1508 London is an international architecture and interior design firm, and our portfolio extends to private residences, hotels and luxury developments around the world. Since 2010, we’ve grown from our London office into a global practice—with studios across Europe, the Middle East, Asia and the Americas.
Our name originates from the idea of perfection in design, inspired by the year 1508 when Michelangelo was commissioned to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling. This was a pivotal moment in the Italian Renaissance, and a period when art and architecture flourished through innovation, creativity and craftsmanship.
Q—How would you describe the underlying philosophy of 1508 London?
A—At 1508 London, we’ve intentionally chosen not to build the studio around one individual or a particular style. Instead, our approach is collaborative and considered, bringing together people from different cultures, backgrounds and disciplines to shape each project.
As we’ve grown internationally, that diversity has become one of our greatest strengths. It allows us to create spaces that feel individual, timeless and genuinely connected to their setting, rather than following a trend. That’s why clients come to us from all over the world, from private homeowners to leading hoteliers and developers.
Q—What are some of the biggest industry trends and/or changes you’re noticing at the moment?
A—One of the most significant shifts we’re seeing, particularly across Asia Pacific, is the continued convergence of hospitality and residential design. Today’s buyers are no longer simply purchasing a home, they’re investing in a broader living experience. Branded residences have become a natural evolution of this, bringing together the service, experience and operational excellence traditionally associated with world-class hotels and translating them into everyday living.
As designers, that challenges us to think beyond individual spaces and create holistic environments that deliver the same sense of arrival, comfort and emotional connection.
Q—What’s the most important stage of a project? Why?
A—The most important stage is the one you’re in. Every decision made throughout a project’s lifecycle either strengthens or compromises the final outcome. We see design as a continuous process rather than a series of milestones. From the earliest strategic conversations through to final styling and handover, every stage carries a shared responsibility in creating something truly exceptional.
Q—1508 London and Fortis are about to collaborate for the first time on 55 William in Double Bay. Why do you think our two businesses work so well together?
A—Both of our businesses are design-led, and we understand how quality, longevity and experience define enduring places. Fortis projects have a strong sense of identity and community, while 1508 London focuses on interiors that complement that vision through timeless design and meticulous attention to detail. It’s a partnership built on shared values, and that alignment ultimately translates into a more considered outcome.
Q—At the end of a project, what does success look like for you?
A—Success is when a project transcends the brief. When you walk into a space years after completion and it feels as relevant, elegant and compelling as the day it opened. At 1508 London, our ambition is to create environments with enduring value that continue to inspire those who experience them. If we’ve achieved that while realising our client’s vision and creating spaces that foster a genuine emotional connection, then we’ve been successful.
