PURPOSE TELLS YOU WHAT MATTERS

Whether we are working with a resort, restaurant, hotel or residential client, our process starts with research, an exploration into the project’s purpose.

Its location and historical context, culture, business and market considerations, together with aesthetics and the functional needs of a space, are all considered from the outset, resulting in a cohesive, memorable and powerful gestalt.

An important part of intentional, or conscious, design is understanding what makes people feel good about the space they are in. Given our European origins, our perspective is global, and this has served us well in understanding the diverse needs of different cultures when designing for clients serving an international clientele.

HAPPIER, HEALTHIER SPACES 

Where possible, we look to incorporate ideas and materials that contribute to wellness and sustainability—values that have long been important to us both personally and professionally.

Our experience has shown us that small incremental adjustments can make a huge difference, improving both the project and the bottomline. These changes may include incorporating natural elements to satisfy our innate need for a connection to nature; choosing non-toxic materials for improved air quality; incorporating ethically sourced materials that endure; or optimizing energy flow for enhanced wellbeing.

All these aspects have been shown to contribute to spaces people want to be in, because they feel happier, healthier and more balanced. 

A PROCESS BUILT ON EMPATHY AND TRUST

In the implementation phase, our process is marked by a thoroughness and discipline our clients appreciate. As experienced professionals, we understand the importance of collaborative relationships built on empathy and trust. Guiding the project from start to finish, we recognize things change and there is always the need for responsiveness, resourcefulness and flexibility.

This open, dynamic exchange also exists between the disciplines of architecture and design. Rather than existing in separate silos, we maintain a flow of ideas back and forth. Working in this way—from the “inside out” and the “outside in”—not only enhances the interplay of creative ideas, but also results in greater efficiency and ultimately, a better product.

ANISSA MENDIL, WELL AP is an interior designer with a modern vision that finds inspiration in Nature and a vast range of cultural influences from around the world.
She first visited Arizona in 1996 and was profoundly affected by the mystery and unique beauty of the Southwest. The impact would shape her future. While studying Interior Architecture at the University of Applied Sciences in Rosenheim, Germany, Anissa returned to Arizona for a transformative internship at the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture at Taliesin West in Scottsdale. The impressions made on her during this time, both intellectual and inspirational, played a significant role on her growth as a designer.

On the path to develop her unique vision, Anissa moved between Germany and Arizona during her early career. These experiences provided the basis for her exceptional cultural perspective and motivated her to bring a new energy and sensibility to the hospitality and wellness industries.

Beginning a new chapter in the UK in 2007, Anissa met Ben Meyer while they worked together at an established design firm. Their connection was instant and inspired. Finding much symmetry in their partnership, the two started their own firm in Central London, where Seven am Design was formed in 2009. Complementing each other’s skills and strengths, the firm focused on commercial and hospitality design. Anissa’s role as Creative Director honed her vision, allowing her natural and crafted talents to shine.

Wanting to bring a deeper dimension to her design work, Anissa pursued the study of Classical Feng Shui. This knowledge brought an additional level of mindfulness to each project, while expanding her insight into the practical, personal and creative processes of interior design.

Working as a product designer for German glassware manufacturer Ritzenhoff, she explored other forms of creative expression as well. Her clever and vibrant designs have been a favorite of many around the world and successfully showcase her artistic talents.

Returning to the beauty that inspired her years before, Anissa and Ben moved to Scottsdale in 2013, where they also got married. Together, theycreated the Commercial and Hospitality division at local architectural firm, 3rd story. As Director of Interior Design, Anissa’s talents fueled the firm’s rapid rise to success. Imaginative design and flawless attention to detail, paired with distinctive materials, brings an effortless light and energy to her spaces.

Driving such dynamic projects as The Hotel Valley Ho, The Fat Ox, The Mission, Kierland, and Civana Carefree, the duo quickly made a name for themselves in the Southwest.

In 2018, they launched Mendil + Meyer Design Studio in Scottsdale. As Principal Designer, Anissa appreciates the importance of bringing an uplifting experience to people through her designs, through her unique perspective, and through her passion for wellness. She creates modern, yet relatable spaces that both excite and sooth visitors, while fostering a balance between mind and body, and making every space an exceptional experience.

“wellness should not be viewed as a trend rather an instinctive part of our daily lives”

Combined with her passion for creating inspiring interiors, Anissa understands the important connections between client and designer that develop during the design process. She works to establish a relationship of trust, respect, and vision that is reflective of each client’s individual goals. Continually striving for growth, Anissa is now WELL AP certified from the International WELL Building Institute. Dedicated to the ethical stewardship of our planet, she also encourages the use of sustainable methods and materials for her projects.

BEN MEYER, AIA is an architect with a passion for re-purposing existing places and spaces. He was introduced to the world of architecture by his Step-Dad at age 10 where his enthusiasm for the art of technical drawing, which he devotedly practiced as a teenager, has helped guide his industrious career.

Completing his degree in Architectural Technology in 2000, Ben gained experience in London working for MEPK Architects before joining Eades Hotwani Partnership as an Associate Director in 2004. With responsibilities ranging from project architect, managing staff, developing financial growth strategies, and directing multi-million-pound projects, Ben refined his architectural talents, as well as his business skills. It was here that Ben first met Anissa Mendil in 2007.

In 2009 the duo set out on their own and co-founded Seven am Design in central London. The firm focused on commercial and hospitality design, where they acquired many notable and repeat clients. With an insightful talent for design and comprehensive understanding of project delivery, Ben quickly helped cement the company’s reputation in the London market.

2013 was a significant year as the opportunity to live and work in America became a reality, and with the attitude of ‘no regrets’, Ben and Anissa relocated to the Southwest. Together, they co-founded the Commercial and Hospitality division at local architectural firm, 3rd story. As Director of commercial architecture and design, Ben was influential in establishing the brand, while also making a name for himself within the industry as an expert in commercial and hospitality design. Recognition of Ben and Anissa’s rapid growth in the market came in the form of multiple awards by NEWH, including Top ID firm in 2017 & 2018 together with Fat Ox being awarded best new restaurant in 2017 by the Arizona chapter.

In 2018, the pair launched Mendil + Meyer Design Studio in Scottsdale, AZ where they are dedicated to becoming leaders in hospitality design. As Principal, Ben brings a proven business aptitude and a keen eye for design where he promotes a less is more approach.

“Build to last should be the first initiative considered when we think about an approach to sustainability”

Ben is passionate about the sustainable aspects of re-purposing and adaptive re-use which is ingrained through his European experience and heritage. Seeking opportunities with existing structures and the unique spaces that are created is a driving force for Ben’s creativity. He feels strongly that the sustainable approach to design and construction is all too often focused on ticking a box rather than making a meaningful impact on the environment and the social fabric of the area. Ben sees the desire to tear down and build new as a major flaw in today’s society. Instead, he feels ‘build to last’ should be the first initiative considered when we think about an approach to sustainability.

Integrated with his love of architecture and design, Ben uses the medium of photography to both explore the environment around him, together with documenting his projects. ‘The world as I see it’ is Ben’s approach to photography, centered around a goal to document the subject matter as authentically as possible, with minimal staging or direction.

With his roots firmly planted in American society, Ben has obtained his Architectural License which enables the firm to offer a complete range of services that provides their Clients’ with a fully coordinated design, blending, form, function and aesthetics into a single, unified product.