We were lucky to catch up with Paul Bishop recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Paul thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Most good stories start by taking a risk.

My first step towards establishing Bishop Design was all about braving the unknown. 18 years on and we’re still evolving, which I like to think is a result of maintaining that same mindset.

With our roots in Dubai and most recently a studio here in Miami, our decision to venture across the pond has ultimately been a huge gamble.

Over the years we’ve been very fortunate to design venues across the globe and work with some big names thanks to the reputation we’ve built from Dubai and The Middle East. Miami was a new playground where hardly anyone knew us at the start. There was a reputation that had to be built from scratch here.

So why risk it?

We know we must challenge ourselves to be able to grow, and I’ve said it before that the worst thing that can happen to any creative is that they become complacent. The energy and vibrancy in Miami laid the foundations for a perfect new home. The F&B opportunities in particular are incredibly exciting.

It hasn’t even been a year since our expansion and it’s already becoming clear to us that taking the risk was the right move. We’ve started works on projects including 3 restaurants in Miami for well-known F&B giants, a nightclub in Tampa, another restaurant in The Hamptons, and an entertainment-driven bar destination in Las Vegas. Each one inherently posing opportunities to learn, grow, and most importantly, have fun! Developing the hospitality scene in Miami and the US as we go.

When you trust in your abilities and expertise, you are unstoppable. Every risk comes with that fear of uncertainty. But when you believe in yourself, your end goal, and your vision; you will find success wherever you go. The comfort zone wasn’t built for creatives. Accept a new challenge, embrace opportunities, and take that first step forward!

Paul, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I studied in the United Kingdom. After receiving two bachelors: one in Interior Design from Kingston University and the other in Furniture and Product design from Brighton University, I went on to achieve my master’s degree in Interior Architecture from Manchester University.

One day in 1995 still living in Manchester and creating music videos for bands, I got a phone call from someone asking if I was available for an interview. Honestly, I was quite confused as to how they’d even got my details (it turns out my mother had put my CV into an agency to try and get me work!) Following that, I was offered an interior design position in Dubai. At that time I didn’t even know where the place really was! It certainly wasn’t the luxury destination we all know today. But I took that risk and accepted, catching a flight on Valentine’s Day in 1996 with nothing but a backpack. I spent the next 8 years working there as a designer.

Then in 2004, I received a once in a lifetime offer from one of the worlds leading design agencies at that time. They wanted me to head up their Singapore office as design director. It was an incredible opportunity, but I became hesitant. Dubai was buzzing with transformation. Modern infrastructure was on its way, and I realized I could be part of the evolution that was unfolding. So I turned down the offer, and Bishop Design was born.

From a shared warehouse to an award-winning interior design firm based in Dubai and Miami, we have worked on projects that include SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, Torno Subito by Massimo Bottura, and a luxury island development in The Bahamas.

We’re very proud to have received a stream of accolades for our projects, as well as International Interior Design Firm of the Year and Interior Designer of the Year on multiple occasions.

All of that snowballed from taking a risk all those years ago.

Our Clients, suppliers, and industry peers have all been a huge part of our journey, and for that we’re incredibly thankful.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Seeing people engage with what we create. I love seeing a project go from a drawing on a piece of paper to a fully-fledged space; that whole process is so fulfilling and we learn with every new opportunity that comes our way. For me, nothing beats visiting our spaces and seeing how people interact with it. We’re building environments for people to enjoy and make memories. It’s such an honor to do what we love daily and bring new experiences to a global audience.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

Creatively speaking, inspiration comes from everywhere and I encourage any artist or designer to immerse themselves in as many resources as possible! Whether it be film, theatre, travel, music, books, or art. I’ve been inspired by the likes of Vivienne Westwood, Carlo Scarpa, Jamie Reed, and film directors such as Ridley Scott and Wes Anderson. We’re receptive to everything around us and we should channel those sentiments into what we create.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.wearebishopdesign.com
• Instagram: @bishopdesignmiami
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearebishopdesign
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wearebishopdesign/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/wearebishopdes