hello, i'm jan lewis, a

space planner +

interior Detail design
specialist

  - Hospitality
  - Leisure
  - Wellness

A visionary Space Planner and Interior Designer from Cape Town with a foundation in Fine Art, I present a portfolio of exceptional space planning, curated millwork, and bespoke furnishings.
As former Design Principal at Wilson & Associates (USA), I blend artistry with pragmatism to craft award-winning, one-of-a-kind environments that are as functional as they are inspiring.

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FEATURED CLIENTS

"Great design starts with smart space planning.

With over 35 years of international experience in hospitality design, I know that every square meter needs to serve a clear purpose, for both the guest and the operator.

I’ve partnered with top hotel brands to create spaces that flow effortlessly, feel great to be in, and function beautifully behind the scenes. By combining thoughtful layouts with refined detailing, I design interiors that are visually striking, operationally efficient, and tailored to each project’s unique character."

Sheraton Al Khalidiya Hotel Abu Dhabi UAE

Maputu Holiday Inn Southern Sun - Mozambique

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort Dubai UAE

The Palace of the Lost City - Sun International Rustenburg South Africa

Services

[01]

Space Planning

Concept Development

Space Allocation

Circulation Mapping

My space planning process integrates concept development, precise space allocation, and circulation mapping to create cohesive, functional environments. I prioritize aesthetics, optimize the guest experience, and ensure practical efficiency for operating staff, delivering spaces that are both visually compelling and highly functional.

[02]

Furniture Layout Plans

Spatial Efficiency

Ergonomic Comfort & Accessibility

Maintaining Brand Identity

My furniture layouts prioritize and maximize spatial efficiency for both guests and staff, ensuring ergonomic comfort and accessibility, and maintaining a cohesive aesthetic that aligns with the brand’s identity and overall ambiance.

[03]

Ceiling & Lighting Layout Plans

Optimizing Lighting Design

HVAC & Acoustic Solutions

Design Narrative & Brand Identity

Developing interior ceiling layout plans involves optimizing lighting design for ambiance and functionality, integrating HVAC and acoustic solutions for guest comfort, and incorporating aesthetic elements that enhance the overall design narrative and brand identity.

[04]

Elevation & Section Drawings

Accuracy, Clarity & functionality

Architectural & Spatial Elements

Dimensional Accuracy & Compliance

When creating interior design elevation and section drawings, accuracy, clarity, and functionality are key. These drawings must precisely represent architectural elements, spatial relationships, and material selections to balance aesthetics with operational efficiency.

[05]

Millwork, metalwork & Masonry Detailing

Durability & Quality

Brand Aesthetics & Storytelling

Functionality & Operational Efficiency

I design and create durable, high-quality custom millwork, metalwork, and masonry, along with bespoke, curated furnishings. Each piece reflects your brand’s identity and enhances the overall guest experience. My focus is on both aesthetics and functionality, ensuring that every detail supports operational efficiency and elevates the space.

recent
projects

Spa Layout in Accra - Ghana

I was brought on board to lead the space planning, detailing, and design for a spa, as part of Phase Two development, for a hotel in Accra, Ghana.

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King & Twin Flexible Guestroom

I was commissioned to design a versatile guestroom layout that would comfortably accommodate both couples and two individuals sharing, whether they are work colleagues or family members.

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Perfect Guestroom Cabinet

I designed the ultimate utilities cabinet, striking the perfect balance between ergonomics and practicality. Not only is it handsome in stature, but it is also highly functional and enhances the aesthetic appeal of the guestroom interior.

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Vertical Chilled Wine Cellar

“This vertical wine cellar is thoughtfully designed with temperature control, showcasing a selection of wines and champagnes expertly paired with the hotel’s finest culinary creations to elevate the dining experience.”

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Hammam Spa in Al Ain - UAE

I successfully space planned a Male & Female Hammam Spa layout in Al-Ain, UAE, ensuring seamless functionality, privacy, and adherence to cultural and operational requirements.

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Exclusive Manor House & Spa

I was approached by a private investor who wanted to create an exclusive 9 key, all suite, manor house and spa in Windhoek, Namibia

View Project

Why Choose me?

(01)

Experience

With a robust background in space planning and interior design, including my role as Design Principal at Wilson & Associates (USA), I specialize in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces for hotels, resorts, spas, and restaurants. My expertise focuses on spatial efficiency, circulation mapping, and optimizing traffic flow to ensure smooth movement for both guests and staff. By integrating fine arts with interior architecture, I craft designs that balance beauty and practicality, enhancing both the guest experience and operational efficiency. My approach is rooted in understanding client needs, market trends, and the unique narrative of each location, ensuring every project is tailored to its environment and purpose

(02)

Tailored Solutions

- Hotel, Spa & Restuarant - Operators & Owners

I provide strategic space planning solutions to overcome layout challenges, integrating lighting, furniture, ceiling plans, bespoke millwork, operational equipment, and MEP services for functionality and aesthetics.

- Architects, Interior Designers & Decorators

I provide comprehensive space planning services to architects, interior designers, and decorators, delivering detailed plans and precise shop drawings on a contract or freelance basis, ensuring seamless integration with your design vision.

- Hotel Operators, Weddings & Events Planners

I provide space planning for hotel operators and wedding & event planners, optimizing layouts for ballrooms, banquet halls, and event spaces. My designs enhance guest flow, maximize capacity, and integrate staging and seating.

(03)

work worldwide

I offer expert remote space planning and design services, delivering tailored solutions that meet global hospitality standards. With a proven track record of collaborating with leading hotel operators, I ensure seamless communication across time zones to deliver high-quality results worldwide.

(04)

Sustainability Focus

I integrate sustainable design practices to reduce environmental impact and boost long-term operational efficiency. My approach ensures eco-friendly solutions that benefit both the planet and your business.

(05)

Attention to Detail

I thoughtfully design every element, ensuring even the smallest details contribute to both functionality and aesthetics. My focus on precision creates spaces that are as practical as they are visually appealing

(06)

Proven Results

I have a proven track record of delivering high-quality, functional designs for top-tier hotels, resorts, spas, and restaurants. My work consistently meets and exceeds client expectations, ensuring impactful and lasting results that elevate both guest experiences and operational efficiency.

(07)

creativity & innovationn

By combining fine arts with interior architecture, I create unique, visually striking spaces that balance aesthetics with functionality.

Working Experience

AutoCAD

Autodesk

Sketchup

Trimble Inc

V-ray

Chaos

Office 365

Microsoft

Some Numbers

37

Years of experience

158+

Projects Completed

98+

Clients

98%

Clients satisfied

11+

Countries

2+

Awards

WORKING PROCESS

[STEP-1]

Send Me an Email

Take the first step, send me your details, and I’ll handle the rest.

[STEP-2]

Defining Your Vision

During the discovery phase, I work closely with you and your team to understand your needs, challenges, and goals, bridging the gap between theoretical concepts and practical solutions.

[STEP-3]

Cost Estimation

Based on the project scope and requirements, I provide a detailed cost estimate and proposed timeline, ensuring transparency and alignment with your budget and expectations.

[STEP-4]

Conceptualise

In this phase, creativity, functionality, and aesthetics come together to solidify the vision from the discovery process.
I produce furniture layouts, ceiling designs, lighting layouts, and concept millwork drawings, giving you a clear understanding of the cohesive design direction and intention.

[step-5]

Approval

I present the refined design concept, incorporating your feedback. This includes space planning, material selections, and key design elements. Once approved, I can proceed with producing the final documentation.
[Any major changes made after approval may incur additional charges.]

[step-6]

Design Development

Every intricate detail of the project; layouts, material selections, furnishing types, and standard equipment is established, documented, and incorporated into the design.
We do not specify FF&E [furniture, fixtures and equipment] nor finishes.

[step-7]

Documentation

We prepare comprehensive documentation for both the tender and construction phases, covering blockwork, furniture, and ceiling and lighting layouts, including detailed elevations and shop drawings for millwork items. [All finishes, lighting, and ironmongery schedules are excluded.]

[step-8]

Love your new space

Celebrate your newly transformed space; specifically designed to inspire, comfort, and continuously elevate your experience and that of others.

Client Reviews

"Jan has masterfully transformed three of our hotels, his space planning is truly unmatched in the industry."

Sven Thieme

Executive Chairman Ohlthaver & List

"Jan expertly balances aesthetics and functionality, creating spaces that enhance guest experience and operational efficiency in hospitality and wellness."

Alex Takyi Yeboah

Chairman & Hotel Owner, Ghana

FAQ

Can you work with our existing AutoCAD drawings & designs?

Yes, this would be ideal. I require accurate as-built CAD (.dwg or .dxf format) drawings to assess the overall footprint and project area effectively. Ideally, I prefer sections and elevations to gain a comprehensive understanding of the space.

What happens after the concept design is ready and I approve it?

After the concept approval of key furniture, ceiling, lighting layouts, and millwork concept drawings, the Design Development process begins. This includes finalizing all project details, layouts, furnishings, and material type selections that will be incorporated into detailed drawings and issued for further development by others.
‍
(SPECIFYING FF&E & FINISHES ARE NOT PART OF MY SCOPE OF SERVICES)

Do you charge for additional revisions?

My design process includes a set number of revisions as outlined in the proposal. Any additional revisions beyond this scope may be subject to an extra fee, depending on the complexity and time required. I always strive to collaborate closely with my clients to ensure their vision is achieved efficiently.

I have an interior design | decorating | architectural company. Can I outsource work to you?

- Yes, I support architects, interior designers, and decorators by handling overflow or freelance work.

- I specialize in producing detailed plans and shop drawings for projects that require design and detailing assistance.

- While I have my own unique drawing style, I can also adapt to other styles to align with your company’s criteria and standards.

What do I need to give you to get started?

TO BEGIN THE DESIGN PROCESS, I REQUIRE THE FOLLOWING:

- Accurate as-built CAD drawings (.dwg or .dxf format), including plans, sections, and elevations.

- If CAD drawings are unavailable, detailed hand-drawn layout plans and elevations with written dimensions will suffice.

- Photographic images of the existing space.

- A detailed project brief outlining requirements, objectives, challenges, and specific design preferences.

- Information on budget, timeline, and any operational constraints.

Why dont you specify Furniture, Fixtures, & Equipment, including Finishes?

- I manage the initial, more complex phase of the design process, allowing other professionals or influancers to focus on the exciting, decorative aspects.

- Many clients and operators have the ability, and prefer, to source their own furnishings, fittings, and finishes that complement a well-planned and designed interior.

- There aren't many internationally recognized hospitality space planners with over 35 years of experience like myself. I specialize in creating the essential infrastructure that enables talented decorators and designers to bring your vision to life in the final outcome.

- Many hospitality, leisure, and wellness brands have their own material and finish criteria. My process fosters effective collaboration, where I focus on space planning, design, and material selection, while others can concentrate on refining finishes and enhancing brand simulation and awareness.