Marie Morrison: A Leader In Design Innovation And Excellence

A visionary leader, business strategist, and the brain behind GPV, Marie Morrison brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, navigating the landscapes of the UK and Italy. With an in-depth understanding of the Italian Design sector, including both the Residential and Hospitality Industries, Marie has established herself as a trusted authority. Her close association with Italian manufacturers grants her access to the finest materials and products that she skillfully matches to each client’s distinctive needs and strengthens GPV’s position. Her dedication to delivering exceptional service has gained her respect and trust from both her clients and the design community. Under her remarkable leadership, GPV brings innovative, top-notch design solutions to life.

Galleria Ponte Veneto’s Vision: Evolution Over the Years

GPV was founded with a clear vision: to assist the architects & design studios in creating bespoke products that are truly unique and, in most cases, a product manufactured to suit a specific design need. Over time, this vision has guided the company’s journey, empowering it to emerge as a trusted partner looking for exceptional, one-of-a-kind solutions.

Ensuring Quality and Consistency 

The advantage of dealing with GPV is its ability to be present both in the UK and Italy, which enables the company to maintain a close track and provide constant updates to clients. This personal oversight ensures that quality and consistency are upheld across diverse products, from artisanal pieces to industrial goods. GPV makes sure that clients get the highest quality products and service by being directly involved in the production process.

From Bespoke to Large-Scale

GPV has a proven track record of handling many challenging projects. One notable example is the bespoke suite supplied to the “Editions Hotel” in New York during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the unprecedented global difficulties, the company has overcome the challenges and delivered high-quality products.

Fostering Transparency and Trust in Procurement 

GPV ensures transparency and trust by keeping clients informed and involved throughout the procurement process. The company invites clients to visit the production sites during the manufacturing process, not only for the final mock-up. For clients who cannot be present, GPV provides regular updates through photos and videos, showcasing the current state of the order and making clients an integral part of the show, not only to inform them of the current situation but also to make them part of the experience.

Bridging Design Vision with Logistical Reality

GPV plays a significant role in turning clients’ design vision into reality. The company listens attentively to clients’ requests and guides them towards realistic solutions that meet the highest quality standards and productive efficiency with Italian design. Through this, GPV ensures that design aspirations are balanced with practical considerations, resulting in notable results.

A Unique Leadership Approach: Built on Experience and Understanding

With over three decades of experience working across multicultural teams, Marie has gained extensive knowledge of working across multicultural teams. Having integrated well into the Italian business landscape, she has earned the respect of many suppliers. Her approach focuses on balancing client requests with the practical reality of producing bespoke products at the highest excellence of quality, while maintaining cost effectiveness and realistic lead times.

Balancing Hands-on Involvement with Team Autonomy

The team at GPV thrives on the presence of different nationalities and offers a wide scope of professionals with extensive experience. These experts excel in handling both large and small requests and thrive at working under pressure. The team’s focus is on achieving an exceptional outcome, which is considered the real challenge.

Nurturing Lasting Relationships

GPV considers all clients, whether minor or high-level, to be of utmost importance. Satisfied clients become the company’s best publicity for the future. Whilst clients are vital for any successful business, the supply chain at all levels is the backbone of the company. GPV is committed to promoting small artisans, preserving their know-how, and encouraging young people to continue these traditional crafts. The company also respects industrial suppliers for their expertise and efficiency in a highly competitive manufacturing industry.

Overcoming Common Misconceptions 

As a foreigner in Italy, Marie quickly had to learn the differences in mentality. Clients often misunderstand the timing required to realize certain products. However, Italians are dedicated to the excellence of their products and strive to convey this message to the client. They can create something amazing and original when they are stimulated to achieve a new design, which is the key reason why the world considers them the leaders in Design.

A Delicate Balance in Design Collaboration 

GPV navigates differing expectations between architects, designers, and clients by adopting a nuanced approach that respects the unique needs of each stakeholder. The team understands that each party needs a distinct approach, and it is their role to evolve the request and create a cohesive “ design lifeline” that bridges various roles.

By leveraging its expertise in sourcing innovative materials and suppliers, GPV guides and stimulates architects & designers, empowering them to push the boundaries of their creativity. Meanwhile, the team takes a more personalized approach with end clients, taking time to understand their preferences and needs. This enables GPV to create personalized solutions to meet the clients’ specific needs, shielding them from the influence of unrealistic or unsuitable products.

Trends in Architectural and Interior Design 

The architectural and interior design procurement market in Europe is witnessing a notable shift towards sustainability and quality. There is a renewed focus on utilizing high-quality materials that not only meet aesthetic standards but also prioritize environmental sustainability. This trend is driven by the increasing interest in creating products that last throughout time.

A Vision for Growth and Innovation 

Over the next 5-10 years, GPV aspires to strengthen its position in the design sector while dedicating more space to highlight the work of talented artisans who struggle to gain visibility. By providing a platform for these craftspeople, GPV seeks to bring unique experiences that highlight the value of artisanal expertise.

GPV is also focused on nurturing the next generation of design talent, identifying the significance of supporting students in the field, and empowering them to emerge. Looking ahead, GPV is exploring new markets beyond the U.K. and Italy with an increasing interest in the North American market. The company is taking its initial steps in its territory and has established the foundation for future growth.

The Evolving Role of Procurement

Marie sees the future role of Procurement as evolving into a strategic sourcing tool for the architects and designers. Rather than solely responding to requests, procurement professionals will proactively update on new materials and present innovative ideas through engaging “brainstorming” workshops held at regular intervals.

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Marie envisions GPV to be considered the “ linking bridge” between an industrial and Artisan sector dedicated to finding the right solution and achieving the excellence of bespoke products to make the client feel unique and feel satisfied with the product that they helped realize for their project by working together with the team and hopefully had the opportunity of shaking hands with the person who made their dream come true.