Nilfah Adams, Founder & Creative Director of Nilfah Adams, has given her insights into the industry.
My career began in interior design over a decade ago, rooted in a deep curiosity about how environments shape emotion, behaviour, and identity. I trained formally in interiors and built early experience within retail, hospitality, and residential projects, which sharpened my understanding of craftsmanship, materiality, and spatial flow. Over time, my work expanded internationally, across Africa, Europe and the UK, where cultural context became a central influence on my design language.
Alongside practice, I pursued advanced studies in fashion art direction and luxury brand strategy and business, enabling me to bridge interiors with storytelling, brand thinking, and experiential design. Today, through a spatial storytelling approach, I work across high-end residential projects and luxury lifestyle concepts. Crafting environments and experiences that are considered, emotionally resonant, and culturally grounded rather than trend-driven.
Interior design feels less like a career I chose and more like one that found me. Growing up, I was surrounded by both creativity and an appreciation for the built environment, an influence shaped strongly by my parents. From an early age, I felt an instinctive need to make things beautiful, but also to understand how beauty could serve a purpose in the way we live, feel, and find comfort in our everyday environments.
I became fascinated by the psychology of space - how light, texture, proportion, and even silence shape mood, memory, and behaviour. Rather than viewing interiors as decoration, I saw them as a form of lived storytelling, where intangible ideas such as belonging, grounding, and ritual could be translated into physical form. Creating spaces that quietly support human experience, rather than demand attention, continues to anchor my commitment to the profession.
The conceptual phase, where a project is defined before form emerges. This is the moment where spatial intent, identity, and narrative are established, and where design decisions gain coherence and authority. Interpreting a client’s way of living, values, and rhythms, then translating those insights into spatial structure, proportion, and atmosphere, is where the work becomes most rigorous and meaningful.
I am equally invested in the material and technical resolution of a space. Working closely with materials, artisans, and construction details allows a project to develop depth and longevity. I am drawn to creating interiors that are composed rather than styled. Spaces that feel anchored, precise, and enduring. The continual negotiation between concept and execution, intuition and discipline, creative vision and strategic thinking, is what sustains my engagement with the profession.
This past year has been defined less by a single project and more by a shift in clarity. Completing advanced postgraduate studies alongside practice allowed me to articulate my philosophy of spatial storytelling with greater precision. Seeing my work positioned not only as design, but as cultural and strategic thinking, has been a meaningful milestone.
A particularly memorable moment was the special feature of a penthouse project in Cape Town, in the House & Leisure magazine in South Africa. The project offered a culturally rich and considered response to its context, drawing colour, rhythm, and narrative directly from the views beyond the windows and the heritage of the Cape Malay Quarter. Interior and exterior were treated as a continuous dialogue, allowing place and culture to inform the spatial experience rather than simply frame it.
I am most drawn to residential and lifestyle projects where there is room for narrative and nuance. Homes, retreats, and concept-led environments allow for a deeper exploration of rhythm, ritual, and atmosphere. These projects invite a slower design process; one that honours material integrity and emotional flow.
I am particularly inspired by projects that engage with place, whether through cultural references, landscape, or craft. When a space reflects where it belongs, and who it is for, it gains authenticity. That sense of rootedness is what I aim to cultivate in every project.
One of the greatest challenges in interior design is maintaining creative integrity while navigating external constraints; budgets, timelines, and the realities of the construction process. The depth required to resolve a project properly often demands more time and attention than the industry typically allows, making it essential to balance rigor with efficiency without compromising the quality of the outcome.
Another ongoing challenge is education. There is still a need to reframe perceptions of luxury; away from immediate visual impact and toward longevity, thoughtfulness, and emotional value. Articulating this perspective requires clarity, conviction, and trust, all of which are critical to sustaining a refined and principled design practice.
I wish I had understood earlier that interior design is about far more than making spaces look beautiful. A significant part of the profession lies in communication, boundaries, and emotional intelligence. Design skill alone is not enough; much of the outcome depends on external collaborators, contractors, and specialists responsible for implementation.
This reliance on others is often where design integrity can falter. Having the right team in place and knowing how to manage, communicate, and protect the original intent is essential. Learning to articulate value, manage expectations, and safeguard creative vision throughout the build process is critical to delivering work that remains true to its concept.
I also wish I had known that it is acceptable and often necessary to say no. Not every project aligns with your values or direction. Learning to choose alignment over volume has been one of the most important lessons in shaping a sustainable and fulfilling career.
Develop a clear point of view before chasing visibility. In an oversaturated industry, what ultimately sets you apart is who you are - how you see the world, what you value, and the perspective you bring to your work. Trends will come and go, but a defined design philosophy creates longevity and relevance.
Mastery also requires patience. Understanding materials, people, process, and yourself takes time, and that evolution cannot be rushed. Allow your work to mature organically rather than forcing definition too early. Depth, authorship, and self-awareness are what build credibility and lasting impact.
I see a growing shift toward emotional sustainability, spaces designed to support well-being, identity, and longevity rather than constant renewal. Clients are becoming more discerning, valuing meaning, craftsmanship, and narrative over excess.
There is also an increasing crossover between interiors, fashion, art, and brand experience. Designers are expected to think holistically, considering how spaces communicate values and cultural relevance. This evolution favours designers who can blend creativity with strategic thinking and cultural awareness.
SBID accreditation represents professional integrity and accountability within an industry that is often visually driven but inconsistently regulated. To me, it signals a commitment to ethical practice, continual learning, and design excellence grounded in professionalism rather than aesthetics alone.
It also reinforces trust between designer and client, creativity and structure. Being aligned with SBID reflects my belief that meaningful design is not only about vision, but about responsibility, rigour, and long-term value.
About Nilfah Adams
Nilfah Adams is a spatial storyteller crafting immersive, emotionally intelligent environments where luxury, culture, and narrative converge. Her practice goes beyond aesthetics, exploring how space holds memory, shapes feeling, and supports identity. With a background spanning interiors, luxury hospitality, fashion art direction, and brand strategy, she approaches each project as a world-building exercise—layering form, texture, and meaning with conceptual clarity. Every commission begins with a singular question: What do you want to become? The answer guides a collaborative process that transforms spaces into lived experiences—refined, culturally resonant, and deeply personal. Designed with intention. Experienced with presence.
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Sofia Vladimirova BA (hons), Design Director and Founder, and Christopher Ashton B.SC (hons) M.Arch, Technical Director at Studio Archer, have given their insights into the industry.
Sofia, is a creative professional who trained at an arts school in Moscow for ten years before earning a BA in Interior and Spatial Design from the University of the Arts London (UAL). She built her career in luxury high-end interiors, working with prestigious London-based firms.
In 2020, Sofia founded her own design practice, successfully delivering high-end residential projects. In 2023, she secured a multimillion-pound commission, marking a significant milestone in her growing portfolio.
Chris was fortunate enough to start his career working on a Four Seasons Hotel proposal at ReardonSmith Architects. This was followed by assisting with hotels such as the Beaumont, the Savoy and the Hyatt Churchill, which was an explosive introduction to professional Architecture, whilst completing part 2 masters degree. The next step on the journey was in the Middle East, designing and implementing interiors for palatial projects; before returning to London for work on the Dorchester Hotel, and the Admiralty Arch hotel in a more senior capacity leading packages. A full career working in the ultra high end luxury sector gave Chris an insight in to this exclusive world and was instrumental in joining Sofia at Studio Archer to help implement these designs on a technical and co-ordination level.
Sofia: I have always been a creative person, even as a teen drawing “dream house” interiors. I have finished an art school in Moscow and when I moved to the UK in 2006 I proceeded in going to a college where I did A level in design and art, and then did BA for interior and spatial design in UAL. Being an interior designer was always my dream.
Chris: Having started my career in an architectural capacity I found myself drawn more towards technical design and implementation of interior details. The projects on which I was working required much bespoke detailing, and more problem solving than your average ID projects. As less of a designer, and more of an engineer I found myself in a niche position of having enough design knowledge to understand what the creatives wanted, but enough technical knowledge and discipline to realise these designs, which I found fascinating.
Sofia: Aside from the design process itself, it’s probably the happy tears of my clients that bring me the most joy, this is why residential was always something I preferred doing. Interiors have huge impact on our lives and making my clients dream a reality, is the best feeling. At Studio archer we provide deeply personal service, we don’t outsource any of our work- all designs, visuals, technical drawings, FF&E- all is done in house. This means we can adjust anything in a matter of few hours for our clients.
Chris: I find real joy in seeing the incredible designs Sofia creates and taking them from her head in to something tangible on the page. The process of understanding what is being designed, and why it is designed that way, to better resolve the details and issues without compromising intent. Then eventually seeing this physically come together in a way that satisfies the clients needs in ways they may not have properly realised is a joy.
Sofia: For the past 20 months or so we have been working on our biggest project to date, an 800sqm, multimillion-pound refurbishment full of bespoke joinery and details. One such item was a glass chandelier collection that had been designed and specified to the smallest detail by Studio Archer along with Kolektiv Atelier lighting. After months of waiting for it to be manufactured it finally went in and the first time the client saw this she choked up with emotion, which of course caused me to well up as well. An absolute career highlight I will never forget.
Chris: Recently I designed a geometrically complicated staircase that was quite risky to show to client before I had properly resolved the structure in 3D - but we did it anyway and they loved it. A long process developing this staircase, back and forth on how it could be done; but eventually the structure and then the boarding went up and once plastered it was such a huge relief that it all came together beautifully.
Sofia: Details, anything that we can really get in to and make unique. We don’t have a specific style, and we do not have preference in style either, all we ask is for the opportunity to develop the client’s intent in a fresh and individual way. Of course, anything that allows us bespoke design pieces means we can really put something special together, something completely new.
Chris: Agreed, if we are allowed the freedom to design everything to the millimetre, Sofia’s eye for design and my obsession with detail often makes for some truly spectacular pieces. That said, I also enjoy the challenge of being inventive with materials and finishes to enable a beautiful design without necessarily exploding the budget with custom Joinery.
Sofia: The biggest challenge we have found on this project in particular is the unpredictability of some subcontractors. Due to the size of the project we had to take a gamble and go outside of our network to meet the deadlines and while some were fantastic hidden gems, some were extremely disruptive in terms of missing deadlines, not following details and general poor attention to detail. We, of course, fixed these issues but the time and effort of doing so was difficult.
Chris: Personally, I find it very challenging to be patient in the design stage. I’m always ready to dive in and detail from the start but the reality is that the big picture is often many conversations, tweaks and revisions away from a final design. Similarly, I also find it frustrating as you inevitably go down the wrong path and have to reset and sometimes you quite literally have to just wait until the right composition reveals itself. Luckily Sofia is far more patient at this stage as I’m itching to progress.
Sofia: Probably how small a proportion of this job is about design and how much is organisation! The fun design stage is just the start, and although you do design throughout to a degree the remaining time is spent selecting, scheduling and managing the products. No matter how big the team grows the process is still primarily an organisational one, on the upside the end of the project where you again get to see your design but in reality, is entirely worthwhile.
Chris: I wish I knew how slow everything seems to move, even when it isn’t. This renovation we are currently on should realistically be a 2-year process start to finish; however it was squeezed to 18 months and STILL it feels like very long waits. Things like furniture on 12-week lead times, or complicated joinery design development, or even the time it takes to ship certain items from abroad. It feels like a long waiting game while you are in the midst of it, but then when it’s done you appreciate the scale of what you’ve achieved in a relatively short time.
Sofia: Do not expect that this job is all about designing beautiful interiors and selecting pretty fabrics, unless you opt for a decorator’s job instead. Design accounts for about 15-20% of the whole job, the rest is technical drawings, accounting, multitude of excel sheets, chasing suppliers/manufacturers, managing people on site and dealing with delays, managing clients’ expectations and often having to have uncomfortable conversations to manage expectations.
Chris: I’d second that, it certainly isn’t all about the lovely designs and drawings you see on Instagram. That is a hugely important part of the process but in terms of day to day activities, it will end up being the least of what you spend time on. The worse news is that the further you develop in your career the less involved design you’ll find yourself doing, especially if you end up running a company.
Sofia: I think it’s impossible to predict, there are more designs, more opinions, and more AI involvement by the day it seems. Navigating the noise and trying to have a clear prediction of where it is going feels impossible.
Chris: I’d say that much like fast fashion, fast interiors are certainly dominating the mid-range design space with constantly changing designs attempting to keep up with the current “trend” culture. Thankfully high-end design does feel more consistent, proportions and scales developed over centuries still reign supreme. I do predict that a return to softness and comfort both in colour and shape will evolve in the residential space. The harsh cold lines of strict white marbles and glossy surfaces make for nice photoshoots, but unforgiving spaces. I can also see people being more experimental as there seems to be more and more ID social media channels, and people are inspired by the niche design and finishes that they may not have seen before.
Sofia: As the interior design industry is largely unregulated in the UK this is a huge step in preserving the integrity of the profession. Indicating that we are trained, experienced and capable of handling projects in the millions as SBID have confirmed that we have in fact done this before.
Chris: It legitimises Studio Archer for what we are; a professional full-service interior design company that completes projects from the first thought in the clients head to the final handing over of the keys and beyond. Certifying Sofia's degrees and experience as a premium designer for high end residential, and my own qualifications as a senior architectural technologist on some of the most elite hotels in London – SBID have verified this information to give our clients peace of mind.
About Studio Archer
Studio Archer is a family-run, high-end interior design firm based in the UK, founded on a seamless collaboration between interior designer Sofia and her partner, architect Chris. Together, they bring a unique balance of creative vision and architectural precision to every project. The studio specialises in turnkey interior design, delivering projects ranging from £200,000 to £4 million. In addition to full-scope interiors, Studio Archer designs and manufactures bespoke joinery, furniture, lighting, rugs, and custom pieces, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully considered and expertly executed. Our ethos is simple: there is no such thing as bad interior style—only poorly executed design. We believe exceptional interiors are not about imposing a signature aesthetic, but about interpreting and elevating each client’s vision with clarity, creativity, and uncompromising precision.
Natasha King, Founder & Principal Designer at Styled Home Design, has given her insights into the industry.
My career began in the corporate hospitality sector, where I spent over a decade working in marketing roles for some of the UK’s largest hospitality brands. Over time, I progressed into a Head of Guest Experience position, where interior design naturally became central to my role. Understanding how guests interacted with a space, what encouraged them to stay longer, and how environment influenced spending and behaviour was key. This involved navigating commercial spatial planning from both guest and operational perspectives, considering everything from layout and lighting to materiality and even scent. That experience gave me a deep understanding of how design directly impacts emotion, behaviour and performance, knowledge that now underpins my approach to both residential and hospitality interior design.
I have always been deeply fascinated by how spaces make people feel. From a young age, I was drawn to architecture and design, how buildings are constructed, why spaces are laid out the way they are, and how materials influence atmosphere. Growing up, I moved home several times, and I instinctively created a sense of sanctuary in my own bedroom or personal spaces. Those environments gave me comfort, grounding and security, and I realised how powerful that could be. That understanding has followed me into adulthood, where my home remains incredibly important to how I feel and function day to day. Interior design allows me to combine creativity with psychology and practicality, creating spaces that genuinely support people’s wellbeing, lifestyles and emotional needs.
While I love the entire design process, seeing a project come to life is without doubt the most rewarding part. Watching an idea evolve from concept to reality, and knowing that it has enhanced a client’s wellbeing and everyday life, is incredibly fulfilling. Interior design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about shaping how a space is experienced and how it functions long-term. Being able to influence the interior architecture of a building, improve flow, introduce thoughtful details and ultimately deliver a home or space that truly works for its occupants brings me immense satisfaction. That moment when clients walk into their finished space and feel understood is what makes the process so special.
One of my most memorable highlights has been seeing my business continue to grow and evolve. Styled Home Design is approaching its fourth year, and even within that time, I’ve seen it transform through experience, projects and client relationships. Every project shapes the studio in some way, refining our processes, our confidence and our approach. I’m constantly adapting, learning and raising the bar, both creatively and professionally. That ability to evolve, rather than standing still, is something I’m incredibly proud of. Building a business that continues to mature, challenge me and deliver increasingly refined work has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the past year.
I primarily work on residential projects, particularly long-term full home renovations. I often say that I don’t have a signature design style, our signature is our approach. We place the client at the heart of everything we do, which means no two projects look the same. Full renovations allow us to really get to know our clients and design homes that reflect how they live, not just how they want their space to look. Alongside residential work, I also love boutique hospitality projects, drawing on my background in the hospitality industry. These projects often allow for more creative freedom, as they are less emotionally driven than homes and offer exciting opportunities to inject personality and bold design choices.
Coordination is by far one of the most challenging aspects of the profession. The number of decisions involved in any project is vast, and the behind-the-scenes work is something many clients don’t fully appreciate until they experience it first-hand. Managing contractors, suppliers, timelines, budgets and design intent simultaneously requires constant oversight. There are so many moving parts, and without experience, it’s easy for projects to become overwhelming or costly. This is often where clients truly see the value of working with a professional designer, our role is to manage complexity, anticipate issues and ensure everything aligns seamlessly, allowing clients to feel supported and confident throughout the process.
I wish I had fully understood just how small a percentage of the role is design. In reality, design is only a fraction of what we do. Project coordination, procurement, budgeting, client management and problem-solving account for the majority of the work and are what truly hold a project together. I also wish there was broader public understanding of what professional interior design really involves. As an industry, we still have work to do in educating clients on the value and expertise required, especially when managing significant financial investments. Organisations such as SBID play a crucial role in raising standards, providing accreditation and helping to professionalise an industry that lacks formal regulation.
Earn your stripes but then know your worth. Most creatives are deeply passionate about what they do, and that passion can sometimes be taken for granted. Early in your career, it’s important to gain experience, build a portfolio and learn the realities of the industry. However, there comes a point where you must value your expertise, time and knowledge. Being confident in your worth and setting boundaries is essential for longevity and sustainability in the profession. Loving what you do shouldn’t mean undervaluing yourself.
I believe there is still a long way to go in educating clients about the true value of interior design, particularly in the UK. Compared to Europe and the US, where working with an interior designer is far more commonplace, we are still behind. I would love to see the industry become more professionalised and trusted. I often explain to clients that hiring an interior designer is like hiring any professional service, it’s sometimes not because you can’t do it yourself, but because your time is valuable and the expertise helps avoid costly mistakes. Once clients experience the process, they quickly understand the complexity involved and the value professional design brings.
SBID accreditation represents professionalism, credibility and trust, qualities that the interior design industry truly needs. It provides clients with reassurance that they are working with a qualified professional who meets recognised standards and operates with integrity. For me, it aligns perfectly with my belief that interior design is a serious profession involving large financial investments and complex decision-making. SBID helps bridge the gap between public perception and professional reality, and I’m proud to be accredited by an organisation that champions excellence and raises industry standards.
About Styled Home Design
Styled Home Design is a Cambridge-based interior design studio specialising in luxury residential renovations and bespoke commercial interiors. We work with private homeowners, developers, and businesses who want beautifully considered spaces without the stress of managing the process themselves. Our approach is collaborative, design-led, and detail-driven, balancing timeless aesthetics with practical, liveable solutions. From concept development and spatial planning through to detailed specifications, procurement, and project management, we oversee every stage to ensure clarity, quality, and confidence. Each project is tailored to the client, resulting in refined interiors that feel personal, functional, and enduring.
This spacious living room in a Surrey home was completely transformed from a dull, underused area into something truly special. Anita de Villiers Interior Design reimagined the space as a luxurious yet comfortable room, designed for everyday family living as well as elegant entertaining. Thoughtful lighting design became the defining element, adding layers of warmth, sophistication, and subtle drama to this impressive space.
The original layout felt awkward and disconnected, with outdated furniture and harsh overhead lighting that left the room feeling uninviting. Despite this, it was clear the space had great potential to become one of the home’s most beautiful rooms. My clients wanted a complete redesign with a glamorous, modern aesthetic and luxurious finishes, and they understood that carefully planned lighting would be essential in bringing this vision to life.
They were inspired by luxury hotel interiors they had discovered during their travels, with warm, rich textures, natural materials and sophisticated spaces. Their goal was a living room that felt stylish and glamorous while remaining comfortable and inviting for family life.
"My clients had a clear vision inspired by the luxury hotels they'd experienced. The challenge was translating that sophistication into a space that worked for everyday family life." - Anita de Villiers.
The redesigned layout introduced two distinct zones: a relaxed family lounge for watching TV and a sociable seating area for entertaining. Each zone was carefully planned to feel both luxurious and practical. Layered lighting played a key role in enhancing the atmosphere, ensuring the room feels welcoming at any time of day.
One of the most impactful changes was removing the harsh overhead lighting. The existing downlights cast unflattering light across the floor and flattened the space. Instead, directional bronze spotlights were carefully positioned to highlight drapery, sculptural elements, and artwork, adding depth and visual interest.
Decorative coving with hidden LED lighting was introduced to define the lounging area while adding another layer of mood lighting. The soft glow from within the bespoke media units subtly highlights the beautifully displayed objects, creating a sense of depth and warmth.
The most striking features are the pair of Amber Sorrento Chandeliers from Pure White Lines, suspended centrally within each zone. Positioned above the conversational seating and lounging areas, they anchor the spaces and create an intimate atmosphere for gathering. Beautifully proportioned to the room's generous size and ceiling height, these sculptural fixtures cast a warm, inviting glow that brings instant drama and a sense of occasion. They have quickly become a favourite talking point.
Equally important are the quieter layers of lighting working throughout the room. The Mosman Bronze Linear Wall Sconces and Mosman Table Lamps from Pure White Lines add understated elegance through their sleek geometric lines and soft alabaster finish. A carefully placed floor lamp, from Andrew Martin, provides focused task lighting exactly where it is needed.
All fixtures are fitted with warm-toned bulbs and controlled via high-quality bronze dimmer switches, giving my clients complete control over the ambience for any mood or occasion.
"The right lighting can completely change how a space feels. It is about highlighting the details, enhancing comfort, and making every corner of a home feel inviting." - Anita de Villiers.
With years of experience designing homes across Surrey and South East England, I have learned that lighting is always worth investing in and that professional planning makes a significant difference. Lighting defines how a space feels and functions, and quality fixtures can instantly elevate an interior.
The Amber Sorrento Chandeliers are a perfect example. Their scale, craftsmanship, and the way the amber glass catches and reflects light throughout the day contribute to the room’s refined and sophisticated atmosphere. Even the best budget alternatives simply cannot achieve the same effect.
The difference that good lighting makes in this space cannot be overstated. Where harsh overhead lights once left the room feeling flat, it now has a beautiful balance of light and shadow that brings depth, warmth, and a sense of sophistication.
Whether the family is enjoying a quiet evening reading, watching TV, or hosting guests with ambient and chandelier lighting, the room adapts effortlessly. With full control via dimmer switches, the atmosphere can be adjusted to suit every occasion.
In this Surrey living room, lighting became the element that tied everything together, transforming the space into one the family genuinely loves to use every day.
Lighting should be considered early in any renovation to ensure your space feels both beautiful and functional. If you’re planning a home transformation, I’d love to help you get the design and lighting just right. Get in touch to discuss your project.
About Anita de Villiers Interior Design
Anita de Villiers runs a boutique interior design studio in Surrey, specialising in elegant, considered interiors for homeowners who value quality and personal connection. Providing a dedicated one-to-one experience, Anita personally manages every stage of the design journey. Her work is defined by a respect for architectural integrity and quiet luxury, creating layered spaces that remain timeless as trends evolve. Whether overseeing a full renovation or a single room, Anita guides her clients with a structured process that brings clarity to every decision. She creates sophisticated, functional homes designed around how you live.
This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a timeless home design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Zophia Scarlett Interiors.
Following a significant life event, Zophia Scarlett Interiors was commissioned for a complete interior refresh to transform their client's house into a true reflection of who he is today. The brief called for a timeless design that balances warmth, functionality, and brings heart back in to this home. The design features natural materials, custom joinery, and a refined, masculine palette, with feminine touches to create an inviting space. Reconfigured layouts, layered lighting, and thoughtful details support both everyday living and family connection. The result is a deeply personal space; a home that represents a fresh chapter in their client’s life.
Category: Residential Budget Up To £50,000
Design Practice: Zophia Scarlett Interiors
Project Title: New Beginnings – Devonshire Park
Project Location: Reading, United Kingdom
Design Practice Location: Reading, United Kingdom
Our client came to us wanting a fresh start. Following a difficult time in his personal life, he had spent several years in a home that was a constant reminder of a previous life. He was ready to transform it into something reflective of who he is today; a warm, welcoming environment where he and his child could connect, grow, and create new memories together.
The brief centred on creating a home that felt both grounded and elevated. The client wanted a clean, modern-traditional aesthetic with subtle masculine undertones, softened with a female touch.
Key requirements included: - Reimagining the layout with considered spatial planning to improve the flow. - Introducing functional and decorative lighting, replacing the oversized, dated fittings. - Incorporating durable, natural materials such as timber, stone, and linen. - Designing ample built-in storage specifically to their needs to reduce visual clutter and create a renewed sense of order.
Ultimately, the vision was to deliver a space that felt calm, confident, and deeply personal; a true reflection of the next chapter in our client’s life.
As a bachelor, it was important to our client that the design had a masculine feel, but with a feminine influence throughout. Achieving this balance set the tone for the entire design direction: grounded yet elevated, confident yet welcoming.
For me, the starting point was the property itself. It had solid bones and strong potential, but the interiors felt flat and underwhelming with clutter and ill-fitting furniture. My aim was to deliver a timeless design at the core with clean, modern-traditional lines and then layer in texture, colour, and natural materials to add depth, personality, and emotion. Ultimately, it was about transforming a magnolia, lifeless house into a home with presence, and authenticity.
By far the biggest challenge was our client’s deep distrust of trades, built from past negative experiences. This meant his natural disposition was to question almost every element of the process, which could have slowed progress and created unnecessary tension. I saw it as my role to manage this carefully—positioning myself between the client and the trades, ensuring clear communication, and demonstrating the professionalism and skill of my team.
I strongly believe that great design only becomes reality through the craft and dedication of talented tradespeople. Execution is often where the magic truly happens. By maintaining trust, clarity, and collaboration throughout, we not only delivered the project on time but also changed the client’s perception—he was delighted with both the journey and the results - all whilst I was pregnant, completing when I was 39 weeks and due into hospital the following week.
Although my client was unable to move out during most of the process, I was able to persuade him to leave for three days so that my team and I could complete and style the project for a true grand reveal. That moment was the absolute highlight for us. His reaction said it all; he admitted that if he had known his home would turn out this way, he would have trusted the process from the very beginning. What touched us most was his shift in perspective: before, he referred to it as his house, but now he proudly calls it his home.
To further reinforce this, he even invited a renowned local estate agent to view the finished property. Not only did it exceed his personal expectations, but the valuation also confirmed a significant increase in the property’s worth. This was an outcome that made the transformation even more rewarding.
I entered the SBID Awards because they represent one of the most respected benchmarks of excellence in the design industry, and I wanted to showcase a project that I believe deserved recognition. This particular project was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my career, delivered under immense time pressure, while also overcoming my client’s deep distrust of the process. To see the transformation not only delight him but also significantly increase the value of his property was something I am deeply proud of.
On a personal level, I am naturally competitive, and I love pushing myself and my work to the highest standard. Entering the SBID Awards felt like the perfect way to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and collaboration that went into this project, while also challenging myself and my team against the very best in the industry.
Being an SBID International Design Awards Finalist is an incredible honour for me and my studio at this early stage. I am proud to be recognised alongside such talented designers, and this milestone inspires me to keep pushing for excellence for my clients and my creative possibilities.
Questions answered by Zophia Scarlett Cleghorn, Director of Zophia Scarlett Interiors.
We hope you feel inspired by this week's design!
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a sleek kitchen design, click here to read it.
This new-build property was given a renewed sense of character through the considered use of colour, wallpaper and furniture selected to suit both the scale of the rooms and the family’s lifestyle.
The brief was to move away from the neutral, generic feel often associated with new builds and create a home that felt warm, layered and personal.
Having lived in the house for some time, the clients felt the interiors weren’t working for them. Furniture carried over from their previous home felt ill-suited to the new layout, storage was limited and the spaces lacked cohesion and personality.
NB Interiors provided a full review of the ground floor, which allowed the layout and function of each room to be refined, ensuring the home worked harder for day-to-day family life.
Updated wall colours and wallpapers introduced depth and interest, while new, carefully proportioned furniture helped to anchor each space and create a more fluid, cohesive feel throughout the downstairs.
Practical design solutions were seamlessly integrated, from defined areas for coats and storage to a more inviting living space designed for relaxed entertaining. The result is a warm, colourful and thoughtfully considered family home that now feels both functional and distinctly their own.
About NB Interiors UK
I have a passion for colour and texture, I enjoy helping clients be brave and take the leap into injecting personality into their homes. Whilst keeping spaces cosy, welcoming and feeling like their home. I aim to create spaces that can be truly lived in, comfortable and that will stand the test of time.
Designing interiors for large country homes presents distinct challenges. Working across historic and listed properties in Surrey, Berkshire and Oxfordshire, our approach focuses on creating interiors that continue to adapt to changing family dynamics and contemporary demands, while remaining relevant long after fashions have shifted.
Many of the large country homes Barclay Interiors works on are Georgian, Victorian or Edwardian, each bringing its own spatial logic and constraints.
Berkshire Estate and Oxfordshire Living are two projects that demonstrate this approach. Both involved significant period property renovation, yet each resulted in a different design outcome. Berkshire Estate took a more robust, rustic direction, while Oxfordshire Living adopted a lighter and more eclectic character.
Working within listed and historic properties means design decisions are shaped early by planning and conservation requirements. A detailed assessment of original features, spatial relationships and structural constraints informs layouts, joinery and finishes from the outset.
Where existing structures impose physical constraints, design decisions often require more active intervention. At Berkshire Estate, a period property renovation, heavy beams, low ceilings, inglenook fireplaces and irregular proportions were treated as guiding elements. Furniture layouts, lighting positions and sightlines were adjusted to work with the existing structure, with visual balance achieved through centred furniture, layered lighting and carefully placed focal points where symmetry was not possible.
Larger interventions, including Crittall glazing and selective ceiling adjustments, were introduced to improve light and clarify views while remaining sensitive to the original building.
In contrast, Oxfordshire Living called for a lighter touch. Panelling added depth, while a palette of whites layered with blues, creams and marbled finishes brought subtle variation to the interiors.
Despite these additions, the design approach remained consistent. Opening up the kitchen, dining and living areas was carefully managed to maintain cohesion and balance within the home’s generous layout.
Bespoke joinery played a key role in resolving the properties’ complex geometry and practical requirements. Across both projects, custom elements were developed for kitchens, wardrobes, dressing areas and storage, allowing awkward beams, plant rooms, and services to be integrated discreetly within the interiors.
For Berkshire Estate, hand-forged lighting brackets were designed specifically for spaces without flat ceilings, enabling statement pendants to sit correctly within exposed structures. Curtain poles were individually fabricated to accommodate deep reveals and varying wall depths, while custom furniture pieces, including dressing tables, cabinetry and metal island detailing, were developed in direct response to the architecture.
At Oxfordshire Living, bespoke cabinetry was combined with carefully refurbished existing pieces, ensuring new joinery sat comfortably within the home’s established character. In the dining room, the original archway was reinterpreted through the introduction of a black-framed glass door, retaining the historic form while supporting a more contemporary use of the space.
At Berkshire Estate, lighting and colour were used strategically to offset low ceilings and heavy timber structures, improving usability without diminishing the home’s character.
New glazing and selective reconfiguration of openings strengthened visual connections to the surrounding gardens and courtyards, improving daylight and circulation while maintaining appropriate thermal control.
A similar approach was applied at Oxfordshire Living, through lighter-touch interventions. Existing features were selectively updated and complemented with contemporary elements, with fabrics and finishes chosen to be paired with traditional furniture. Internal layouts were refined to improve flow and clarity, reinforcing the sense of space across the interiors.
Across both projects, key architectural features were retained and expressed wherever possible. Original beams, brickwork, stone floors and structural features were preserved as part of the design, allowing material continuity and authenticity to remain central to the finished interiors.
Our approach to designing large country homes is rooted in respecting historic proportions while supporting each client’s vision for contemporary living.
Although both projects required a sensitive approach to historic fabric, their outcomes differed in aesthetic and character, reflecting the importance of considered decision-making at every stage of the design process.
Early design thinking can play a critical role in shaping both experience and outcome. If you’re thinking about starting a period property renovation, get in touch with us to explore the possibilities.
About Barclay Interiors Limited
Headquartered in the UK, Barclay Interiors has been a leading name in interior design for 25 years, with a global portfolio of residential and commercial projects. Known for a timeless and individual approach, the practice emphasises uncompromising discretion and transparency. The skilled team avoids a prescriptive style, creating beautiful, tailored spaces through close collaboration with architects, artisans, and contractors. Their proactive and responsive nature has made them a trusted partner for homeowners, investors, luxury hospitality operators, HNWIs, and developers.
This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a characterful cottage design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Isobel Star Interior Design.
Isobel Star Interior Design was commissioned to reimagine a historic holiday cottage in Helmsley, to balance character with modern comfort. The design sensitively embraced the cottage’s charm and thoughtfully updated it and maximised functionality. A mix of vintage finds, natural materials, and a warm, timeless palette creates a welcoming, layered, lived-in feel. The bold yellow front door ensures the cottage stands out in holiday listings, while evoking the charm of long English summer days.
Design Practice: Isobel Star Interior Design
Project Title: Helmsley Railway Crossing Cottage
Project Location: North Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Design Practice Location: York, United Kingdom
The clients wanted to create a holiday home that felt warm and personal while keeping the charm of the Victorian railway cottage. Their aim was to offer guests something more thoughtful and unique than a standard holiday let, comfortable, welcoming, and full of character. It also had to be practical and easy for the clients to maintain.
The cottage itself was the main source of inspiration. I worked with its original features, existing elements such as the bathroom sanitaryware, and the building’s quirks rather than against them choosing colours, textures, and details that embraced the cottage’s history and its countryside setting. I wanted the interior to have the storybook quality of an English country cottage.
Working within a tight budget was the biggest challenge. We had to make careful choices about where to invest and where to be resourceful. Combining bespoke joinery, window dressings, and quality finishes with vintage finds and high street pieces gave us the right balance.
Seeing the cottage come together as a space that feels both calm and inviting was a real highlight. The tradespeople and delivery teams loved being there as the project took shape, often commenting on how charming and welcoming the cottage felt. The clients are delighted with the finished result, and it has been hugely rewarding to see it so warmly received. Guests have shared wonderful feedback about the interiors, and the cottage is now fully booked well into 2026, with many already planning return visits.
The SBID Awards are highly respected in the industry, and it felt like the right platform to share a project that shows what can be achieved even on a tight budget and to celebrate the collaborative effort with my clients.
It has been a huge boost. As a young studio, it is encouraging to have this recognition so early on. It has helped raise the profile of my work and given me confidence to continue creating projects that are thoughtful and honour the setting and soul of a building.
Questions answered by Isobel Star, Interior Designer & Founder of Isobel Star Design Studio.
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a seamless and cohesive residential design, click here to read it.
Lucy Jones, Design Director at Studio Sempura worked closely with her clients, Farcroft Homes to design the Interior Architecture of four architecturally stunning semi-detached houses located only a stones throw away from Southbourne beach in Dorset.
This project, Ora Mare was not only an award winner for the United Kingdom Property Awards 2025-2026 but also an SBID Awards Finalist 2025 in the Show Flats and Developments Category.
Lucy worked on this project from the early planning stages to ensure the interior layouts offered the functional, impactful spaces that were suited to both modern family living and holiday retreats.
At Studio Sempura, Lucy pushes the boundaries for 'safe' Interior Architectural design by adding character and identity through the use of carefully selected colours and materials. Creating designs that are unique and impactful addresses one of the design challenges for developments which is to not only to stand out in the market, but appeal to the majority at the same time.
The kitchens and bathrooms are key selling points to any development so Lucy focuses on making sure these spaces are thoroughly thought through and designed to have a ‘wow’ factor. Applying clever, cost effective design solutions to create unique, impactful spaces. Lucy also designed stand out master bedrooms with bespoke joinery and en-suites. Whilst across the four houses, offering two colour schemes for the key rooms such as the kitchen and master bedroom allowed more choice for potential buyers.
The interior style of Ora Mare reflects the seaside location; with soft neutrals, blue accents, natural textures and bronze brassware for a timeless, contemporary aesthetic and an opulent, luxury look and feel.
Studio Sempura's company ethos is to be as environmentally conscious and sustainable as possible. Development projects are very budget driven, so this can be a challenge, but Lucy strives to achieve this in any way possible. Working closely with her clients, local business and suppliers to making sure the quality of every finish and product is as good as it can be to ensure longevity.
Some environmentally conscious design decisions for Ora Mare include the use of tiles made in the UK, as well as replacing tiles with wall panelling or even just paint where possible to still create a cleanable surface that’s a part of a more circular material. Other finishes such as the carpet were specified with at least 50% wool and the multi-drop pendant in the staircases is made from recycled glass. When styling and dressing the houses, Lucy uses a mixture of charity shop and second hand market finds, to smaller items coming from her own home. She avoids buying cheap furniture and props for single use. Everything is either stocked and used again or found another home.
About Studio Sempura
Studio Sempura is a leading environmentally conscious Interior Architecture and Design practice based on the Dorset Coast, owned and directed by Lucy Jones. Lucy trained as an Interior Architectural Designer and therefore offers knowledge and expertise of all elements of a project from planning and spacial plans to interior styling. Studio Sempura can offer a full turn-key service. Whether your project is residential or commercial, new build or renovation, we can help you create a space that has purpose, meaning, longevity and style. We also put a huge emphasis on sustainability and carefully consider everything we design and specify.
This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a seamless and cohesive residential design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Róisín Lafferty.
Róisín Lafferty was commissioned to reimagine two neighbouring semi-detached properties as one highly functional, long-term family home. The brief required a complete spatial rethink while retaining two entrances, staircases, and mechanical systems. The goal was to create a seamless, cohesive interior that could eventually be divided into two independent homes for the client’s children. The point where the properties meet became the design’s central focus.
Category: Residential House Over £1M
Design Practice: Róisín Lafferty
Project Title: 2:1 Residence
Project Location: Dublin, Ireland
Design Practice Location: Dublin, Ireland
The clients wanted to merge two neighbouring semi-detached houses into one forever family home - but with the ability to divide them again in the future for the next generation. The challenge was to create a seamless, unified interior while retaining two staircases, entrances, and independent systems. At the heart of the brief was flexibility: a home that could evolve over time without compromising function or flow. The brief also celebrated connection to the larger garden, ensuring key views and interactions with the landscape from multiple rooms, while eliminating wasted corridors so that every space had purpose.
The design centred on the point where the two houses meet. Instead of disguising the joint, we made it the conceptual heart of the home, incorporating a sculptural sunken lounge at the original boundary line. This recessed lounge – finished with an inset marble floor and mirrored ceiling to reflect the garden indoors – became the hub that unites both houses. From here, a terrace extends the geometry into the garden, further strengthening the indoor / outdoor connection.
Throughout the house, the concept was about balance and discovery: twin music rooms linked by cobalt shelving that wraps around a central chimney breast, concealed oversized pivot doors that read as seamless wall panels, and a monumental steel-clad sliding screen that can transform the spatial flow. The playfulness of the layout encourages exploration, with endless routes and subtle surprises, while still maintaining proportion and calm.
One of the biggest challenges was the technical complexity of merging two houses into one while keeping them fully independent behind the scenes. Every system, from underfloor heating to lighting, data wiring, and ventilation; had to be designed to work both together and separately. Structurally, new connections had to be created without introducing visual obstructions. Balancing that level of engineering with the desire for a seamless, calm aesthetic required meticulous planning, smart routing for services, and constant collaboration across trades. It meant rethinking how we normally approach design and construction, but it allowed the project to function beautifully now while remaining future proof for generations to come.
The highlight was seeing the two houses truly come together as one; not just structurally, but emotionally. Spaces like the twin music rooms, unified by cobalt shelving and a shared chimney breast, embody that balance between individuality and cohesion. And the sunken lounge at the centre, with its sculptural form and connection to the garden, felt like the moment the vision became reality. For the team, it was incredibly rewarding to watch the design evolve from concept into a home that feels both elegant and deeply liveable.
Because this project embodies what great design can do: solve highly technical challenges while creating a home that feels calm, generous, and deeply personal. It’s deceptively complex, and we wanted to celebrate that on an international stage.
It’s hugely affirming for our team and our clients. It shows that innovation, adaptability, and forward-thinking design resonate far beyond Ireland. For us, it reinforces the importance of pushing boundaries while always keeping the needs of the family at the centre.
Questions answered by Róisín Lafferty, Founder & Creative Director at Róisín Lafferty.
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a refined penthouse design, click here to read it.
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