When a brief calls for a property to be ‘gutted’ and re-designed from scratch, it’s rare for that to actually be the case. For this mews house in Belgravia, it really was in need of re-wiring and re-plumbing, with the space needing to be fully re-configured to allow for a downstairs cloakroom and new kitchen.
The two-bedroom house sits on one of London’s quietest mews, despite being in the middle of Belgravia and therefore very well-placed. The clients would be using the house on brief trips to London but the property was also to be let for several months at a time. The design brief for Celine Jumaili focused on a modernised version of traditional English style, in order to appeal to European tastes as well to renters further afield.
The entrance level sitting room is the beating heart of the house, with plenty of seating and a small dining banquette. One of the main selling points of this house is the original fireplace that was retained and re-finished as a bioethanol fire installed in a vintage fire basket.
The room is made up of soft neutrals and warming green accents. The fabrics are a real mix of textures so that the room can wear its many hats; Guy Goodfellow weave on the chairs and Colefax & Fowler velvet on the sofa. The dining banquette is like a mini room of its own and is perfectly in keeping with the multi-functionality of the house. The banquette itself is upholstered in a fabulous flamestitch design by Colefax & Fowler whilst the chairs are a bright Fermoie fabric.
Lighting in a house that will be used by a mix of people is essential to get right, so the lighting in the sitting room is a mix of Hector Finch, Besselink & Jones and Richard Taylor covering the functional, the modern and the decorative.
A large lockable storage unit allows for the client’s possessions to be stored away whilst also adding some colour to the room, perfectly tied in with the green sofa, cushions and decorative accessories.
Despite this sitting room needing to appeal to all sorts of guests; there are two lovely touches from the designer. One is the antique chiffonier from an independent dealer in Norfolk which could not have been a more perfect fit for the space. The other is the artwork, which was painstakingly sourced from a couple of London galleries and specialist dealers. Even a rented house needs to feel like a home. The clients are big racing fans and so the art and downstairs cloakroom wallpaper is a nod to this part of their lives without being too obvious.
The install logistics of this project had to be considered from the very beginning and incorporated into everything. The stairs are narrow (as is the case in many a mews house) so fitted furniture had to either be made on site and anything else needed to come through the windows. Custom split-bed bases solved any mattress problems but every piece of the puzzle had to be meticulously scheduled for the project to be completed on time and on budget.
The property is located off one of London’s prettiest streets with no end to the restaurant offerings but the house still needed to incorporate a fully fitted kitchen. It’s compact and suitable for city living rather than for six-course dinners but has a built-in dishwasher and all the mod-cons the clients or a tenant could require. Every single inch had to be carefully thought through and the result is a sleek design with space for preparation amongst modern amenities.
The whole house over, jib doors are a brilliant space saver allowing doors to blend seamlessly into walls which gives the house a feel of seamless living.
Upstairs, the Master Bedroom is finished in soft pale blues and luxurious fabrics from Penny Morrison, Lewis & Wood and Colefax & Fowler. One wall was turned into floor-to-ceiling custom joinery with inset grass cloth panels…again making storage work within the room and adding touches of modern design that still works with the traditional English aesthetic. The Georgian chest of drawers and pictures were all sourced at auction.
Every second home, city apartment or rented house needs an excellent bathroom. The house has a very contemporary walk-in shower made of Crema Marfil stone, a Spanish marble known for its soft colour. There is a double basin unit with ample storage as well as mirrored cabinets and fluted wall lights either side of the sink. Every single centimetre had to be accounted for in this bathroom and the aim was to create something that felt luxurious, almost hotel-like as well as being homely.
The second bedroom has zip and link beds so it can happily work as two singles for children (including the client’s grandchildren) or as a double with a single bedside table when required.
It would be very easy for this bedroom to look cramped or cold but this was avoided with a clever use of colour and space. The headboards and decorative pillows are Seaweed Lattice by Soane with a green grasspaper by Stereo Interiors mixed with a textured paper from Colefax & Fowler on the remaining wall. The bed valance and braiding is by Claremont alongside Samuel & Sons. The rug is Penny Morrison and the bedside drawer (which has an amazing amount of storage for something so small) is by Chelsea textiles. The whole room is a cosy and colourful space, however it is arranged.
It's not always easy to have such a prescriptive space but every single square inch of this house has been considered. The result is a perfectly compact do-it-all house that is modern and well-organised whilst also being homely and comfortable. Whether for the clients or for temporary renters, it’s a lovely little escape in the heart of busy London.
About Celine Jumaili
Renowned for timeless, client focused spaces Celine Jumaili balances refinement with comfort and functionality. With over 20 years of experience across leading international studios, the firm brings extensive expertise in historic restoration and modern eclectic design. The studio combines architectural sensitivity with intuitive space planning, curating materials, art, and antiques to create interiors that feel natural and enduring. Committed to delivering a joyful design journey from concept to completion, the practice is recognized for rigorous project management and a philosophy of timelessness over trend.
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This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a characterful hallway design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalists, Amy Hunt Interior Design.
Amy Hunt Interiors designed this Edwardian hallway and cloakroom to restore character, warmth, and personality to two previously overlooked spaces. Wide-plank oak flooring, bespoke panelling, and layered lighting reintroduced architectural depth, while a wallpapered ceiling and bold stair runner added drama and visual interest. The adjoining WC was transformed with rich magenta panelling, a marbled wallpaper ceiling, and vintage-inspired details, including brass taps, a wall-mounted basin, and checkerboard tiles. These thoughtful, playful elements celebrate the home’s heritage while creating a cohesive narrative. The result is a striking, characterful transformation that turns transitional areas into standout design moments.
Category: Residential Budget Up To £50,000
Design Practice: Amy Hunt Interior Design
Project Title: Edwardian Hallway & WC Refurb
Project Location: Reigate, United Kingdom
Design Practice Location: Surrey, United Kingdom
The clients wanted the design to be sensitive to the era of the home and to bring its history back to life. Sadly, over the years, many of the original features had been stripped away or removed. One unique aspect of this project is that my client is colour blind, so it was important to choose colours that stood out clearly rather than blended subtly into the space. The result is a design that’s both visually impactful and respectful of the home’s past.
The stained-glass windows on the front door have beautiful colours and a delicate floral theme that were lost in the space. We used this as inspiration to carry those tones and motifs into the rest of the space. When I came across the House of Hackney wallpaper, it felt like fate!
The WC was cold and dark, and we knew we wanted to bring in depth and warmth to the space, having already decided on a wallpaper for the hallway it felt right to opt for something even more bold for this small space!
Deciding on the lower half paint colour, we ended up pairing back to allow the ceiling to have its moment.
Stepping back to admire the completed space, the difference is incredible. After eight years of living without colour, the transformation feels uplifting and full of life. Opening the front door is so joyful.
As a small company, we work incredibly hard, and at times it can feel like a lonely journey, as you sit in your office squirrelling away on your designs for days if not weeks. Submitting a project for an award offers us valuable feedback and recognition from others that we might not otherwise receive.
Seeing your clients’ reaction to the finished scheme is incredibly rewarding. Taking that project to the wider market and receiving recognition for your design is really special. It not only validates what you are doing but also inspires you to keep pushing yourself.
Questions answered by Amy Hunt, Founder of Amy Hunt Interior Design.
We hope you feel inspired by this week's design!
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a glamorous hotel design, click here to read it.
Jan Metcalfe-Barnett, Founder & Interior Designer at Fusion Interior Design, has given her insights into the industry.
Jan’s path into interior design was shaped by a passion for creativity and well-crafted spaces rather than a conventional route. After early roles in childcare and banking, a move to Ireland saw her working in a furniture and antiques showroom, where she developed a strong appreciation for craftsmanship and curated interiors.
Returning to London in the early 1990s, Jan gained hands-on experience within a leading interior design practice while completing formal training, building a solid foundation in high-end residential design.
She went on to join Roomservice Furnishing as a design manager, creating showhomes for major UK housebuilders and refining her ability to design aspirational yet practical interiors.
In 1999, Jan founded Fusion Interior Design. With over 25 years’ experience, she has since transformed hundreds of homes, creating spaces that are thoughtful, functional, and tailored to how her clients live.
For me, it was never just about how a space looks — it was about how it feels to live in. Early on, I realised that thoughtful design has the power to completely change how someone experiences their home day to day. I was drawn to the idea that good design isn’t just aesthetic, it’s practical, emotional, and deeply personal. That’s what has kept me in the profession for over 25 years.
Without question, it’s the problem-solving. Most clients come to us not because they want something “pretty,” but because something in their home isn’t working. I enjoy unpicking that — understanding how they live, where the frustrations are, and then creating a layout and design that resolves it. Seeing that moment where a client says, “That’s exactly what we needed” — that’s the most rewarding part.
Being selected as a finalist in the Epsom & Ewell Business Awards was a real highlight. We’ve always positioned ourselves as a grounded, client-focused studio rather than chasing recognition, so to be acknowledged in that way felt meaningful.
We particularly enjoy working on renovations and extensions at the planning stage — before anything is built. That’s where we can add the most value. Often, architectural drawings don’t fully consider how a space will function day-to-day, so we step in to refine layouts, improve flow, and help clients properly visualise their space through 2D plans and 3D visuals.
That early stage is where costly mistakes can be avoided, and where the biggest transformation really begins.
One of the biggest challenges is helping clients navigate the sheer number of decisions involved in a project. It can feel overwhelming for them, particularly during renovations. Our role often becomes as much about providing clarity and confidence as it is about design.
Managing expectations around time, budget, and the realities of building work is also key — good communication is everything.
How much of the role is about people, not just design. You’re guiding clients through significant investments in their homes, often during stressful periods. Emotional intelligence, communication, and the ability to simplify complex decisions are just as important as creativity.
Learn how to design for real life, not just for visuals. A beautiful space that doesn’t function properly will never truly succeed. Focus on space planning, flow, and how people actually live — that’s where good design starts.
I think we’ll continue to see a shift away from purely aesthetic-led design towards more practical, lifestyle-driven interiors. Clients are becoming more informed and want spaces that genuinely work for them — not just something that looks good in a photograph.
There’s also a growing appreciation for planning properly before building, particularly with rising costs. That early design stage is becoming more valued, which is something we strongly advocate.
Alongside this, sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration. Clients are more conscious of being planet-friendly — looking to reuse what they already have where possible, recycle responsibly, and invest in environmentally considered products rather than replacing everything unnecessarily. It’s less about fast design and more about thoughtful, long-term decisions that are better for both the home and the environment.
Accreditation with the Society of British and International Interior Design represents credibility and professionalism within an industry that isn’t always regulated. It reassures clients that they are working with a qualified, experienced designer who works to recognised standards.
For us, it aligns with how we’ve always approached our work — considered, professional, and focused on delivering real value to our clients.
About Fusion Interior Design
Fusion Interior Design is a Surrey-based studio specialising in thoughtfully planned homes that balance practicality with refined design. With over 25 years’ experience, we support homeowners through every stage of the design process — from single-room schemes and layout planning to full-scale renovations. Our expertise lies in intelligent space planning, resolving layout challenges before work begins. Through clear 2D plans and realistic 3D visuals, we give clients the confidence to move forward without uncertainty. Whether you need focused guidance for one space or a complete design service, we create interiors that feel cohesive, functional and enduring — designed for real life, not just appearance.
It’s entirely possible to design a beautiful home by focusing on the interiors first and thinking about the garden later. In many cases, that’s exactly how projects evolve. At Decorbuddi, more than 90% of our work is rooted in interior design, and it’s where most clients naturally begin: rethinking layouts, improving flow, and creating spaces that better reflect how they live.
However, what we’ve observed over time is that when the garden is at least considered early on, even at a very light-touch level, the overall result often feels more cohesive and better resolved. This isn’t about doing everything at once, or shifting focus away from the interiors, but about allowing the outside space to quietly inform key decisions inside.
Often, it starts with spatial flow. As we reconfigure interiors, we’re not just thinking about how rooms connect to one another, but how the home connects to the garden. The positioning of doors, the alignment of thresholds, and the natural routes in and out of the house all play a role. When these elements are considered together, movement flows and the transition between inside and out a seamless aspect of the design enhancing each element.
This naturally extends into how a home is used. Kitchens, dining areas and family spaces often have a direct relationship with the garden, particularly in homes designed for entertaining or family life. By understanding how the outdoor space might function - whether that’s dining, relaxing, or simply providing a visual backdrop- we can make more informed decisions about interior layouts. Even without a fully developed garden scheme, this awareness helps ensure the home works as a whole.
There is also a quieter, but equally important, impact on light and outlook. A garden is not just something you step into; it’s something you see and experience from within. Thinking about planting, levels or focal points early on allows us to position glazing and interior features more deliberately, maximising natural light and shaping views that enhance the atmosphere of a space. In this way, the garden becomes part of the interior experience, even when you’re indoors.
From a design perspective, early consideration opens up opportunities for a more unified aesthetic. Materials, tones and textures can be subtly echoed - flooring that extends towards a terrace, finishes that relate to external elements, or a palette that flows naturally between the two. It’s not about matching everything exactly, but about creating a sense of continuity that makes the home feel calm and considered.
Alongside these design benefits, there are practical advantages that are easy to overlook. In many properties we work on in London, access is constrained, and garden materials often need to pass through the house. If structural landscaping - such as levelling a patio or forming terraces - is left until after the interiors are complete, it can introduce unnecessary risk and disruption. Addressing these elements earlier in the process can help protect finished spaces and simplify the build.
Similarly, coordinating internal floor levels with external ground levels is far easier when both are part of the same conversation. When left too late, this can result in awkward steps, compromised thresholds or drainage challenges. When considered early, it allows for those seamless transitions that clients increasingly value, where indoor and outdoor spaces feel naturally connected.
Another layer to this is the integration of services. Lighting, drainage, and even power for outdoor features can be aligned with the interior scheme from the outset, rather than retrofitted later. This not only leads to a more refined end result but can also avoid unnecessary cost and disruption as the project progresses.
Of course, not every client wants to complete their garden at the same time as their interiors, and that’s completely understandable. What we often suggest at Decorbuddi is simply developing an awareness of the garden early on - sometimes as a high-level plan that can be implemented in phases. This approach helps to future-proof the project, ensuring that when the garden is eventually realised, it feels like a natural extension of the home rather than something separate.
Our role, first and foremost, is to create interior spaces that look beautiful, functional well and are deeply personal to the people who live in them. When the relationship between inside and out is considered - even in a subtle way - the impact on the interior can be significant. Interiors feel fresher and more spacious, views are more impactful, and the home as a whole becomes more connected.
At Decorbuddi, we don’t see this as a rule, but as an opportunity. An opportunity to enhance the interior by considering the wider context in which those interiors sit. And when that happens, the results tend to speak for themselves.
About Decorbuddi
Decorbuddi creates thoughtful, original design that transforms the quality of everyday life. Blending expertise with a warm, flexible approach, we tailor each project to our clients’ individual needs - from focused design consultations to complete interior and garden renovations. With a London based central studio, regionally based designer team and a trusted network of skilled trades, we deliver carefully managed turnkey projects across the UK and internationally, ensuring every element works together seamlessly.
Maria Benaki, Founder & Interior Designer at Studio Benaki, has given her insights into the industry.
Born and raised in Greece, I moved to the UK to further my studies before building a career in civil engineering. My professional journey began in the energy industry, where I spent over a decade working as a civil engineer on offshore development projects — a career that sharpened my analytical thinking, technical rigour and project management skills.
Driven by a lifelong passion for design, architecture and the arts, I went on to retrain at the prestigious KLC School of Design, a turning point that united my creative sensibility with my engineering background in a way that felt entirely natural.
Shortly after completing my diploma, I founded Studio Benaki — a London based interior design studio with a vision to create deeply personal, expressive and highly functional spaces for residential and commercial clients across London and in Greece.
The decision to change careers and work in the interior design industry grew naturally within me. Very early in my civil engineering career, I felt a strong urge to combine my creativity with my technical background, analytical thinking and site expertise. I have also always admired people who felt fulfilled through their work, and that simple observation sparked my own career change journey. Having lived away from my home country for many years, I also came to understand just how important it is for spaces to truly feel like home — and how powerful good design can be in creating that sense of belonging, wherever you are in the world.
What eventually drew me to make the transition was the understanding that residential interior design has the power to genuinely change how people feel in their everyday lives — bringing a little of their heart, their history and their personality into spaces that are both functional and timeless. That conviction led me to retrain at London's KLC School of Design and ultimately found Studio Benaki in 2025.
There are many aspects of interior design that I find rewarding. But if I had to choose, it would be the spatial planning phase. The stage where functionality is at its most critical and where my civil engineering instincts truly come alive. I find myself imagining people moving through the spaces, living in them, using them at different times of day. How does a family flow through a kitchen in the morning? How does a room need to work differently in the evening? Getting that spatial logic right is the foundation on which every timeless, functional interior is built, and it is one of the things my engineering background equips me particularly well for. There is something deeply satisfying about solving a complex spatial challenge beautifully and seeing it transform how a client lives in their home every day.
Without question, it has been founding Studio Benaki and delivering my first projects under the studio name. Building a London interior design practice from the ground up — developing the philosophy, the process and the identity — has been both challenging and deeply fulfilling. Seeing the studio take shape, working with wonderful clients and receiving such a warm response from the design community has been incredibly encouraging.
This first year has reinforced my belief that great interior design always comes back to the same principles: listening carefully, designing with purpose and delivering spaces that genuinely improve how people feel every day. It has been the most rewarding chapter of my career so far — and very much just the beginning.
I am drawn to challenging briefs. Homes that are dated, spatially inefficient or underperforming, where careful spatial planning can genuinely transform how a space flows and functions. There is something deeply satisfying about taking a residential interior that is not working and reimagining it entirely, creating something timeless and functional from what was once frustrating or overlooked.
It is also wonderful when clients ask me to incorporate sentimental pieces, heirlooms and art into their interiors. You know instantly that the spaces will be deeply personal and expressive — rooted in real lives and real stories. That connection between design and personal narrative is at the heart of the Studio Benaki approach, and it is what elevates a beautiful interior into a truly meaningful home.
I also have a deep love for historical buildings. There is something unique about discovering the history of an old building, understanding the lives that once occupied the space and reimagining it for the present and the years to come. That dialogue between past and present — honouring what came before while creating something that feels entirely alive today — is one of the most rewarding aspects of residential interior design.
One of the most consistent challenges is balancing creative ambition with real-world constraints — budget, timeline, structural limitations and the practical realities of a live building. Clients often arrive with inspiring references and a clear vision, and part of my role at Studio Benaki is to honour that vision while navigating what is genuinely achievable. That combination of creative problem-solving and technical precision is where my engineering background proves invaluable.
Managing expectations with honesty and clarity is something I take very seriously. A good interior designer does not simply say yes to everything — they find the best possible solution within the constraints and communicate that process transparently, ensuring the result is always timeless, functional and deeply personal to the client. Building that trust, from the very first consultation through to the final touches of a completed home, is the foundation on which every successful interior design project is built.
The first thing that comes to mind is that building a successful interior design practice takes time, patience and trust — and that is something worth embracing rather than rushing. A studio built on genuine relationships, careful work and clients who love their homes will always outlast one built on volume and speed. That is the foundation Studio Benaki is built on.
I also wish I had understood earlier how much of interior design is about project management, communication and relationships — not just creative vision. The ability to coordinate trades, manage timelines, handle procurement and keep a client calm and confident throughout a complex process is equally critical to delivering timeless, functional interiors. My civil engineering background helped me enormously here, but I think many designers entering the profession underestimate the operational side of the work. Great interior design is as much about the process as it is about the result.
Learn to listen before you design. The most beautifully executed residential interior will fall flat if it does not truly reflect the person living in it. Before reaching for the moodboard, invest real time in understanding your client — how they move through their home, what they find stressful, what brings them joy, and what home means to them emotionally.
Design rooted in that depth of understanding will always feel more personal, more considered and more lasting than design led by trends or aesthetics alone. That human connection is what transforms a beautiful space into a truly meaningful one — and it is the quality I would encourage every aspiring interior designer to cultivate from the very beginning.
Clients are becoming increasingly discerning — not just about aesthetics, but about the full experience of working with an interior designer. They want clarity, transparency and a process that feels calm and collaborative. Studios that invest in genuine relationships, structured processes and honest communication will be the ones that thrive.
Technology and artificial intelligence are also reshaping how designers work, and I think it is important to embrace the tools that genuinely enhance the design process — from spatial planning software to visualisation tools that help clients see their future home more clearly. That said, I firmly believe the most meaningful aspect of residential interior design will always remain deeply human. No algorithm can replicate the understanding that comes from sitting with a client, learning their story and translating that into a bespoke interior that feels truly personal.
It means a great deal, particularly at this stage of building Studio Benaki as a London interior design studio. SBID accreditation represents a commitment to professional standards, ethical practice and continuous development — values that are absolutely central to how I work across every residential and commercial interior design project.
For clients making a significant investment in their home, it offers genuine reassurance that they are working with a qualified interior designer who is accountable, professional and part of a respected industry community. For me personally, it is also a mark of belonging to a profession I care deeply about. Interior design has the power to profoundly change how people feel in their everyday lives and being part of an organisation that champions and upholds those standards is something I am genuinely proud of.
About Studio Benaki
Studio Benaki is a London-based interior design studio specialising in residential projects in London and Greece. With a focus on contemporary design, the studio crafts deeply personal, expressive and highly functional homes. From full renovations to thoughtful one-room transformations, each project is approached with warmth, care and a deep respect for both the architecture and the people who inhabit it. What makes Studio Benaki distinct is the way it bridges heritage, craftsmanship and clarity of execution. Drawing on Maria’s background in civil engineering and a rich cultural perspective shaped by life in both Greece and the UK, founder Maria Benaki brings a rare combination of creative intuition and practical expertise into her projects.
A very tired and drab kitchen was given a huge makeover, by NB Interiors, which totally transformed how this family used the space.
A once very tired and dull space is now a very warm and welcoming kitchen that has both aesthetic and functionality at it's heart.
By adding a small extension to create a compact utility room meant the layout of the kitchen could be adapted to make space for a dining area, complete with banquette seating with some all important storage.
The addition of the seating area meant this room went from feeling cramped to spacious and a social hub of the home.
The pink colour on the walls actually made the space feel much bigger and brighter, plus opening up the chimney allowed the cooker to be relocated to this space and made the seating area possible. This has been a huge transformation and once that has totally transformed the family home.
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.
This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a minimalist residential design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Susan Chesney Interiors.
This project involved the full interior design of a newly rebuilt 1967 ski chalet in Switzerland, grounded in a bold Brutalist foundation of concrete, blackened steel, and glass. The brief was to honour the clients’ love of raw, architectural structure while softening the interior to reflect both husband and wife’s tastes. Despite being a long-distance project, only two site visits were made over 22 months, minimising our carbon impact. The result is a striking yet liveable Alpine retreat—balancing strength with soul, and minimalism with warmth through considered materials and layered texture.
Category: Residential House Over £1M
Design Practice: Susan Chesney Interiors
Project Title: Laax Mountain Chalet
Project Location: Laax, Switzerland
Design Practice Location: London, United Kingdom
The client's goal was to create a warm, enduring alpine retreat for family gatherings year-round, blending the chalet’s striking brutalist architecture with comfort, practicality, and understated luxury.
Susan Chesney Interiors collaborated closely with the client and a Swiss–Italian architectural team to ensure the interiors and architecture evolved in harmony. A key creative challenge was bridging the gap between one stakeholder’s love of minimalism and the other’s desire for cosiness — resulting in a layered design that is visually calm yet deeply inviting.
The project vision was to create a year-round alpine home where minimalist architecture meets enveloping comfort — a space that satisfies two distinct aesthetic sensibilities while delivering connection, craftsmanship, and a sense of belonging.
The client's lifestyle inspired the design, as they were sporty, grounded, social and nature-loving. The architectural integrity celebrates the chalet’s brutalist form with natural, tactile finishes. The chosen palette includes natural oak, exposed concrete, inky blues, mossy greens, aged brass, natural stone, and warm plaster tones. The architectural details include black steel staircases that punctuate the interior, bringing a graphic contrast to the warm, layered materials. The design is influenced by mid-century alpine modernism and European craftsmanship. Minimalist clarity is softened with textural warmth — cocooning for the ski season, airy for summer.
The remote aspect of the job and the logistics of deliveries up narrow mountain roads.
The final outcome! The client was absolutely delighted when it all came together.
We entered the SBID Awards to showcase the collaborative spirit and design integrity of Project Laax — a brutalist 1967 Swiss chalet reimagined as a year-round family retreat. Working closely with the client and a Swiss–Italian architectural team, we bridged one stakeholder’s love of stark minimalism with the other’s desire for colour and cosiness. Proud of our achievement, we wanted to share it with the SBID community as a mark of craftsmanship, context, and enduring style.
Being an SBID Award Finalist is both an honour and a proud milestone for our studio. It recognises the creativity, technical rigour, and collaboration behind Project Laax — uniting stark minimalism with colour and cosiness while honouring its brutalist heritage. The recognition has strengthened our credibility, opened new collaborations, and created valuable press opportunities, while giving us a moment to celebrate the craft and detail behind this alpine family retreat.
Questions answered by Susan Chesney, Creative Director of Susan Chesney Interiors.
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring an expressive office design, click here to read it.
Rachana Gupta, Founder & Principal Designer at Oraanj Interior Design, has given her insights into the industry.
I am the Founder and Principal Designer of Oraanj Interior Design, a London-based studio specialising in luxury residential, commercial, and turnkey interior design in London.
Our work focuses on creating practical, buildable interiors through space planning, interior architecture, bespoke joinery, and full procurement. We approach every project with a strong technical foundation—ensuring that what we design can be executed seamlessly on site.
Over the years, we have worked on a wide range of projects across London, from full home renovations to commercial spaces, always focusing on delivering well-planned, functional, and refined interiors that work in real life, not just visually.
I was always interested in how spaces affect the way we live, but what really drew me into interior design was seeing how often homes looked beautiful but didn’t function well. Early in my career, I worked on a London apartment where the finishes were high-end, but the layout was inefficient—there was poor circulation, limited storage, and the space didn’t feel comfortable to live in.
That experience made me realise that design is not just about aesthetics. It’s about solving problems through interior architecture and space planning in London. I wanted to focus on creating spaces that are not only visually refined but also practical and well thought through.
Today, that philosophy defines our work at Oraanj Interior Design. We prioritise layout, usability, and buildability from the start, ensuring every design decision improves how the space is used on a daily basis.
The part I enjoy the most is solving spatial problems and improving how a space works. Every project comes with its own challenges, and finding the right layout solution is always rewarding.
For example, we worked on a family home where the living and dining areas felt cramped despite having a generous floor area. Instead of adding more elements, we reconfigured the layout, adjusted door positions, and introduced bespoke joinery to create integrated storage. This instantly improved circulation and made the space feel much larger.
I also enjoy the detailing stage—working on lighting, materials, and finishes. Seeing everything come together through a turnkey interior design process is very satisfying because every detail has been carefully considered. It’s that transition from concept to a fully functioning space that makes the process enjoyable.
One of the most memorable highlights this year was delivering a full turnkey interior design project in London where we managed everything from concept to completion.
The project had several constraints, including structural limitations and a tight timeline. There were also coordination challenges between different contractors and suppliers. To manage this, we developed detailed technical drawings, planned procurement in phases, and maintained close communication with the site team.
Despite these challenges, the project was completed smoothly, and the client moved into a fully finished home without delays or stress. For me, the most rewarding part was seeing how a structured process can simplify what is usually a complex experience.
Moments like these reinforce the importance of combining design with execution. It’s not just about creating a beautiful space, but about delivering it efficiently and professionally.
I particularly enjoy projects where we are involved from the early stages, especially full renovations or layout reconfigurations. These projects allow us to apply space planning and interior architecture in London in a meaningful way.
In one project, the client wanted more storage and better functionality, but did not want to extend the property. By reworking internal layouts, integrating custom storage, and designing multi-functional furniture, we were able to completely transform how the home worked without increasing the footprint.
I also enjoy high-end residential projects because they require a balance between aesthetics and everyday usability. However, commercial projects are equally interesting as they involve a different scale and focus on user experience and brand identity.
The variety keeps the work dynamic, but ultimately, I enjoy projects where design can genuinely improve how people live or use a space.
One of the biggest challenges is managing expectations while working within real-world constraints. Clients often come with inspiration images, but every property has limitations—whether structural, regulatory, or budget-related.
For example, we worked on a project where the client wanted a floating staircase feature that wasn’t feasible due to structural restrictions. Instead of simply rejecting the idea, we developed an alternative design that achieved a similar visual effect while remaining safe and compliant.
In London, these challenges are quite common due to building regulations and property constraints. That’s why we focus heavily on technical drawings, planning, and coordination. Clear communication is also key—helping clients understand what is possible and how best to achieve their goals.
Balancing creativity with practicality is what makes the role challenging, but also very rewarding.
I wish I had understood earlier how important the technical and execution side of design is. Many people assume interior design is mainly about selecting finishes and furniture, but in reality, it involves much more.
Understanding construction, services, and how different elements come together on site is critical. For example, even small details like lighting placement or joinery dimensions can significantly impact the final outcome.
Over time, I realised that creating buildable designs and detailed technical drawings is what ensures a project runs smoothly. Without that clarity, even the best ideas can fail during execution.
This understanding has shaped our approach at Oraanj Interior Design, where we prioritise planning, coordination, and precision from the start of every project.
Focus on learning how things are built, not just how they look.
A strong understanding of space planning, technical drawings, and construction processes will set you apart in the industry. While creativity is important, the ability to translate ideas into real, buildable solutions is what defines a successful designer.
If you can design a space and clearly explain how it will be executed, you will add far more value to your clients and collaborators.
Interior design today requires both creativity and technical knowledge, and developing both skills early on will help you build a strong foundation for your career.
The industry is moving towards more comprehensive, full-service solutions. Clients are increasingly looking for designers who can manage everything—from concept to completion—rather than just providing design ideas.
There is a clear shift towards turnkey interior design in London, where the focus is on delivering a seamless experience. Clients value efficiency, clarity, and accountability, especially for complex projects.
There is also a growing emphasis on practical design—spaces that are functional, adaptable, and long-lasting. People are more conscious about how their spaces perform over time, not just how they look initially.
Overall, the industry is becoming more integrated, with design, execution, and project management working closely together.
Being SBID accredited represents professionalism, credibility, and trust. It provides reassurance to clients that they are working with a qualified interior designer in London who follows recognised industry standards.
For us, it also reflects our commitment to delivering structured, high-quality projects. We place strong emphasis on process, detail, and execution, and this accreditation supports that approach.
It’s an important recognition that not only strengthens our brand but also builds confidence for clients who are investing in their homes or businesses.
About Oraanj Interior Design
Luxury Interior Design in London for Residential and Commercial Projects delivered through a structured, technical, and design-led approach. As an award-winning Interior Design Company, Oraanj Interior Design creates refined, high-performance interiors for homes, offices and hospitality spaces across London and international locations. Our approach combines creative vision with technical expertise, ensuring every project is both visually compelling and practically deliverable. From concept to completion, we focus on space planning, interior architecture, lighting design, and bespoke detailing to achieve clarity, balance, and long-term usability. With expertise in technical drawings, procurement and turnkey high end interior design projects, we deliver fully coordinated, build-ready solutions, ensuring seamless execution and a refined, high-end result.
Anita de Villiers, Principal Interior Designer at Anita de Villiers Interior Design, has given her insights into the industry.
My route into interior design was not a straight one and I think that has shaped how I work. I began my career in South Africa with a BSc degree in Mathematics and Computer Science, followed by several years in the Information Technology sector. That background gave me a strong foundation in conceptualisation, project management and working closely with clients, skills I rely on every day as a designer.
My interest in interiors started as a serious hobby: I designed, built and furnished a few luxury homes and found that I enjoyed the technical and creative demands of the process. I made the shift to full-time interior design when I relocated to Cyprus in 2012, where I formalised my qualification and ran a successful studio for six years. Every project came through referral and covered high-end residential properties alongside some commercial commissions.
In August 2018, I settled in Surrey with my family and have since worked across a wide range of residential projects in the area: from full home renovations in the Surrey Hills to grand master bathrooms on Wentworth Estate. I now run a boutique interior design practice based in Reigate, specialising in creating refined yet practical home interiors across Surrey and the South East of England. My approach is deeply personal and collaborative: I manage every stage of the design journey myself, from the initial site survey through to the final specification.
Growing up in South Africa, many homes were designed around large, open-plan spaces, natural light and raw, organic textures that flowed out into generous gardens. Beautiful spaces were simply part of the culture and outdoor living was part of everyday life. I was always drawn to art and collecting interesting pieces and putting a room together came naturally to me long before I understood the principles behind why it worked.
Travelling to more exotic destinations and staying in boutique hotels has always been a source of inspiration and still is.
It was building speculative homes in South Africa that made me decide to shift my career to interior design. I realised I could combine the technical and organisational skills I had developed in my IT career with a creative discipline that felt genuinely rewarding.
Each project becomes very personal as I work through the design process. My approach is highly visual: I build up a fully realised design on paper before anything is touched on site. Seeing a client's reaction when they can clearly visualise their home is a real highlight for me.
I also enjoy the technical side, particularly designing bathrooms and bespoke joinery. These are demanding spaces where every millimetre counts and I find real satisfaction in solving the spatial challenges first: finding a layout that flows, then layering in the materials, lighting and finishes to make the room work beautifully on every level.
Working directly with each client from start to finish means I know the brief inside out and I can make decisions on their behalf with confidence. That level of personal involvement is something I value enormously and I think it shows in the result.
The Reigate Elegant Living Room project is a genuine highlight from the past year. What made it particularly satisfying was seeing how much could be achieved through considered design and a well-managed budget. The room was completely transformed from an underused, disconnected space into a luxurious and elegant living room that the family now uses and loves.
The transformation was achieved through carefully chosen elements: bespoke furniture pieces designed specifically for the proportions of the room, a layered lighting plan with dramatic statement pieces and a palette of luxurious materials and finishes. Together, these gave the space a real sense of depth and warmth. Every decision was deliberate and the result was a room that felt both impressive and genuinely liveable.
The project was subsequently featured on Pure White Lines and on SBID, where it was highlighted as an example of creating luxury living through lighting design. The client described the process as a pleasure from start to finish. That combination of a satisfied client and industry recognition made it a genuinely memorable project.
Bespoke bathroom design is where I feel most in my element. Over my career I have designed hundreds of bathrooms and the technical demands of the discipline remain as engaging as ever. Every millimetre is considered and accounted for: the layout, the plumbing positions, the lighting layers, the material choices, the joinery. To me, a well-designed bathroom feels like a jewellery box: compact, considered and beautiful in every detail. Technical precision and good design go hand in hand in these spaces.
Open-plan living areas are another favourite challenge. Kitchen, dining and lounge spaces that flow into one another need to work hard: each zone has its own function and feel, yet everything must connect cohesively. Getting those busy family spaces to feel right, both practically and visually, is something I find enormously satisfying.
New builds offer a different kind of reward. Working alongside architects and builders from the beginning means I can influence decisions around flow, electrical planning and surface materials before anything is fixed in place. That level of involvement from the outset produces a far more considered and cohesive result.
Working on period properties in Surrey is also particularly rewarding. The character is already there in the architecture and my role is to work with it, not against it.
One thing that surprises many clients is how long the design process takes. Thorough design cannot be rushed: sourcing the right products alone is enormously time-consuming and the responsibility that comes with those decisions is significant. Every specification must be right: the right material, the right finish, the right supplier, at the right price point.
I invest heavily in accurate 3D visuals and detailed technical design packs for this reason. Visuals give clients clarity and confidence to approve the design with conviction, while precise technical drawings remove ambiguity for contractors and ensure the design is executed exactly as intended. Both are essential tools for reducing risk on site.
The most challenging aspect for me personally is managing the commercial side of a project: procurement, budget control, project timelines and making sure the client's investment is well protected throughout. These are not the visible or glamorous parts of interior design, but they are what separates a well-run project from a stressful one. Getting those elements right is just as important as the design itself.
Project management and clear communication with clients, contractors and suppliers are skills I understood to be important early on. What I did not fully appreciate was how much time and effort goes into marketing a design practice and how central it becomes to building a sustainable business.
When you are deeply involved in delivering projects, marketing is very easily neglected. Yet it is what keeps the pipeline moving. Professional photography matters more than most new designers realise: if your work is not documented well, it simply does not exist online. The same applies to video. Capturing project progress gives potential clients a much clearer picture of what working with you looks like and that is valuable.
The honest reality is that running a design practice means wearing many hats. The design work is only part of it and the sooner you invest in presenting that work properly, the better.
Spend time working within an established design studio before setting out on your own. The skills and knowledge gained from being part of a design team, working on real projects with real clients, budgets and deadlines, are invaluable. No course fully prepares you for the pace and complexity of live projects. Hands-on experience builds a foundation that is very difficult to replicate any other way.
Beyond that, get the layout right before you think about anything else. Colour, materials and furnishings are all decisions that can be revisited; an incorrectly planned layout is far more difficult and costly to correct once a project is underway. I would encourage every aspiring designer to spend time studying spatial planning and to become genuinely comfortable with technical drawings. Good creative decisions start with a solid technical foundation. Clients who work with a designer who understands both the technical and aesthetic dimensions of a project get a far better result.
One shift I am already seeing is a move away from the perfectly curated, trend-driven interior towards spaces that feel personal, warm and genuinely lived in. With the rise of AI and social media, design trends spread quickly and spaces can start to look very similar as a result. Discerning homeowners are becoming more aware of this and are increasingly looking to create homes that have real character and personal meaning rather than simply reflecting what is popular at a given moment.
This is where the value of a personalised, relationship-led service becomes more important. A designer who takes the time to understand how a client actually lives and who is prepared to go deeper rather than take on more projects will produce results that are unique and personal. I think clients will continue to seek that kind of thoughtful collaboration.
On the technology side, smart home automation is becoming an expected part of high-end residential design rather than an optional extra and integrating those systems from the outset requires careful planning. Sustainability is also increasingly front of mind: more clients are asking questions about where materials come from and how products are made. I believe that will only grow as a priority in the years ahead.
It means being part of a professional body that holds the industry to a standard I believe in. Interior design is a field where expertise and accountability genuinely matter: clients are making significant financial and personal decisions based on a designer's advice. The SBID accreditation signals that I have met a recognised professional benchmark. For my clients, it provides an additional layer of confidence when choosing to work with me.
As an independent designer working directly with clients on every project, it can be easy to work in isolation. SBID accreditation connects me to a wider community of designers and gives me access to industry events, networking opportunities and continued professional development that I would not otherwise have as a sole practitioner. Those resources matter: staying connected to the industry, learning from other professionals and keeping my knowledge current all feed directly into the quality of work I deliver for my clients.
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.
Paula Morrison, Founder and Lead Interior Designer at Paula Morrison Interiors, has given her insights into the industry.
My journey into the world of interior design was an intentional evolution from analysing the structure of language to shaping the structure of the built environment. Although my academic foundations are in Literature and Linguistics, I have always been drawn to the technical and creative rigour of architecture. This unique background allows me to approach design through the lens of narrative and syntax; I view a floor plan as a composition where every spatial element must "communicate" clearly to achieve a sense of balance.
I founded Paula Morrison Interiors to bring this philosophy to life, focusing on high-end residential projects that demand both analytical thinking and artistic vision. My work is characterised by a deep interest with spatial planning and structural logic. I enjoy the challenge of deconstructing complex, often restricted layouts to find a sense of equilibrium and flow.
Today, as Lead Designer, I pride myself on being a hands-on collaborator who bridges the gap between the client’s vision and the contractor’s execution. By treating spatial design as a form of physical storytelling, I ensure that every home I touch is not only aesthetically refined but also structurally coherent and intuitively functional.
While my academic roots are in literature and linguistics, I have always harboured a deep-seated fascination for architecture and the built environment. Literature taught me about narrative structure and the human experience, but I eventually felt a pull toward expressing those concepts physically. Interior design became the perfect bridge between my analytical background and my creative aspirations. It allowed me to transition from storytelling on a page to storytelling within a three-dimensional space. This career path offered the opportunity to develop my creative side while applying the disciplined, structural thinking I honed during my university years. Ultimately, I chose interior design because it combines the intellectual rigor of spatial logic with the artistic freedom to shape how people live, work, and interact with their surroundings.
The most rewarding aspect of the profession for me is the initial phase of spatial planning and gaining a deep, structural understanding of a site. I find immense satisfaction in reviewing a floor plan to reveal its hidden potential and then reconfiguring it to optimize flow, light, and functionality. This "puzzle-solving" element of design - where ergonomics meets aesthetics - is where I feel most inspired. To me, a well-designed plan is the indispensable foundation of any successful renovation. I firmly believe that without great spatial planning, the final result can never truly succeed; no amount of luxury finishes or beautiful furniture can fix a space that doesn't function logically. Achieving that perfect equilibrium in a layout is the most satisfying part of my work, as it provides the robust, purposeful canvas required for the rest of the design to shine.
The highlight of my past year was successfully navigating a project involving a highly complex structure with extremely tight, restricted spaces. The challenge lay in maximising every square centimetre without compromising the structural integrity or the user's comfort. I spent a significant amount of time on-site, analysing the building’s skeleton to find opportunities for clever storage and improved circulation. By reconfiguring the internal partitions and introducing bespoke joinery, I transformed a rather cramped, fragmented layout into an open and functional space. Seeing the technical plans come to life in such a challenging footprint was incredibly rewarding. It reaffirmed my passion for the technical side of design and proved that even the most constrained spaces can be made to feel expansive and logical through precise spatial engineering.
I am most passionate about residential projects because they allow for a deep, personal impact on the way people experience their daily lives. In a home, every design decision - from the placement of a structural wall to the choice of lighting - has a direct effect on the inhabitants' well-being. I enjoy the process of tailoring a space to a family's specific needs, ensuring that the final result is as functional as it is beautiful. Residential design requires a unique balance of technical precision and empathy; you have to understand how someone moves through their morning routine or how they entertain guests. Solving the structural puzzles inherent in a renovation to make a house work better for its owners is, for me, the most fulfilling application of my skills as a designer.
One of the most challenging aspects of interior design is managing the intersection between creative vision and the practical realities of project execution. While the conceptual phase is exhilarating, translating those ideas into a functional reality involves navigating complex decisions, compromises and budgetary constraints. Maintaining the integrity of a design while making necessary adjustments during the technical installation requires constant vigilance and precise communication with artisans, lighting specialists, and clients. It is a delicate balancing act to ensure the final result remains true to the original aesthetic intent without sacrificing the ergonomics or longevity of the space. Additionally, staying abreast of rapidly evolving material technologies and sustainable sourcing standards demands continuous learning. Ultimately, overcoming these intricate hurdles - ensuring every custom detail and lighting circuit aligns perfectly with the overall vision - is what makes the successful completion of a project so rewarding.
Before entering the field, I wish I had a clearer understanding of just how much of the role involves technical documentation and project management. While the public often views interior design as a purely aesthetic pursuit, the reality is that a significant portion of our time is spent producing detailed technical drawings, specifications, and coordinating with various trades. I quickly learned that even the most beautiful concept cannot be realized without precise communication and rigorous attention to detail. I also realised the importance of "people skills"- the ability to interpret a client’s unspoken needs and manage their expectations throughout a stressful renovation process. Fortunately, my background in linguistics proved to be an unexpected asset here, helping me navigate the nuances of client communication and the structured logic required for documentation.
My primary tip for aspiring designers is to master the fundamentals of spatial planning and structural logic before focusing on the decorative elements. While colours, textures, and furniture are vital components of a beautiful interior, they cannot fix a poorly planned space. Spend time learning how to read architectural drawings and understand the flow of movement within a building. A design that functions perfectly will always feel more luxurious and successful than one that is simply "decorated." I would also encourage newcomers to remain curious and interdisciplinary; don't be afraid to draw inspiration from fields outside of design, whether that’s literature, science, or psychology. Having a diverse range of interests will give your work a unique depth and a stronger narrative voice.
The integration of AI is fascinating and will undoubtedly streamline our administrative and rendering processes, but I believe the year ahead will emphasise that technology can never replace the human touch. Design is inherently contextual and physical; an algorithm cannot truly understand the unique "feel" of a site or the specific nuances of a client’s lifestyle. Real-world expertise remains essential for on-site problem-solving, such as assisting contractors with structural anomalies or the precise positioning of architectural lighting to enhance a room's atmosphere. I see the industry evolving to use AI as a powerful assistant, while the designer’s primary value remains their ability to synthesise technical knowledge, emotional intelligence, and on-site management to deliver a project that works in the real world.
To me, being an SBID Accredited Interior Designer represents a privilege and commitment to the highest standards of professional conduct and technical excellence. In an industry that is often misunderstood, this accreditation serves as a hallmark of quality and integrity, providing clients with the assurance that they are working with a qualified professional who adheres to a strict code of ethics. It signifies that my work is grounded in formal training and a dedication to continuous professional development. Beyond the individual benefits, being part of the SBID community offers a platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing with like-minded peers globally. It reinforces the idea that interior design is a serious, multifaceted discipline that requires a balance of creative vision and technical rigor, validating my journey into this profession.
About Paula Morrison Interiors
Based in Surrey, Paula Morrison Interiors is a premier residential design studio dedicated to crafting elegant, timeless spaces. Specialising in high-end full house renovations and bespoke styling, the studio seamlessly blends classic charm with modern sophistication. Paula’s signature aesthetic focuses on refined palettes, rich textures, and functional luxury, ensuring every home feels entirely unique and personal yet remains impeccably polished. From conceptual planning to final installation, the studio provides a comprehensive service tailored to each client’s lifestyle. Whether transforming a period property or a contemporary residence, we deliver sophisticated, exceptional interiors that exude warmth and character across London and Surrey.
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