Claudine Murphy, Founder and Lead Designer at Doverfield Designs, has given her insights into the industry.
I started out my career working in exhibition management for commercial art galleries where my days ranged from working with artist studios on how to make their visions for exhibitions come to life (indoor pool anyone? and yes, we did make that happen!) to working with clients on curating artwork for their homes across the globe.
I’m no stranger to understanding spaces and how each element can affect your experience in a room. This led to a natural progression from the gallery world into interior design. I trained at KLC School of Design and went on to work with several London based design studios (These White Walls, Nefarious Design & Studio RioLondon).
I set up Doverfield Designs in 2023 and have been lucky to work on some great projects with even greater clients!
It wasn’t something I had always dreamed of but working in art galleries I really understood how people experience a space and the journey it can take them on. A huge part of that job was managing clients, complicated logistics and problem solving. I think most designers would agree that those are some of the most important skills aside from the actual designing.
The shift happened for me after I had worked my way up to managerial roles in 2 galleries and I felt like I was ready for my next challenge. Interiors was a natural progression and so I retrained and set about working my way up in this industry.
One of the most rewarding aspects of interior design is the opportunity to create spaces that genuinely improve people’s lives. The ability to design environments that support our client’s lifestyles and needs is incredibly fulfilling. I particularly enjoy the personal connections I build with clients and the challenge of translating their unique preferences and needs into functional, beautiful designs. The process of understanding a client’s vision and then bringing it to life in a way that exceeds their expectations is always a highlight for me.
Then there is the transformation. It’s easy for us to forget where a project started, especially when you see it progress every step of the way. So, seeing the finished results compared with the before is incredibly rewarding.
I think having a 6 double page spread in an interior’s publication (Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms) a few months into opening the studio will always be a proud moment.
I wrote a list of goals I’d like to achieve and that was pretty high up so I can’t believe it happened so quickly. It was a great experience walking into shops and being able to pick it up off the shelf, flick through and see my work!
I particularly enjoy working on residential projects because they allow me to create deeply personal spaces that reflect the client's individual style and lifestyle. There’s something incredibly rewarding about taking a house and transforming it into a home where people feel comfortable and at ease.
I also enjoy the creative challenge of balancing aesthetics with functionality—every decision must serve both the emotional and practical needs of our clients.
One of the most challenging aspects of interior design is managing client expectations. Every project is a collaboration and aligning a client’s vision with what’s realistically achievable—within time, budget, and space constraints—can be tricky. Clients often come with big dreams, and part of my job is to guide them through the process of prioritising and making informed decisions, while still delivering a design that reflects their desires.
Another challenge is navigating the logistics and coordination between various stakeholders. Keeping everything on track, ensuring deadlines are met, and handling unforeseen issues that arise during construction can be stressful. Despite these challenges, the process of seeing a project through from concept to completion is incredibly rewarding.
One thing I wish I had known earlier in my career is the importance of networking and relationship-building within the industry. Interior design is often a team effort, and forming strong relationships with contractors, suppliers, and other designers can really make a difference in the success of a project.
If you don’t have a reliable team to work with then it really can make or break a project. More often than not you have to learn this the hard way!
My advice to aspiring designers would be to develop a strong foundation in both creativity and practicality. The ability to think outside the box is critical, but it’s equally important to understand the technical aspects of design, from building codes to spatial planning. The most successful designers I know strike a balance between innovation and functionality. The more you learn about materials, construction processes, and how spaces work on a physical level, the better you can bring your creative ideas to life.
Another important tip is to stay curious and never stop learning. The design world is constantly evolving—whether it's new trends, technologies, or materials. Keeping an open mind and being willing to experiment with different styles and methods will help you grow as a designer and stay relevant in the field.
The interior design industry is likely to continue its shift toward more sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Clients are becoming increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their choices, and designers are responding by sourcing sustainable materials, incorporating energy-efficient solutions, and creating spaces that prioritise health and well-being. This trend is not just about aesthetics but about creating long-lasting, responsible designs that can positively impact the environment.
The industry is also still very much feeling the disruption to the supply of materials from Europe, as new customs regulations, tariffs, and border controls have slowed down imports. This has led to delays in projects, increased costs for materials, and even shortages of certain products, which has required interior designers to be more resourceful and adaptable. Many designers are now more focused on sourcing locally to mitigate the risks of supply chain interruptions.
Being accredited with the SBID is a huge accomplishment. The rise of interior design in the past few years has been meteoric and the interest in the profession has also increased significantly. What is important to note is that interior design isn’t just about choosing paint colours and fluffing cushions as people sometimes think.
The technical aspects and knowledge you need to have to run a project in a responsible manner is hugely important. We aren’t a regulated industry so by being accredited with the SBID it demonstrates that I am a trained, experienced and therefore qualified interior designer that clients can trust. I feel very proud to display that badge on my website.
About Doverfield Designs
Doverfield Designs is London based interior design studio specialising in full service renovation projects. They craft cosy and inviting homes across London and the surrounding areas with a focus on creating homes that aren’t just beautiful but also functional.
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If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.
Iliada Rossi, Design Director at Rossi Studio, has given her insights into the industry.
With a passion for architecture and interior design spanning over ten years, Iliada has dedicated her career to transforming spaces into personalised havens. Iliada is known for her excellent communication skills and her ability to listen attentively to clients, translating their ideas into reality. Her attention to detail ensures that every project embodies modern elegance and timeless sophistication, perfectly tailored to each client's lifestyle.
I was born in Brasília, surrounded by the architectural masterpieces of Oscar Niemeyer, which sparked my love for architecture from a young age. Living in a city where design was at the forefront of everyday life shaped my appreciation for how spaces can influence people. Over the years, my travels around the world deepened my passion for different design styles, cultures, and architectural techniques. I’ve always been inspired by how diverse environments can evoke different emotions and how design can improve daily life. Interior design became the perfect way for me to blend my love for architecture with my creativity and passion for transforming spaces.
One of the things I enjoy most is creating spaces that truly reflect my clients’ needs and lifestyle, while adding a touch of my own style to make it unique. I love working closely with my clients, getting to know them on a personal level to understand what they want and need from their spaces. This connection helps me design in a way that feels personal and tailored. Designing is also a creative outlet for me, where I can bring my artistic side to life. Finally, I enjoy the project management side of things, ensuring that every detail is executed as planned and the vision comes to life exactly as imagined.
One of the most memorable highlights from the past year was working on a stunning period property from the Arts and Crafts movement. The project gave us the opportunity to preserve and enhance the beautiful original features while incorporating modern touches to inspire the renovation. We designed a few rooms in keeping with the Arts and Crafts style, paying homage to the intricate details of the era. In a separate wing of the house, we undertook a complex architectural project, removing the old service staircase and partitions to open up the space. Alongside the design work, we ensured the house was fully insulated and energy efficient, integrating home automation and modern amenities. It was a comprehensive project that required careful attention to balance modern design elements with the property's historic charm, resulting in one of our most beautiful and fulfilling works.
My favourite projects are those that involve construction, renovation, or refurbishment, where we can work from concept to completion. I love projects that allow us to manage the entire process through to the final details, offering a full turnkey service to our clients. This approach gives us complete control over the project, ensuring that the design vision is delivered exactly as imagined. It’s incredibly rewarding to see a space transform from initial ideas to a fully finished, functional, and beautiful environment, all while managing the process to ensure everything runs smoothly.
One of the most challenging aspects is managing and coordinating multiple stakeholders and suppliers while ensuring that services and products are delivered to the highest standards. With each project, there are many moving parts—contractors, suppliers, and other professionals—all working towards the same goal. Keeping everything on track and aligned with the project’s vision can be complex. Fortunately, I’m lucky to work with a team that excels at this. Our strong communication, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence ensure that everything runs smoothly and that we always meet or exceed our clients’ expectations. This collaboration makes all the difference in delivering a seamless, high-quality result.
Before transitioning into interior design, I had a completely different career. Looking back, I wish I had known just how rewarding it is to bring design projects to life. There’s nothing quite like seeing a space transform and knowing that it will have a lasting impact on my clients’ lives. I also didn’t fully realise how much I would love working with my artistic side—design allows me to express creativity while solving real-world problems. Every project is an opportunity to blend my vision with my client’s needs, creating personal and inspiring spaces. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that I’m making a difference in how people experience their environments, and I truly cherish the ability to do so every day.
Never stop learning. Interior design is a constantly evolving field, and the more you explore, the more you'll discover new techniques, materials, and perspectives that can elevate your work. It’s truly fulfilling to challenge yourself and grow through every experience. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore beauty in things that might not be conventional to you. Embrace different styles, cultures, and inspirations from around the world. The richness of diverse ideas will shape your creativity and help you develop your unique design voice. Being open to new ideas and learning from everything around you is what will set you apart and keep your designs fresh and relevant.
The interior design industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and innovations shaping the way we create spaces. As we move forward, technology will continue to play a significant role, making interiors not only more functional but also more sustainable. Smart home systems, energy-efficient solutions, and eco-friendly materials will be at the forefront of design, allowing us to create spaces that are both beautiful and responsible. At the same time, the emotional aspect of design will remain key, with the goal of bringing people a sense of comfort and well-being in their environments. As we integrate these advancements, well-designed spaces will continue to inspire and enhance our everyday experiences.
Being an SBID Accredited Interior Designer is something I’m really proud of! It’s a wonderful recognition of my passion for design and my commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality and professionalism. For me, it’s all about giving my clients confidence that they’re in good hands, knowing I’m dedicated to creating beautiful and functional spaces that truly reflect their needs and lifestyles.
SBID accreditation also motivates me to keep learning and growing. The design world is always evolving, and being part of this amazing community encourages me to stay on top of new trends and innovations so I can bring fresh, exciting ideas to every project. It’s also a great way to connect with other talented designers and share knowledge, which is so inspiring!
About Rossi Studio
At Rossi Studio, we transform houses into personalised, modern homes that exude elegance and timeless luxury. Our comprehensive services ensure a seamless journey from concept to completion, delivering spaces that truly reflect your identity.
C.P. Hart is thrilled to announce its newest room set collaboration with the renowned designer Matthew Williamson, debuting at its Waterloo showroom this December.
Matthew Williamson is an award-winning, British interior designer known predominantly for his unique and unrivalled use of pattern and colour. Having begun his illustrious career in global fashion under his namesake brand over 20 years ago, Matthew has drawn on his decades of experience and pivoted seamlessly into the world of interior design. Matthew now develops several homeware collections to sit alongside his growing residential and commercial interior design portfolio.
“Bathrooms often feel cold and clinical with functionality dominating aesthetics, so I envisioned a warm, inviting space that functions as well as delights,” shares Matthew.
In this striking room set display, Matthew masterfully blends a curated selection of C.P. Hart’s most sought-after bathroom ranges with his distinctive, handsourced treasures. A vintage mouthblown Murano glass light hangs above IdeaGroup’s new Seven freestanding bath; a bespoke mirror overlooks Buto’s fluted Galiano vanity; artwork carefully selected by Matthew mirrors the bright hues of our Inclusion Classico tiles underfoot.
“Living in the coastal village of Deià, I was influenced by the local Mallorcan landscape and Balearic interiors,” Matthew adds. “The sunset’s pink-gold glow inspired the palette; sand-toned terrazzo, blush pink marble and concrete, rosewood, plaster walls, brass, and rattan.”
“Creating this room set was a wonderfully collaborative process,” says Yousef Mansuri, C.P. Hart’s Director of Design. “Matthew brought a clear and inspiring vision to the project, and from there, we meticulously refined the details, thoughtfully selecting each product and finish to ensure they harmonise beautifully whilst retaining their standout appeal.”
Bath: Seven Freestanding Bath in Sahara Matt by IdeaGroup - £3,681 Brassware: Venezia Wall-Mounted Basin Mixers with Nice Spout in Bespoke Pure Brass PVD, Venini Red Murano Glass Handles by Fantini - From £890, Nostromo Floor-Standing Bath Mixer in Standard Pure Brass PVD by Fantini - £4,043 Vanity: Bespoke Galiano Vanity in Brunette Oak with Marble Top in Breccia Rossa by Buto - £4,717 Basin: Petra Domed Oval Washbasins in Beige Stone - Price On Application WC: Shui Wall-Mounted WC in Linoby by Cielo - £1,015 Floor Tiles: Inclusion Classico Tiles in Matt - £88 Per Tile Wall Tiles: Cromie 15mm in Mixed Finishes - £3 Per Tile Mirror: Bespoke Mirror by Buto - £1,667 Lighting: Vintage Pendant and Wall Light
Prices include VAT
About C.P. Hart
C.P. Hart are an established bathroom supplier with over 80 years’ experience of specifying and sourcing the world’s most innovative and durable premium bathroom products. A successful Contracts division works for architects, interior designers and builders, often on major commercial property developments and hotels. While a highly qualified in-house design team works with individual and private clients, ensuring that each of these bespoke bathrooms is unique.
This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a rustic and cosy residential design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Katja Kessler Kreation.
The entire building was carefully gutted to gain space. Downstairs all walls were removed creating an inviting lounge-like kitchen-living room. Recycled brushed pine flooring, old grain sacks as couch covers and brick walls stripped of plaster give the place a unique fingerprint. Old and modern elements were carefully arranged in order to link the landmark nature of the building with the amenities of a modern family home. In the first floor a master bedroom and two guest rooms each of it with own ensuite bathroom found their place.
SBID Awards Category: Residential House Over £1M
Practice: Katja Kessler Kreation
Project: Villa Meeresstern
Location: Greifswald, Germany
The client approached us with a daring idea: to revitalise a 19th century sleazy Baltic Sea villa that for decades had been inhabited by bats only. He had discovered the ruin during a stroll along the coastline of the German island Usedom and fell in love at first sight. Not only that he wanted us to preserve the vastly deteriorated landmark nature of the building, but at the same time he envisioned a welcoming warm cosy family nest, a place to host family and guests comfortably.
The proximity to the Baltic Sea, seagulls screeching, wind blowing, endless sound of the waves – that all created a strong impression of freedom and the power of untamed nature which to us felt had to be translated into an interior design that echoed all these emotions. Moreover, we discovered that from 1906 to 1916, Engelbert Humperdinck, student of music legend Richard Wagner and composer of the world-famous opera “Hensel & Gretel” lodged in the VILLA MEERESSTERN, then a guesthouse, to compose the opening music theme for Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”. Therefore, our mission was not only to renovate a spectacular old house but to worship the place and treat it with respect to its historic significance. We decided to reuse whatever we could: old wooden floorings, ancient brick walls, weathered cobblestones – all these components were carefully obtained and secured to be used again later or reinforced to its original grandeur.
The original interior design of the building was designed by Dracula – or was at least deeply inspired by him. On the ground floor: tiny rooms cramped by cold walls, and not a glimpse of sunlight. In the attic and basement: the same. There was no way that we would be able to remodel this into a cosy, sun-drenched, warm family beach home making some minor adjustments here and there. Instead, the whole layout had to be rethought. Where to fit the kitchen, where the living-room, and how would it all work together? It needed some crazy dramatic solutions for these problems.
While the building’s outer surface was kept untouched (more or less), for the inside we came up with a design called “the no wall policy”: the entirety of the ground floor was gutted. This created an open room that nurtured the sense of togetherness. Kitchen, living room, study, conservatory, and dining place merged into one spacious lounge-like loft that allowed light to enter from all sides through 3-meter-high windows. This opened unbelievable visual axes and revealed the full beauty of the surrounding landscape including the endless blue of the sea and the blossoming garden.
To arrive at the sight for the first time seeing that the ground floor had been stripped of all inner walls, the outer walls freed from plaster, the old pine flooring recycled and brushed, and the sun shining into the house all the way through – that was kind of a solemn breath-taking moment.
I've been following the SBID Awards for a long time and have repeatedly been inspired and impressed by the submitted projects. This year, I thought now or never and submitted my own application.
So many people congratulated us for the nomination via social media. It feels like participating in a kind of interior Oscar. That alone has been a great compliment for me and the rest of my team.
Questions answered by Katja Kessler, Founder of Katja Kessler Kreation.
We hope you feel inspired by this week's design!
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a timeless and elegant apartment design by Angel O'Donnell, click here to read it.
This stunning mews house, tucked away in the charming neighbourhood of Little Venice in West London, offered the perfect canvas for a full interior transformation from Amy Stoddart Studio.
Our clients entrusted us with reimagining every aspect of the space. We reconfigured the layout by relocating walls, repositioning bathrooms, adding custom walk-in wardrobes, and even redesigning the staircase to introduce a fresh, modern aesthetic.
Redesigning the staircase presented its own unique challenges. The tight turns connecting the first and second floors required us to enlist the expertise of a specialised handrail company, featuring master woodworkers skilled in creating and manipulating intricate curves. Their craftsmanship ensured that the transitions were seamless and elegant, transforming the staircase into a striking focal point that enhances both the functionality and aesthetic of the home.
Due to the property’s protected status, we faced restrictions on certain original features, such as the windows. This made it essential to use light-reflective materials that would amplify the natural light, enhancing the home’s airy, open feel while preserving its original charm.
One of our favourite elements is the custom-designed headboard in the main bedroom, which spans the entire width of the room. This longer, lower headboard emphasises horizontal lines, subtly drawing the eye across the space rather than up, creating a sense of openness that makes the ceiling feel higher and the room feel airier. We paired this centrepiece with striking Marc Wood pendants on either side of the bed, featuring his signature fluted glass—a motif we carried throughout the property to create a cohesive, sophisticated look.
The final look is effortlessly sophisticated, with a relaxed ambiance that highlights soft, neutral tones—striking a perfect balance between contemporary style and timeless elegance.
About Amy Stoddart Studio Ltd.
Amy Stoddart Studios love designing eclectic and fun interiors, their designs seek to maximise the potential of each space and create environments that are unique and thoughtfully considered to suit each clients way of life. Most recently working on high-end residential projects, along with luxury office spaces, director suites and bars. Amy studied Furniture Design at Lincoln University, graduating with a 1st Class Honours Degree. Upon finishing her degree she went on to work for very well regarded design studios in London, with a focus on the high-end residential market. She has work featured in various magazines, been nominated for numerous awards and recently won ‘Ultimate Luxury Kitchen Design’.
Amy Stoddart, Creative Director at Amy Stoddart Studio, has given her insights into the industry.
I graduated with a first class hons BA in Furniture Design in 2015. I worked predominantly in kitchens and bathrooms for 5 years before starting my own interior design company in 2020.
I've always favoured my creative side! Initially, I wanted to explore the world of graphic design, but after gaining some work experience, I quickly realised that it wasn’t the right fit for me. Growing up, I often rearranged my room and experimented with painting it in various colours—usually directing my Dad to do this for me! For a few years, one of my walls was painted in two different shades of green with a funky zigzag running through the middle. It was a bold choice!
I began my journey by studying Furniture Design, knowing that entering this industry directly would be challenging. However, I soon discovered that interior design would serve as a great ‘segway’ into designing furniture and products. Now, I am frequently designing bespoke furniture pieces for my clients that suit their needs and individual requirements perfectly.
I really enjoy the initial concept stages of a project. There’s something magical about pulling out all my samples—fabrics, finishes, colours—and assembling them into a mood board. This process allows me to visualise the overall aesthetic and atmosphere we want to achieve, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to see the vision come together.
However, the most rewarding part of my work is undoubtedly seeing the completed space and witnessing my clients' reactions. When they step into their newly designed home and express their happiness, it makes all the hard work worthwhile.
This past year has been incredibly exciting for me as I was nominated for an SBID award, which truly validated my work and dedication to the field. It’s an honour to be recognised among such talented designers, and it motivates me to keep pushing the boundaries of my creativity!
Additionally, I recently landed my biggest project to date—a stunning 21,000 sq. ft. private family home. The scale and complexity of this project have presented unique challenges, but they also allow for a level of creativity that I absolutely love. I’m thrilled to work closely with the family to create a space that perfectly suits their needs and reflects their lifestyle.
My favourite projects are definitely bespoke residential jobs, particularly whole house turnkey renovations. I find immense satisfaction in spending 12 to 24 months with clients as we collaboratively build their dream homes. This extended time frame allows me to truly understand their lifestyle, preferences, and unique needs. Working closely with clients throughout the process helps me grasp the intricacies of their design vision, ensuring that every detail aligns with how they live!
One of the most challenging aspects of working in interior design is the project management side of things. Coordinating timelines, budgets, and various contractors can be complex, especially when unexpected issues arise. Ensuring that everything runs smoothly while maintaining the design vision requires careful planning and flexibility.
Before diving into the world of interior design, I wish I had a clearer understanding of the complexities involved in project management. While I was aware of the creative aspects of design, I think it's common to overlook the importance of coordinating timelines, budgets, and vendor relationships.
I would encourage aspiring interior designers to gain a strong foundation in design principles through education and practical experience. Networking is crucial in this field, so connecting with established professionals can provide valuable insights and opportunities. Lastly, always stay curious and open to new ideas, trade shows are a great example of this!
I’m excited about the growing focus on sustainability in design. More clients are seeking eco-friendly materials and practices, which not only benefit the environment but also add unique character to spaces. We are members of 1% for the Planet, which means we donate 1% of our profits every year to a charity that focuses on saving the planet!
First and foremost, it establishes a level of trust and credibility with my clients. They can feel confident knowing that I adhere to the highest industry standards and best practices, which ultimately enhances their experience throughout the design process. Being part of the SBID community is incredibly valuable as it connects me with other talented professionals, allowing us to exchange ideas, insights, and inspiration!
Balan and Nambisan Architects have designed this modern industrial home for a young couple and their toddler twins, filled with surprises around every corner all the way into the bathrooms. Sitting on a quiet lane of a busy neighbourhood, this penthouse sits at a vantage point to watch planes take-off from the runway next door.
The house is split into two parts with very practical serviceability hidden away behind multiple pocket doors. One wing houses the entertainment pad - souped up with a media lounge, convertible guest bed and an indoor and outdoor bar perfect to bring the parties home.
The other wing boasts a dramatic double height family, dining and kitchen area into which the upper level of bedrooms look into. Chunky steel beams punctuate the volume, dipping low to embrace human scale.
A lush balcony with a Jacuzzi surrounded by dense foliage acts as an oasis amidst a concrete jungle.
Each sleep-suite is fully equipped with the works for its respective users - a playful loft for the twins, a glamorous walk-in with an ensuite to match for the missus, and a moody jet-black rock-cut skylit shower for the mister.
The structure is left raw like an exoskeleton - the corrugated underdecks painted a cold grey set against dark rafters and beams and exposed tracks to light up the whole space.
A delicate cluster of handmade metal discs light up the double height volume in stark contrast. The entire house is a vibe of its own, only short of its vibrant occupants.
About Balan and Nambisan Architects
An award winning architecture and interior design practice with offices in London and Bangalore. The new London office is led by Nilanjana Roy, one of three partners at BNA. With experience in the US, UK and India, she has returned to the UK with the strategic focus on expanding the studio's expertise to international markets. With her creative flair and rigorous attention to detail she has built up a roster of discerning clients. BNA's UK office offers services in Interior Architecture, Interior Design, FFE and Styling in the residential and hospitality sectors. Our network of skilled artisans along with global sourcing capabilities ensures a client's vision is transformed into reality.
As we step into 2025, kitchen design trends are taking a turn towards nature-inspired elements, textured surfaces and a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship and quality. This is something that chimes perfectly with the values of Ledbury Studio, where the team have always championed sustainability and the beauty of understated luxury. Here's Ledbury Studio's take on how those trends are set to redefine the heart of the home in the coming year.
Natural stone and sustainably sourced wood are increasingly popular in our kitchens, mirroring a broader societal move to reconnect with nature. Materials like marble, granite and richly grained woods such as oak and walnut are being celebrated for their unique imperfections, adding depth and authenticity to kitchen spaces. These elements don't just look great, they also tell a story and give each kitchen individual character.
Techniques like reeding and fluting, often applied to kitchen islands and cabinetry, add a rhythmic, sculptural quality to kitchen designs that feels both modern and timeless. Textured wood finishes, whether through hand-carved detailing or treatments that highlight natural grain, bring a sense of warmth and craftsmanship to kitchen designs. For example, Ledbury Studio's signature 'Choppy Water' surface, adds a tactile dimension to cabinetry and islands, softening the typically hard lines of kitchen spaces.
Distressed metals are making a strong comeback in 2025, offering a unique blend of character and history to kitchen interiors. Unlike the perfection of highly polished finishes, distressed metals bring a sense of heritage and authenticity to contemporary spaces. Their distinctive patinas add visual interest and evoke a feeling of craftsmanship that enriches the overall design. For those looking to create a warm, inviting atmosphere, these metals offer the perfect balance of rustic charm and modern elegance, transforming the kitchen into a lived-in, welcoming space.
The appreciation for mid-century design continues and deep wood tones, particularly walnut, are making a strong statement in today's kitchens. This rich, elegant wood, known for its complex patterns and warm hues, is being used in everything from cabinetry to furniture pieces, offering a sense of sophistication and grounded beauty. The appeal of mid-century design lies in its ability to blend form and function seamlessly, making it an enduring favourite for those seeking both style and practicality.
Quiet luxury is once again poised to be one of the defining trends of 2025. This design philosophy moves away from ostentation, instead embracing materials that are inherently luxurious, such as natural stone and fine woods. The result is a refined, serene atmosphere that feels effortlessly sophisticated. Quiet luxury also champions the principle of 'buying once, buying well', encouraging investment in durable designs that will stand the test of time. It's a smart, stylish approach for those who value longevity and authenticity in their home and bespoke kitchen furniture fits perfectly within it.
One of the most exciting emerging trends is the combination of stainless steel with wood and painted finishes. This design approach creates a striking visual contrast, balancing the sleek, industrial aesthetic of stainless steel with the warmth of wood or the soft tones of painted cabinetry. Coming soon to several stunning Ledbury Studio kitchen designs!
About Ledbury Studio
Charlie Smallbone needs little introduction. The founder of iconic brand Smallbone of Devizes, he has been pushing the boundaries of kitchen design for over 40 years. Charlie’s latest venture, Ledbury Studio, was born of his desire to harness the beauty of original materials whilst creating practical kitchens that exude style and elegance.
Perched on the banks of Regent’s Canal, Little Venice sees the transformation of an antiquated bathroom into an eclectic pink and green sanctuary, as envisioned by the C.P. Hart Design team through its award-winning Design Service.
The bathroom of Little Venice is an intimate space that required careful design consideration to fully optimise the floor plan. Working in close collaboration with the owner, the C.P. Hart Design team specified a generous inset bath with an integrated shower, a reduced-depth vanity unit and mirror cabinet for ample storage, and a wall-hung WC mounted beneath decorative niches.
Brushed Gold brassware features throughout the bathroom, all specified from C.P. Hart’s exclusive and highly sought-after Epoch collection. In the shower, a three-way diverter controls the overhead shower, hand shower, and bath filler. The Epoch wall-mounted mixer was chosen for the basin, installed above the Cielo Shui Washbowl in ‘Muschio’ to free space on the Cubik vanity.
“We boxed out the back wall to give the impression of a more open space,” explains the designers. “This allowed the Cielo Oval mirror cabinet to sit on the wall without infringing on the basin, whilst also creating a distinct separation for the ‘White’ Luminous Lume tiles and providing a ledge for accessories.”
“To add more depth and visual interest, we replaced the ‘White’ Luminous Lume tiles with their ‘Green’ counterparts in each niche,” shares the team. “Both the niches and Astro Tacoma Twin light, installed above the mirror cabinet, are dimmable – the perfect year-round ambience setter.”
“The owner originally briefed a checkerboard floor, though upon review of the 3D visuals, we decided the black and white pattern would prove too strong a contrast against the bathroom’s finishes. Instead, we opted for softer stone-effect grey and cream checked tiles, boasting a similar weathered aesthetic to the wall tiling.”
Farrow & Ball’s ‘Middleton Pink’ finishes the bathroom with playful charm.
C.P. Hart’s award-winning Design Service offers a seamless client experience at every step. Two individuals are assigned to every project: a qualified designer to make the best possible use of available space, propose creative solutions, and interpret each customer’s vision, and a sales consultant to manage the process. To find out more, please call C.P. Hart on 020 7902 1020, email [email protected], or download a brochure here.
Don't miss out on C.P. Hart's Autumn Promotion for up to 40% off! You can get complementary underfloor heating with any showroom tile order*
Emma Hemmings, Founder of Emma Louise Home Design, has given her insights into the industry.
My career in interior design began in 2014 when I managed and designed my own home renovations. This experience led to project management and design work for friends and family, sparking a passion for creating spaces that felt both rewarding and inspiring. It was this realisation that motivated me to pursue interior design as a professional career.
With a BSc and MSc from Bristol and Southampton Universities, and a young family to consider, I decided against returning to formal education for a degree or diploma in interior design. Instead, I took an independent approach, focusing on key areas like mastering 3D design software and attending CPD (Continuing Professional Development) events, especially in lighting, hosted by leading brands.
Building relationships with trade professionals during those early projects was invaluable, as I gained hands-on insights into the various elements of interior design, including kitchens, bathrooms, and joinery. Today, I regularly attend industry events to stay updated on the latest trends and maintain close connections with suppliers to better understand the products and ranges available.
For me, working with samples, textures, and creating design schemes is my "happy place." I am passionate about crafting spaces that inspire and evoke happiness. Each project is unique, designed with specific people, functions, and emotions in mind.
Having experienced firsthand how changes in my home and workspace impacted my mood and productivity, I know I'll never tire of working with clients to help them transform their spaces and build confidence in their design choices.
It's hard to choose because interior design is such a multifaceted profession, and no two projects are ever alike. However, I particularly enjoy the process of understanding my clients on a personal level to design spaces that reflect their personalities, and I thrive in the creative challenge of bringing those ideas to life.
Lighting and colour are two elements that fascinate me the most. Lighting is both technical and creative - being able to design lighting that enhances architecture and sets the perfect mood is incredibly exciting. Colour, on the other hand, is like a science. It has a profound impact on how a space feels, its perceived size, and the emotions it evokes. Both elements are endlessly inspiring to me.
One of my most memorable highlights was styling and photographing a recent project at Sandy Lane alongside Joey Kendal Brown. The project involved complete kitchen design with Jack Meadows Bespoke, as well as colour and lighting consultation. Seeing the space come to life and knowing I had a hand in every aspect of the design was deeply rewarding.
I love residential projects, regardless of size. Working with clients to design their homes feels like a privilege. Homes are deeply personal, serving as spaces where people interact with loved ones, work, relax, and create memories. Being involved from the early stages - planning layouts, lighting design, and overall aesthetics, through to styling - is incredibly fulfilling.
Interior design, like any profession, comes with its challenges. One key challenge is keeping up with advances in technology. While I love hand-drawing, there’s no denying the value of computer-aided design in communicating ideas effectively.
Managing client expectations is another important aspect - setting realistic goals and working as a team with the client is crucial. Finally, staying on top of design trends while striving for timeless designs can be tricky. While trends are exciting, my aim is always to create designs that clients will love for years to come.
My journey into interior design felt a bit unconventional. I project-managed my own home renovations, fell in love with the process, and then sought out learning opportunities to deepen my knowledge. Starting with an understanding of the value of project planning, timelines, communication, and navigating the unpredictable nature of home renovations was, in hindsight, invaluable. These practical elements of the job - often harder to teach or fully grasp until you're in the field - have given me an edge.
I’ve come to realise that interior design involves so much more than creating beautiful spaces with colours and textures. There’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work that is essential to bringing those designs to life.
That said, perhaps someone should have warned me that my mind would never fully switch off! I find myself constantly analysing architectural details, colours, and textures wherever I go, but I suppose that’s just part of loving what I do.
Take time to discover which elements of design excite you the most, and focus on developing your expertise in one or two of those areas. This will help you stand out and bring a unique perspective to your work.
AI is becoming a major player in the industry, and I believe it will have a positive impact, especially in facilitating design communication. However, I am confident that AI cannot replace the personal connections we build with clients, nor can it fully understand the emotions and memories a space should evoke. I’m excited to see how the industry evolves in the coming year!
Being an SBID Accredited Interior Designer makes me feel like a valued member of the design industry. It’s an important recognition of my skills and dedication, and it gives me a sense of pride in my work.
About Emma Louise Home Design
Emma Louise Home Design is a Surrey based design studio working in Esher and its surrounding areas, as well as throughout the UK via our E-design service. Emma understands what it takes to bring a successful interior together; from the importance of early space planning with consideration to services such as electrical points and lighting design, to the way a space is ultimately styled - and everything in between. Emma works closely with every client to understand their individual brief, striving to exceed expectations and deliver within budget and to an agreed timeline. Taking time to understand the clients’ desires, key objectives and personal style, Emma connects at a personal level with every project.
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