Set on the edge of the historic Failand Estate, this charming Grade II Listed Coach House sits within a tranquil country setting surrounded by National Trust farmland and Forestry Commission woodland. Approached via a long driveway, the property enjoys a rare sense of privacy and rural calm, despite its close proximity to Clifton Village.
Originally built as an ancillary estate building, the Coach House has evolved over time into a private residence, retaining the proportions and architectural character typical of historic coach houses found throughout Bristol’s rural fringes. Generous ceiling heights, original detailing and established gardens give the property a strong sense of place, with both a secluded rear garden and a characterful front courtyard featuring a striking loggia.
Prior to our involvement, the property had been modernised and had lost much of its original charm and individuality. The clients approached Khaya Studio to help make the house feel special once again - seeking a home that felt timeless, characterful and lived in, while remaining practical for contemporary country living. As interior designers specialising in period property renovation across Bristol, Bath and Somerset, this project offered the perfect opportunity to reintroduce warmth, heritage and quiet elegance to a historic home.
Our design approach focused on restoring authenticity, warmth and proportion to this grand home, while ensuring the spaces felt comfortable, practical and lived in for modern life. Our first recommendation was to establish a stronger foundation within the hallway and principal living spaces. The existing carpet felt at odds with the period of the property, so we proposed natural limestone flagstones - more in keeping with a historic coach house and ideal for layering textured rugs. Underfloor heating was incorporated to enhance comfort while discreetly supporting contemporary living.
The colour palette was inspired by the surrounding landscape and the clients’ love of gardening. Soft, dusty greens were paired with warm, earthy orange tones to bring the outdoors in, while maintaining a welcoming, cocooning feel. Although the living and dining areas are open plan, subtle distinction was created through colour: the living space wrapped in green to feel grounded and intimate, and the dining area finished in a pale neutral to keep it light and relaxed.
Proportion and scale were central to the design. With generous ceiling heights and expansive proportions, the existing furniture felt disconnected. The original fireplace - the heart of the room - was celebrated with an oversized antique mirror echoing the home’s leaded windows, flanked by brass candle sconces. A striped loveseat was positioned beside the hearth, appearing as though it had always belonged there.
A large antique sideboard was introduced to discreetly house the television and provide storage, while a three-seater sofa was positioned within the window alcove, flanked by antique side tables and anchored by a brass coffee table. A quiet reading corner was created opposite, complete with an armchair, floor lamp and a treasured portrait of the client’s grandfather, which was integral to the scheme. The living area was unified with a generously scaled patterned rug, drawing together the colour palette.
In the dining space, bespoke banquette seating was designed to maximise seating and hidden storage, layered with cushions for comfort. An antique dining table sits at the centre, crowned by a floral-inspired pendant, while a picture light highlights artwork of personal significance. Throughout the scheme we sought to balance respect for the building’s heritage with timeless interior design, ensuring the Coach House once again feels special, soulful and deeply personal.
The completed scheme is a home that feels deeply considered, timeless and full of quiet confidence - one that honours its historic origins while supporting the rhythms of modern family life. What was once a space that had lost its charm has been transformed into a layered, characterful interior that feels both elevated and entirely welcoming.
Natural materials, carefully balanced colour palettes and thoughtfully scaled furnishings now work in harmony with the architecture of the Coach House. Original features have been celebrated rather than overshadowed, and each space feels cohesive, warm and beautifully resolved. The result is an interior that feels as though it has evolved naturally over time, rather than being overly designed.
It was an absolute joy to work on this project with such wonderful clients, and we felt truly honoured to be invited into this beautiful home. The collaborative nature of the process, combined with a shared appreciation for heritage and detail, allowed the design to develop in a way that exceeded even our own expectations.
We hope the family will enjoy these spaces for many years to come - gathering, unwinding and creating countless new memories within a home that once again feels special, personal and full of life.
About Khaya Studio
Kate Fryer is a qualified interior designer with over 15 years of experience creating elegant, timeless interiors across Bristol, Bath and the wider Somerset region. Kate brings a professional yet personal approach to every project. Through her studio, Khaya Studio, Kate specialises in the transformation of period and heritage properties, blending classic architecture with contemporary comfort. Her work is defined by warmth, balance, and a deep respect for craftsmanship - creating homes that feel both sophisticated and lived in. Khaya Studio offers a range of tailored services, from colour consultancy to full turnkey renovation and project management. Every detail is carefully handled, ensuring a seamless process and a truly enjoyable design experience for each client.
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During 2025, Katharine Pooley's in-house design team partnered with The Childhood Trust on multiple occasions to reimagine a children’s bedroom in a truly transformative way. This project is part of my ongoing commitment to The Childhood Trust’s Transforming Spaces programme, marking my eighth year as an ambassador for the charity.
An estimated 730,000 children - or about 35% of all children in London - are living in poverty. Many lack access to basic necessities including food, clothing and a safe place to rest in a supportive environment. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis only worsens this reality, leaving more children vulnerable and at risk. The Childhood Trust works tirelessly to tackle these challenges, and Transforming Spaces is its flagship community outreach initiative. Each week, the charity redesigns and refurbishes bedrooms for children experiencing the impacts of poverty. Its mission is clear: to provide children with safe, nurturing environments where they can sleep, learn, play and thrive.
Throughout 2025 my team and I have worked on a variety of projects, helping a total of 22 children. By creating safe, inspiring spaces, the programme helps break the cycle of inequity and supports children’s mental, emotional and educational development. The impact goes far beyond interior décor - these transformations lay the groundwork for healthier and happier futures.
The Childhood Trust is a cause that holds deep personal significance for me and resonates with everyone at my studio. Each year we are proud to support its life-changing mission by reimagining spaces for children who need them most. We approach every room with the same care and creativity we bring to all our work but with an even greater sense of purpose. Creating a space where a child feels safe, comfortable, and inspired to learn and dream isn’t just important - it’s absolutely essential. Every child deserves that sanctuary and it’s a privilege to be part of making that a reality.
For the Hackney bedroom makeover we planned a comprehensive transformation to create a space for a three-year-old girl. The scope of work included wall treatments, new window dressings, rugs, furniture, artwork, storage, soft furnishings and lighting.
As I reflect on our work with The Childhood Trust, I am reminded of the profound impact that thoughtfulness and empathy can have on a child’s life. I am incredibly proud of my team for their dedication, creativity and care in making these transformations possible.
It is a privilege to contribute to a programme that not only beautifies spaces but also nurtures hope and confidence for children who need it most. We look forward to continuing this journey, creating more spaces where children can truly flourish in 2026.
About Katharine Pooley London
Recently named ‘British Interior Designer of the Decade’, ‘International Designer of the Year in Asia’ and ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ Katharine Pooley has in a short space of time become one of Europe's leading designers. Her portfolio encompasses a multitude of interior styles and architectural genres and her design ethos is one of luxurious eclecticism. No two projects are ever alike, but they are universally beautiful and timeless.
When Kimble Roden Architect's clients purchased a large, detached Arts and Crafts property in Cheshire, they saw promise beneath years of fragmented additions and an inefficient internal plan. They wanted a forever home - one rooted in the character of the original house but fully reconfigured for contemporary family life.
At the heart of the transformation was a complete rethinking of spatial flow. We opened up the ground floor to create a generous open-plan kitchen and living area, supported by defined sitting and play spaces and a highly functional utility zone. Upstairs, four double bedrooms - each with ensuite - were carefully arranged across the first and second floors, while the previously under-used loft now offers long views across the rear garden and rolling Cheshire landscape.
A bespoke oak and black metal staircase provides a dramatic focal point and connects all levels, anchoring a newly opened entrance hall and reinforcing a clear spatial hierarchy throughout the home.
Architecturally, the design balances respect for heritage with contemporary clarity. A two-storey side extension reflects the language of the original Arts and Crafts façade at the front, while a more contemporary expression to the rear maximises glazed connections with the outdoors. Seamless access to garden play spaces and a garden gym enhances everyday living.
Inside, a warm palette of neutrals, oak and black joinery, alongside refined dark bronze details, creates a harmonious flow of materials. Each space is tailored to its function, resulting in a home that feels both purposeful and beautifully composed.
This whole-house transformation exemplifies Kimble Roden’s approach: thoughtful planning, architectural cohesion and interiors that balance elegance with practicality.
About Kimble Roden Architects & Designers
Kimble Roden’s practice mission is to create outstanding architecture and interior projects tailored to meet the needs of our clients. We will bring an outstanding level of creativity and technical brilliance to residential projects. Whether you are building a new home, renovating, extending or have an interior design project we can offer a turnkey solution for your project and bring a level of professionalism that sets the standards in client care. We will provide you with complete peace of mind and add value to your home.
Sometimes, the most transformative design stories unfold not in grand drawing rooms or sprawling extensions, but in the humble, hardworking spaces of a home. The Colchester Avenue Utility project is a perfect example - a reminder that every corner of a house deserves beauty, care, and thoughtful consideration.
When the clients first approached Khaya Studio, their utility room had become a damp, neglected space that no one enjoyed spending time in. As is often the case, it had evolved organically over time, serving multiple functions without ever being properly designed for them. The result was a room that worked hard, but not well - lacking storage, light, and any sense of warmth or joy.
Our goal was simple: to restore order, functionality, and charm. But beneath that, it was also about changing the way this space made the family feel. We began by addressing the practical issues first - ensuring the room was dry, well-ventilated, and properly finished. The walls were boarded to combat damp, and new flooring was laid to provide a clean, solid base for the design to follow.
Next came the cabinetry - the cornerstone of any utility room. We commissioned bespoke joinery to house the washing machine and dryer, concealing the appliances within beautifully detailed cabinetry that felt integrated and intentional. A deep ceramic sink and elegant tap added a touch of refinement, while open shelving provided a place for baskets, jars, and laundry essentials. Every inch was designed to make daily routines feel calmer and more enjoyable.
Once the structure was right, the real transformation came through colour. The cabinetry was finished in a bright, uplifting coral, and the walls painted a soft, warm pink - a combination that instantly shifted the mood of the room. What had once been a gloomy, utilitarian space became light-filled, cheerful, and full of personality.
Colour is one of the most powerful tools we have as designers, capable of changing how we feel in a space almost instantly. In this case, the palette introduced optimism - a sense of energy and warmth that reflected the family’s personality and made the room a place to enjoy rather than endure.
The Colchester Avenue Utility project may be small in scale, but it represents something much larger: the belief that every space in a home should contribute to a sense of wellbeing. When designed with intention, even the most functional rooms can spark joy and add daily ease to family life.
In every project I take on - whether it’s a full-scale renovation or the redesign of a single space - I look for ways to combine practicality with beauty. The result is a home that not only looks wonderful but also feels good to live in.
One of the greatest compliments came from the client after completion, when she told me that the utility room had become her “happy place” - a small but meaningful transformation that made household tasks feel lighter and more enjoyable.
That, for me, is the essence of good design: creating spaces that improve the rhythm of everyday life, making even the simplest moments feel beautiful.
Styled Home Design has completed the full renovation of a two-bedroom Victorian terraced home in Cambridgeshire, delivering a refined, high-specification interior tailored to the evolving needs of its owners. Appointed to provide a full interior design service alongside project coordination, the studio led the project from initial concept through to completion, ensuring a cohesive design vision and a seamless client experience.
The property had remained largely untouched for over 16 years and required substantial renovation to bring it in line with contemporary standards of comfort, functionality, and craftsmanship. The clients, who were downsizing from a five-bedroom family home, sought a space that felt calm, purposeful, and personal, without sacrificing quality or character.
The clients were time-poor, well-travelled, and design-aware, with an established collection of furniture, artwork, and objects accumulated over many years. Rather than starting from a blank canvas, the brief focused on thoughtfully integrating these existing pieces into a cohesive new interior scheme.
Downsizing was a key consideration, with an emphasis on intelligent spatial planning, generous storage, and bespoke solutions that would allow the home to function efficiently without feeling constrained. The clients also wanted the property to reflect their eclectic tastes, favouring a layered aesthetic over a singular, prescriptive design style.
Styled Home Design adopted a multi-schemed approach, drawing influence from Scandi, mid-century, traditional, and Japandi design principles. This carefully curated blend allowed each space to feel distinctive while maintaining a consistent visual language throughout the home.
Natural materials, soft neutral palettes, and warm timber tones were used to create a calm and balanced foundation. Against this backdrop, more characterful furniture and artwork could be introduced without overwhelming the interiors. The design approach prioritised longevity and restraint, ensuring the home felt considered rather than trend-led.
“Downsizing doesn’t mean compromising. This project was about refining how the clients live and ensuring every element of the home earned its place.” - Natasha King Founder & Principal Designer, Styled Home Design
Given the reduced footprint of the property, bespoke joinery became a cornerstone of the design. Custom cabinetry and storage solutions were designed for multiple areas of the home, maximising functionality while maintaining a clean, uncluttered aesthetic.
Each joinery element was carefully detailed to complement the proportions of the Victorian architecture, bridging the gap between period character and contemporary living. By integrating storage seamlessly into the fabric of the home, the interiors retain a sense of openness and clarity despite their compact scale.
While the interior was fully reimagined, the renovation remained sensitive to the property’s original character. All existing windows were replaced with high-quality UPVC sash windows, selected to replicate the appearance and proportions of traditional Victorian sashes while significantly improving thermal performance and durability.
This approach ensured the external identity of the terrace was preserved, aligning with the architectural language of the street, while delivering modern standards of comfort and efficiency for the occupants.
In addition to interior design, Styled Home Design provided full project coordination, acting as the primary point of contact throughout the renovation. This proved particularly valuable for the clients, who required a trusted professional to manage design development, technical detailing, and on-site coordination on their behalf.
The studio’s hands-on involvement ensured clarity across all stages of the project, from specification and procurement through to installation, resulting in a smooth and controlled delivery process.
The completed home is a considered response to both the clients’ lifestyle and the architectural context of the property. Layered, functional, and quietly elegant, the interiors successfully balance bespoke craftsmanship with personal expression.
This project demonstrates Styled Home Design’s approach to full-service residential interiors, thoughtful design, meticulous detailing, and a commitment to creating homes that are not only visually refined, but deeply practical and enduring.
“This project was about understanding what the clients truly needed from their home at this stage of their lives. By focusing on bespoke solutions, thoughtful layering, and restraint, we were able to create a space that feels calm, personal, and completely suited to them.” - Natasha King, Founder & Principal Designer, Styled Home Design
About Styled Home Design
Styled Home Design is a Cambridge-based interior design studio specialising in luxury residential renovations and bespoke commercial interiors. We work with private homeowners, developers, and businesses who want beautifully considered spaces without the stress of managing the process themselves. Our approach is collaborative, design-led, and detail-driven, balancing timeless aesthetics with practical, liveable solutions. From concept development and spatial planning through to detailed specifications, procurement, and project management, we oversee every stage to ensure clarity, quality, and confidence. Each project is tailored to the client, resulting in refined interiors that feel personal, functional, and enduring.
The Roath Park House project presented a wonderful opportunity to explore the intersection of heritage and modern living - a design philosophy at the heart of everything we do at Khaya Studio. This distinguished period home, with its elegant proportions and recent extension, offered the perfect canvas for a sensitive transformation. Our clients approached us seeking a home that felt cohesive, warm, and deeply personal - one that would embrace contemporary functionality without compromising the property’s original spirit.
As with many homes of this era, Roath Park House possessed a natural grandeur - high ceilings, generous windows, and beautiful architectural detailing - but also certain constraints that reflected a more formal way of living. The elongated layout created a sense of distance between spaces, leaving the home feeling disjointed and slightly austere. Our brief was to soften this sense of formality, creating flow and balance while ensuring that each room retained its unique identity.
We began by defining a clear sense of arrival. The long entrance hallway, once a simple passageway, was reimagined as a welcoming transitional space. A striking piece of artwork now anchors the view upon entry, complemented by a carefully styled sideboard that adds warmth and personality. These elements not only bring visual interest but also introduce a feeling of calm - setting the tone for the rest of the home.
Further into the property, we turned our attention to spaces that had been overlooked or underused. The “back room,” once little more than a utility area, was transformed into a multi-functional gym and laundry space - a design solution that elegantly balances practicality with beauty. We introduced custom joinery to conceal appliances and equipment, paired with tactile materials and a soothing palette that elevates the room far beyond its utilitarian purpose. The result is a space that feels purposeful and uplifting, proving that functionality and design integrity can coexist seamlessly.
The home’s rear garden - previously a cold, paved expanse - also underwent a complete transformation. Inspired by the clients’ love of entertaining, we designed a lush, green oasis perfect for alfresco dining and intimate gatherings. Layered planting, warm lighting, and natural materials now create a space that feels like an extension of the interior - a private sanctuary that encourages connection and rest.
Every element of the Roath Park House redesign was guided by a deep respect for the property’s 1920s origins. Throughout, we curated a selection of furnishings, art, and objects that bridge the decades - each piece chosen to feel authentic and enduring.
A light, refined palette of soft neutrals and warm woods provides the backdrop for moments of quiet drama - a sculptural lamp, a bold abstract painting, a statement armchair. Furniture was chosen for its graceful proportions, ensuring that each room feels airy and balanced, with enough negative space for the architecture to breathe.
The overall effect is one of quiet confidence: an interior that feels layered and lived-in, yet considered and cohesive.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this project was witnessing how the clients reconnected with their home. What was once a house of formality is now a place of comfort and expression - a home that reflects the rhythm of modern family life while celebrating the beauty of its past.
At Khaya Studio, we believe good design should feel effortless. It should tell the story of the people who live within the space, and it should evolve naturally over time. Projects like Roath Park House remind us that great design is not about reinvention - it’s about reinterpretation, finding beauty in the dialogue between old and new.
Working on period homes requires patience, adaptability, and a deep respect for craftsmanship. There’s a certain poetry in working within constraints - finding creative solutions that honour what’s already there. Whether through the subtle detailing of a cornice or the placement of a contemporary artwork against a time-worn wall, each decision at Roath Park House was made with the aim of balance - where heritage and modernity coexist in harmony.
Codi Rodrigues, Founder of The Code Design Studio, has given her insights into the industry.
Interior design is such an incredible expression of life, love, and joy. I’ve always (as an insufferable rule breaker) loved that there literally are no rules. That design is perspective. That it is often the very soul of both designer and Client combined to create something totally unique and unlike any other. For as long as I can remember, I’ve enjoyed and dabbled in interior design, so taking the leap into the industry was honestly the easiest leap.
It’s so cool having a different set of eyes for each project/client. I notice things on one project that don't notice on the one prior. No two days are ever the same, it’s fast paced and there’s an element of uncertainty that makes things really fun. My creativity is always being tested, and I’m constantly surprising myself.
The Basingfield project has been shortlisted for the 2026 Design et Al International Design Awards which I’m very proud of. This project was so fun for me because the Client just let me run wild. I had no clear brief, just a good idea for who she was as a person, and the design process just flowed. It was inexplicably beautiful, and it’s paid off being internationally recognised.
I love working on projects where creativity isn’t limited. There’s nothing better than a client placing their full trust in you to deliver. I work really hard to make sure that my designs are uniquely beautiful with lots of contrast in colour, pattern, texture and style. Mixing eras and styles is one of my favourite things to do to create real visual interest.
I’d say the most challenging aspect is working with unrealistic budget and timeline expectations. Being asked to deliver a £40k room on a £10k budget and to have it done yesterday happens too often, and it’s really difficult having those confronting conversations. Delays are also a completely inevitable factor in design and can strain the relationship with the client.
It’s going to take a while to build up a family of tradespeople you can count on to deliver quality projects for your business. Unfortunately, you’ll meet some along the way who do you wrong, but you keep going and you will get there. Resilience, a keen eye and work ethic are key.
Failure and knock backs happen as often as successes when you’re learning. Ensure that with each failure you learn a valuable lesson and apply it to your future projects so that you don’t make the same mistake twice. Be yourself, take note of the trends and what’s going on around you in the industry, but ultimately be yourself. Design from within so that you stand out in the monochrome world we live in.
With sustainability being an ever-growing market, new eco-friendly products are being introduced all the time that are both revolutionary and refreshingly beautiful. It’s fun to see what the industry is capable of in such an evolutionary time. We’re also really blending spaces to accommodate the ‘work from home’ movement and I don’t see that dying down.
It’s an honour to be recognised by The Society of British & International Interior Design. It’s an honour to be asked to feature in this editorial. Little me may not have believed this would all come to fruition, she’d be proud.
About The Code Design Studio
At The Code Design Studio, we're driven by a passion for creating spaces that tell stories and evoke emotion. Our design philosophy centres on balance between beauty and function, modernity and timelessness, creativity and comfort. We believe that great design doesn't just transform a space, it enhances the way people live within it. With a keen eye for detail and a love of texture, colour and form, we approach every project as a collaboration. The goal is to craft interiors that reflect each client's unique identity and lifestyle. Over the years, we've developed a signature style that is guided by authenticity, and the belief that thoughtful design can truly make everyday life more inspiring. In a monochrome world, it's imperative to push the boundaries and be unique. That means something different to each of our clients, and it's a gift to be able to decipher that and deliver something wonderful.
Charlotte Säve, Founder of Charlotte Säve Design Studio, has given her insights into the industry.
I’m a London-based interior designer specialising in high-end residential projects. Before founding my studio, I built a successful career in beauty marketing, working for global brands including L’Oréal, Estée Lauder and Walgreens Boots Alliance.
I completed my formal training at the Inchbald School of Design in London, graduating with a BA (Hons) in Architectural Interior Design. Originally from Sweden, I bring a distinctly international perspective to my work shaped by a lifetime living in various places including Sweden, Belgium, USA, France and now the UK. For me, the most successful spaces are those that tell a story. I approach each home not as a blank canvas but as an unfolding narrative that reflects the identify, lifestyle and aspirations of the people who inhabit it creating spaces with a unique identity.
I’ve always been drawn to interiors, from wallpapering my doll’s house as a child to finding ways to make every space I lived in feel like home. Having moved frequently throughout my life, I learned early on how powerfully our surroundings shape our comfort, identity and well-being and I became fascinated by the idea of creating environments that feel deeply personal.
After a long and fulfilling career in the beauty industry, I reached a natural crossroads as I hit 40 and realised it was the right moment to turn a lifelong passion into a profession. Retraining in interior design allowed me to bring together my creativity, problem-solving skills and my passion for understanding how people experience spaces, and it has been the most rewarding decision I’ve made.
I love getting to know my clients and understanding how they truly live. In my previous career, I loved working on beauty brands that anticipated what customers needed before they realised it themselves and that is something that translates directly into my work now.
I’m passionate about creating homes that feel genuinely personal and lived-in where beauty and functionality sit comfortably together. There is something incredibly rewarding about transforming a space so that it feels as though it has always belonged to the people who live there, somewhere that brings ease, comfort and joy the moment they walk through the door.
It must be finishing the large summer house project on Nantucket, MA (USA) I have been working on for 2 years. Having the opportunity to work on such a significant and prestigious property so early in my career felt like a real milestone. The most rewarding part has been the client’s response, they were thrilled with the outcome and the project has already led to a second home with the same client. It was a real ‘pinch-me’ moment and has given me both confidence and momentum to move forward.
My favourite projects are those rooted in a strong sense of place, whether they are period properties or new builds within a traditional landscape. Having moved around so much in my life, I’m really drawn to houses that already have a story or a clear identity. I love the challenge of honouring that character while shaping it for modern living, creating spaces that feel timeless and ready for their next chapter.
I think one the challenges is balancing the creative side of design with the practical realities of a project. There are a lot of moving parts and keeping timelines, budgets and people aligned, especially when working across not just different countries but continents can be complex. The organisational and communication skills I developed in my previous career have been incredibly helpful, but every project still poses a new challenge and allows me to learn something new.
I always expected the client side to be important but perhaps I didn’t quite appreciate just how much of the work comes down to listening and translating. Often clients can’t fully articulate what they want, and part of the job is gently interpreting what they mean beneath the words. I’ve also learned that many clients understandably romanticise how they imagine life in their new home so it’s my role to translate that vision into something that will truly support how they live day-to-day without them ever feeling like they’re compromising.
Design also involves a surprise amount of problem solving and gentle coordination which has taught me the importance of patience and clear communication. These skills have grown with experience and every project is an opportunity to further develop.
Stay curious and look beyond your screen. Pinterest or Instagram are great, but they are not the whole world. Inspiration shows up in the most unexpected places; a building you walk past every day, a pattern in a book even something you notice while out for a run. One of my ideas once came from how my childhood dolls’ house plugged in, proof that nothing is too small or too random to inspire. Keep your eyes open because design is everywhere if you let yourself notice it.
I think clients are moving away from wanting ‘trendy’ homes and towards a desire for their homes to feel authentic and enduring. Sustainability is becoming a genuine expectation rather than an option. And while technology will continue to evolve very quickly, the opportunity lies in using it as a tool to support creativity and communication rather than replacing them.
Being SBID accredited represents a commitment to high standards, continued learning and accountability within the industry.It’s an honour to be part of a wider community of designers that supports, elevates and celebrates the profession.
About Charlotte Säve Design Studio
Charlotte Säve is a London-based interior designer with a focus on creating spaces that feel both timeless and deeply personal. Her work is guided by a belief that the most successful interiors tell a story through light, texture and proportion. Drawing on Scandinavian principles of simplicity and restraint, she combines natural materials with crafted detail to create environments that are calm, expressive and enduring. Each project begins with an understanding of how people live and connect, resulting in spaces that balance beauty with purpose and evoke an effortless sense of harmony and authenticity.
RAO INTERIORS is proud to announce the official launch of RAO HOME on 1st December, marking a significant new chapter as the studio expands into a curated homeware brand rooted in culture, craftsmanship, and contemporary design.
Founded by interior designer Suhasini Rao Jones and Welsh creative Samuel Rao Jones, RAO HOME brings together two perspectives shaped by different worlds, Indian-Irish heritage and Welsh creativity. This rich duality forms the foundation of a brand that honours tradition while reimagining it for modern living.
RAO INTERIORS has long been recognised for its refined approach to interior architecture: spaces defined by balance, quiet luxury, and a deep respect for heritage. RAO HOME represents a natural evolution of this philosophy.
The brand’s first product line, “In The Beginning” - Jaipur Collection, introduces a series of handcrafted rugs designed in house and handmade in India by skilled artisans using time honoured craftsmanship passed down through generations. Rooted in narrative and artistry, the collection reflects RAO HOME’s commitment to authenticity and cultural storytelling: understated palettes, tactile textures, and subtle geometry brought to life through traditional Indian weaving techniques.
Each piece is a collaboration between design and heritage, a visual conversation between Suhasini’s Indian roots and the modern sensibility that shapes much of Samuel’s Welsh creative influence.
Launching initially as a digital first homeware brand, RAO HOME aims to make sustainable, thoughtful, and design led craftsmanship accessible to a wider audience. Every product carries the brand’s core values: authenticity, integrity, sustainability, and passion.
In the founders’ words: “RAO HOME has been built from a place of love, passion, identity, and connection. ‘In The Beginning’ represents our starting point: an introduction to the heritage crafts and design principles that will define our journey. This launch marks the beginning of a brand shaped by culture, intention, and modern craftsmanship.”
The “In The Beginning” - Jaipur Collection will be unveiled online on 1st December, accompanied by a digital campaign revealing the artistry and story behind the pieces.
RAO HOME invites design lovers, collaborators, and customers to celebrate the start of a brand that blends cultural heritage, considered design, and modern craftsmanship for the contemporary home.
About RAO INTERIORS
RAO INTERIORS is a high end interior design studio dedicated to transforming houses into beautifully curated homes. With a focus on elegance, functionality, and timeless design, we work closely with clients to craft interiors that reflect their individuality. We believe that every space should feel both inspiring and livable. We combine creative vision with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every element comes together in perfect harmony. At RAO INTERIORS, we pride ourselves on sourcing high-quality materials and collaborating with trusted artisans and suppliers to deliver results that are both beautiful and enduring. We understand that interiors shape how people live. That’s why we take the time to listen and bring each client’s vision to life with creativity, precision, and warmth.
Bramble Cottage is a rare gem - a home imbued with centuries of history and quiet charm. When Khaya Studio was first invited to reimagine the interiors, I knew it would be a project that required equal parts sensitivity and creativity. My clients, a family with a deep affection for the property and its heritage, wanted to modernise their home in a way that respected its timeless character while enhancing its comfort and functionality for contemporary living.
The brief centred on expansion and cohesion: to introduce a substantial new extension that would include a kitchen, dining area, and snug - spaces that would become the heart of the home - while ensuring a seamless connection between the original structure and the new addition. My role as interior designer was to guide that transformation with a light yet confident touch, preserving the home’s integrity while creating rooms that feel welcoming, refined, and effortlessly liveable.
The challenge in working with historic properties lies in achieving balance. Any addition must complement, not compete with, the architecture that came before it. At Bramble Cottage, we approached this by using materials and detailing that honoured the home’s narrative.
One of the most rewarding design moments was the introduction of bespoke wall panelling that flows gracefully from the original hallway into the new extension. This single gesture created a visual and emotional bridge - allowing the house to unfold naturally, as if it had always been that way. The panelling not only anchors the interiors but also celebrates the craftsmanship and artistry that underpin the property’s history.
In every decision, we sought authenticity. Finishes were carefully selected to age beautifully, from softly honed stone and warm timber to handcrafted metalwork and brass accents. The palette remained neutral and calming, allowing the architecture and light to take centre stage.
At the core of this project was a desire to create a home that nurtures togetherness. The kitchen and dining space - once separated by awkward circulation - are now part of a generous open-plan area designed for both entertaining and everyday rituals. The snug, with its deep upholstery and layered textures, offers a comforting retreat that feels timeless yet tailored to modern life.
One of the most transformative spaces, however, was the former sitting room, which we reimagined as a tranquil library. This room became a sanctuary - a space for quiet reflection, cherished reading, and restorative calm. Soft lighting, natural materials, and tactile fabrics combined to create an atmosphere that encourages stillness and serenity.
What made Bramble Cottage so special was the collaboration between designer and client. Through open conversation, we uncovered the family’s love for travel, art, and craftsmanship - influences that subtly informed the design language throughout. Every piece, from bespoke cabinetry to carefully sourced lighting, was chosen to tell part of their story.
This was not about following trends, but about creating an interior that will endure. My design philosophy has always been to create spaces that feel timeless - where every element serves a purpose and where comfort and elegance coexist harmoniously.
Perhaps the greatest measure of success in any project is how it makes the client feel.
“Kate helped us with the interior design of our house following extensive building work. It was an absolute pleasure working with her. Her contributions took our house to the next level and gave many rooms the ‘wow factor’. We particularly appreciated Kate’s flexible way of working, adapting what she brings to the client’s needs. She can take on the full design of a room or take a more advisory role when the client prefers to take the lead. At all points, she really took on board our needs and preferences and came up with a proposition that truly reflected what we wanted. We very much hope to continue to work with Kate in the future and could not recommend her enough.” - Bramble Cottage Client
Projects like Bramble Cottage remind me why I love what I do. The goal is never to impose, but to enhance - to bring out the best in a building while creating spaces that allow people to live well. When design respects both history and humanity, it creates something truly lasting.
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