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.
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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.
Nestled within the storied grounds of an ancient castle, Preserve 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 Preserve 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 Preserve 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.” - Laura Rovegno, Client
Projects like Preserve 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.
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.
Julia Brown, Founder of Room By Julia Brown, has given her insights into the industry.
I have worked in the residential design industry for over 20 years, after studying interior design for four years and beginning a career as a CAD draftsman to gain technical experience. I then spent a year in Singapore working with a luxury residential design team and knew instantly that this was the field I wished to remain in. Returning to England commenced a 20-year career in the high-end residential design industry and which is now reflected in Room’s overall ethos.
Creativity comes natural to me. Whether that is in curating your own wardrobe, the space you live in or even designing your lifestyle to suit your own requirements, creativity is at the forefront of everything we do. Studying interior / architecture for four years set me on a path to be an architect but I soon changed direction into interiors, whilst my husband progressed on to become an architect. We now complement each other perfectly and each have our different strengths in each of our fields.
The initial design stage for me is always the most exciting. Taking the brief and floorplan and coming up with an idea that perhaps hasn’t even been considered gives me a rush of adrenaline and I always can’t wait to share it with my clients. Then receiving feedback like “Yes! That’s exactly what we want” is pure joy and complete job satisfaction. A lot of hard work goes into bringing the designs to fruition, but nothing will dim that initial creativity process.
Even though I’ve been in the industry for over 20 years, Room is relatively new in the making, and I’ve really enjoyed creating it and nurturing its roots. Developing the brand, logo, tone of voice and tailoring the services we offer has been so rewarding in its process. Having people reach out and support me in these early stages is both humbling and encouraging and I am excited for where these first projects will take me.
Residential work is deeply personal. You’re invited into someone’s home, trusted with their vision, and part of their life for months at a time. Those relationships matter, and often, they become long-term connections and friendships.
I like to obsess over every little detail in the planning stages. Making things look “pretty” is one thing but ensuring the functionality works is also vital. It can be frustrating when contractors misinterpret a detail so regular site visits and checks are paramount to keep an eye on progress. Good communication with all involved is also crucial to bringing a project to completion.
To not take things too personally. Whilst the process is in fact very personal and friendships are often formed during a project, it can be challenging to service and support your clients’ emotions too throughout the process. A guiding hand and reminder of what the goal is can be helpful when they become overwhelmed by their overall budget or the main contractor running behind. Everyone is often working hard to achieve all that is required of them so maintaining a professional obligation whilst still the supporting emotional needs of all involved is a learned skill.
To be yourself, honest and hard working. Most people can see right through you if you are trying to convince them you are something that you are not. If you don’t know the answer, say so, but say you’re going to find out for them. And then standby that promise by putting the work in and returning with evidence. Good communication with your client and your trades is essential.
So many freelance designers are working from home rather than having large fancy expensive studios these days. This is of benefit to your clients as there are no unnecessary overheads and in fact, freelance designers can be entirely focused on the project in hand rather than running a showroom. It’s also common for designers to collaborate rather than compete against each other.
Receiving the SBID Accreditation was important for me to share with my clients. After all, they are the ones who are putting their faith in me and my services. The accreditation proves not only previous qualifications and applied experience but also the commitment to continued professional development which can only reinforce a designers capability.
About Room by Julia Brown
Room by Julia Brown is a high-end interior design studio that creates beautifully considered homes. Led by experienced interior designer and high-end cabinetry expert, Julia Brown, we bring together creative vision, technical precision, and a trusted network of skilled makers to design spaces that are both practical and deeply personal. Great design isn’t just about how something looks. It’s how well a space works for the way you live, and how it flows with the rest of your home. We help our clients make confident decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and create rooms that reflect who they are and how they actually live, with beautifully crafted cabinetry that’s built to last. From the flow of your floor plan to the feeling you want when you walk through the door, every detail is designed with intention, built around your lifestyle, not just the room plan.
Autumn is here again and the daylight is softening across London as the city dons its beautifully crisp hues. In Katharine Pooley's Studio the arrival of this season sparks a renewed focus on cosy textures and warmth in all its forms. This time of year also evokes reflection: on journeys taken, on the spaces we inhabit and on the small, considered gestures that transform a house into a home.
The Walton Street Boutique is welcoming the season with a subtle in-store transformation and the launch of our Autumnal Edit. My window display captures the deep russets of fallen leaves and the muted glow of early dusk, spotlighting a selection of exquisite new treasures that have just landed.
In celebration of 'Wool Month' and British craft, we have highlighted some beautiful soft furnishings (and sheep!) to honour this wonderfully sustainable material and the artisans who bring a sense of heritage to every piece.
While the season may be slowing down, our pace certainly isn’t. This autumn, my team is travelling across the US, Middle East, and Caribbean, with highlights including unveiling The Study at the Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Dallas. A sophisticated palette of deep blues and warm ochres defines this elegant space, where classical references meet modern craftsmanship. I can't wait to share more next month.
Be sure to pop into our Walton Street store and discover a carefully curated collection of delights from bespoke, one-of-a-kind cushions to luxurious living room accessories - each has been handpicked for our discerning clientele both locally and online. As always, my hope is that this season offers you moments of inspiration, comfort and delight. May you find pleasure in slowing down and observing the beauty in your surroundings.
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.
The client’s brief was to create a tropical villa in Bali with Mexican influences. The exterior is brutal, with a natural stone finish that feels raw and unfinished. The interior is elegant, with a soft, understated colour palette that is both eye-catching and relaxing. The Villa was supposed to have a spacious sofa group where guests can relax. It also has a big swimming pool outside surrounded by a special seating area with an amazing рhoto zone where guests can enjoy the view and chill.
DM Projects were inspired by the Merzouga Desert in Morocco. With its endless, sun-scorched dunes and frozen air. The desert gives you a feeling of peace and quiet, as if it hides you from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A world of dunes and sun, rocky placers and scorched earth. I really wanted to recreate these feelings in the project, and when the proposal came to create a villa in a tropical Mexican style, I felt this was exactly what I needed.
I think this is a task in which it was necessary to soften the brutal exterior with a natural raw stone finish with an elegant, slightly simple, but at the same time breathtaking interior. For this, my team and I chose the ivory colour walls with a rough stone floor. The walls are plastered and have the raw texture to convey the mood of the desert.
I would like to highlight two main achievements of this project. The first one is the significant expansion of the visual area of the living room thanks to the recessed sofa group. This has created a spacious area from a relatively small room. When you sit on the sofa, the ceiling seems 5 metres high, which makes the space feel more open and airier.
The second achievement is the way we have made the room look cool and inviting. We have created a space where you want to relax and hide from the heat. Additionally, the interior design of the room continues the exterior and surrounding landscape of the villa, creating a harmonious and unified atmosphere.
About DM Projects
At DM Interior Design, our philosophy revolves around the belief that every space has the potential to inspire, uplift, and enhance everyday life. We approach each project with a deep commitment to balancing beauty and functionality, creating environments that are both aesthetically striking and practically suited to the needs of those who inhabit them. Our designs are rooted in timeless elegance, yet we remain at the forefront of innovation, blending classic principles with modern sensibilities. We believe that great design should not only be visually appealing but also sustainable, fostering a connection with nature and promoting well-being through the use of eco-friendly materials and practices.
Natalia Ratajczak, Founder & Creative Director of WHY NOT Design, has given her insights into the industry.
After graduating from KLC School of Design, I dived into the London design scene working on high-end residential and commercial spaces — the kind where everything looks effortless, but only after hundreds of caffeine-fuelled hours behind the scenes. Eventually, I realised I wanted to create something less “polite” and more alive. So, I launched WHY NOT Design — a studio built on the belief that safe is boring and bold means yours. We design marketing suites, show flats and workplaces that don’t just look good — they perform.
Because I’ve never been able to walk into a room without mentally redesigning it. Design has always been my language — a mix of problem-solving, storytelling, and a bit of rebellion. I wanted a career where I could blend creativity with impact; not just pick cushions, but build experiences that make people feel something. Interior design lets me turn ideas into atmosphere — and that’s addictive.
The magic moment when a concept sketch becomes a space people actually inhabit. I love the process — the mess, the material samples, the midnight ideas that suddenly make everything click. Every project is a balancing act between imagination and reality, and I secretly enjoy the chaos. Also, that client smile when they walk in and say, “This feels like us.” Can’t beat that.
Without a doubt — launching WHY NOT Design. Watching the brand grow from a scribble in my notebook to a real studio with real clients has been wild. Getting SBID Accredited in our first year was the cherry on top — a reminder that being bold doesn’t mean being reckless. You can colour outside the lines and still do it properly.
Marketing suites, show flats and workplaces — anything that blends creativity with commercial purpose. I love designing spaces that sell a story. They have to grab attention, make an impression, and whisper, “You belong here.” Those projects let me push creativity while still driving results, which is basically the WHY NOT sweet spot.
Keeping the vision intact while reality throws curveballs — budgets, deadlines, deliveries, the occasional “we lost your tiles.” Design is 20% creative genius and 80% controlled chaos. The challenge (and the fun) is staying calm while the storm swirls — and still producing something beautiful. It’s equal parts artist, therapist, and crisis manager.
That interior design is a full-contact sport. You’ll need stamina, patience, and a sense of humour. It’s not just fabrics and floorplans — it’s negotiations, logistics, psychology, and a lot of problem-solving. I wish someone had told me that resilience is as valuable as creativity. Oh, and comfortable shoes. Always comfortable shoes.
Don’t water yourself down. The world doesn’t need another copy of what’s already been done. Find your thing — your signature — and lean into it. Not everyone will get it, and that’s fine. The right clients will. Consistency and confidence build a brand faster than any trend ever could.
We’re entering the era of meaningful design. Clients are craving authenticity — spaces with purpose, not perfection. Sustainability is finally more than a buzzword, and storytelling is front and centre. Technology will keep shaping how we visualise and communicate ideas, but personality will be the real differentiator. The future belongs to designers who dare to be different — and mean it.
It’s proof that being bold and being professional aren’t opposites. SBID accreditation gives credibility to creativity — it says, “Yes, we’ve got the vision and the structure.” For me, it’s both recognition and motivation. It keeps me grounded while I keep pushing boundaries. In short — it means we can rebel responsibly.
About WHY NOT Design
WHY NOT Design is a London-based interior design studio creating bold, story-driven spaces that stand out and sell. We specialise in marketing suites, show flats, workplaces, and residential interiors across London and Essex, delivering designs that connect emotionally and commercially. With over nine years of industry experience, we combine creativity with strategic thinking to craft interiors that are original, functional, and memorable. From concept and space planning to 3D visuals, technical packs, and installation, we handle every stage of the process — because we believe safe is boring, and bold means yours. Rebellious by design, unapologetically original.
Kate Fryer, Founder of Khaya Studio, has given her insights into the industry.
I graduated with a BA (Hons) in Interior Design and have since spent over 15 years immersed in the world of interiors - designing and managing projects across residential, retail, and hospitality spaces around the globe. Each project, whether a boutique store in London or a serene family home by the coast, has shaped my approach and deepened my understanding of how thoughtfully designed spaces can enhance the way we live.
Today, my focus lies primarily in residential interior design - and it’s where I feel most at home. I’m passionate about creating interiors with warmth, character, and quiet elegance, spaces that tell the story of the people who live within them. Forming close, collaborative relationships with my clients is at the heart of what I do, ensuring every home we create together feels deeply personal and effortlessly inviting.
I’ve always been fascinated by the way our surroundings influence how we feel and behave. From a young age, I found joy in rearranging spaces and noticing how light, texture, and colour could completely transform a room’s mood. Over time, that fascination evolved into a desire to help others feel truly at home in their environments - creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also deeply nurturing and personal. Interior design felt like the perfect combination of creativity, psychology, and practicality.
For me, the most rewarding part of the process is the transformation - not just of the physical space, but of how my clients feel in their homes. Seeing someone walk into a finished project for the first time and witnessing that moment of joy and connection is incredibly fulfilling. I also love the storytelling aspect of design - uncovering what inspires each client and translating that into a cohesive, timeless interior.
This year has been particularly special as one of my recent projects, The Preserve Cottage, was featured in Good Homes Magazine. It’s always such an honour to see my work recognised in a publication, especially when it celebrates the warmth and individuality that my clients and I created together. Becoming an Associate of the SBID has also been a highlight - it’s a real milestone to be recognised by such a respected professional body.
I have a deep love for period and heritage homes. They hold so much character, and I find great satisfaction in honouring that history while adapting the spaces for modern living. I enjoy creating interiors that feel timeless - layering natural materials, craftsmanship, and thoughtful details so that each project tells a story and stands the test of time.
Balancing creativity with logistics can be one of the biggest challenges. Design is only part of the process - managing timelines, budgets, and the many moving parts of a renovation requires constant communication and flexibility. Unexpected issues will always arise, but experience has taught me that how you handle them makes all the difference.
That interior design is as much about people as it is about spaces. You need to be a good listener, a problem solver, and sometimes even a mediator! The ability to understand and interpret your clients’ needs, often before they can fully articulate them themselves, is such an important skill - and one that develops with experience.
Stay curious and be authentic. Don’t chase trends - instead, take time to understand proportion, light, and materiality, and develop your own design language. The best interiors come from confidence in your vision and a genuine understanding of how people live.
I think we’ll continue to see a shift toward more sustainable and “healthy” interiors - using natural materials, eco-conscious manufacturing, and timeless design that lasts. Clients are increasingly aware of how their homes affect their wellbeing, and designers have a real opportunity to lead the way in creating spaces that feel good for both people and the planet.
It’s a great honour and a mark of professional recognition. The SBID sets a benchmark for excellence in design practice, ethics, and education, and being an Associate member represents a commitment to upholding those standards. For me, it’s also about being part of a wider community that supports and celebrates the profession - something that feels both grounding and inspiring.
Situated along the distinguished Cathedral Road in Cardiff, RAO INTERIORS' latest project reimagines the elegance and grandeur of late Victorian villas for contemporary living. These historic homes, originally conceived as individual residences, captivate us with their architectural charm: lofty ceilings, ornate cornicing, and generous proportions that reflect the craftsmanship of a bygone era. Our vision was to honour this legacy while introducing a modern sensibility that complements, rather than competes with, the original architecture.
At the heart of our design approach lies a commitment to balance. We sought to retain the period character of the property while infusing it with a sense of quiet sophistication through contemporary form and texture. Every element was thoughtfully considered- from the way natural light interacts with the interior, to the tone of materials and the dialogue between old and new. A bespoke luxury rug anchors the space, its intricate weave reflecting the layered narrative of the building itself. Carefully curated contemporary furniture pieces bring rhythm and functionality, enhancing the sense of flow without overwhelming the home’s historic framework.
Our chosen palette leans toward restraint, defined by soft neutrals and muted hues that amplify natural light and celebrate the building’s architectural details. This subtle backdrop allows texture to take centre stage - polished surfaces meet tactile fabrics, and heritage moldings sit effortlessly alongside clean, modern lines. The interplay of these materials creates both tension and harmony, resulting in a space that feels timeless yet distinctly modern.
Lighting, too, plays a pivotal role in the design narrative. We positioned each fixture with intention, highlighting ornate ceiling details and casting gentle shadows that evolve with the light of day. As evening falls, the atmosphere softens, revealing a warmer, more intimate character: proof that design can shape not only a space, but the way it feels to inhabit it.
Ultimately, this project represents our exploration of contrasts: history and modernity, restraint and expression, permanence and transformation. By allowing both the original architecture and contemporary interventions to speak their own language, we achieved a delicate equilibrium. The result is a home that feels both grounded in its Victorian heritage and elevated for contemporary life.
There are projects that challenge you, and then there are projects that quietly affirm everything you stand for. The Shelford Project was one of those for Pinterior Space. Nestled in the heart of Cambridge, it began not with grandeur or excess, but with a shared desire to create a space that felt calm, connected, and deeply personal.
From the beginning, the Shelford Project was a collaboration in the truest sense. The client wasn’t just receptive—they were deeply involved in every decision, bringing a clear vision shaped by Nordic simplicity and Japanese serenity. Their aesthetic instincts aligned beautifully with mine, creating a rhythm of trust and creativity that carried through the entire process.
Together, we explored slightly out-of-the-box materials and subtle design gestures that carried emotional weight. Whether it was a textured wall finish that softened the light or a quiet corner designed for reflection, every choice was made with intention and mutual respect. Their encouragement allowed me to push boundaries gently, crafting a space that felt both grounded and elevated.
This wasn’t just a project—it was a shared journey. And the result is a space that reflects not only my design philosophy, but the client’s clarity, openness, and belief in the power of thoughtful design.
The Shelford Project was never about doing more—it was about doing just enough, beautifully. - A palette of soft neutrals and warm woods created a sense of calm - Thoughtful lighting layered intimacy and clarity - Every material was chosen for its emotional resonance, not just its aesthetic appeal
This was designed as quiet confidence. No drama. No spectacle. Just clarity, care, and cohesion.
About Pinterior Space
We are Interior design practice specialising in residential interiors. We are based in South Cambridgeshire where we work closely with our clients in a collaborative process to produce creatively unique, practical and beautiful spaces.
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