26th January 2026 | IN DESIGN ADVICE | BY SBID Share Tweet Pinterest LinkedIn Victoria Newall, Founder and Interior Designer at Drawn Interior Design, has given her insights into the industry. I’m the founder of Drawn Interior Design, an award-winning boutique studio based in South East London. My background spans over 25 years of design across private homes, film, and global luxury brands including Chanel, Hermès, BBC and Film4. This cross-disciplinary experience brings a strong sense of narrative, nuance and identity — qualities that shape everything I do. I create refined, characterful interiors for discerning homeowners, and work with high-end developers to craft spaces that resonate with buyers and express a clear, compelling vision. With deep roots in brand-led design and an instinctive understanding of how people feel in space, my focus is on creating environments that connect — emotionally, visually and commercially. Drawn Interior Design Drawn Interior Design Why did you want to work in the interior design profession? I always loved art and design, but wanted to apply it in a way that was tangible and useful. Interior design felt like the meeting point between creativity and real life, shaping how people live, move and feel every day. Studying interior design at university gave structure to that instinct, combining aesthetics with function, problem-solving and human experience. That balance continues to motivate my work. Which elements of your profession do you enjoy the most? I enjoy the aspects of design that genuinely improve everyday life; creating spaces that work better, feel more considered, and support how people actually live. When design is thoughtful, it adds value not just visually, but in the way a home is experienced over time. The most rewarding projects are those where the result feels intuitive and purposeful, enhancing both comfort and long-term value without needing to shout. Drawn Interior Design Drawn Interior Design What has been your most memorable career highlight from the past year? The past year has been particularly rewarding as Drawn Interior Design has continued to refine its approach to creating thoughtful, considered interiors. It’s been especially satisfying to see our work genuinely enhance how people live in and experience their homes, tailoring each space to the individual needs and personalities of our clients. What are your favourite types of projects to work on and why? I enjoy projects where there’s an opportunity to create a home that feels thoughtful, functional, and genuinely tailored to the people who live in it. I’m drawn to spaces where design can quietly improve daily life; whether that’s through better flow, more intuitive layouts, or subtle interventions that enhance comfort and enjoyment. I enjoy the challenge of understanding a client’s needs, translating them into a space that feels both practical and personal, and seeing the difference that considered design can make in their everyday experience. Drawn Interior Design Drawn Interior Design What are the most challenging aspects of working in interior design? One of the most challenging aspects of interior design is working creatively within the practical parameters of a project ; budgets, timelines, and existing conditions. Every project presents its own set of constraints, and it’s the designer’s role to find solutions that are both functional and beautiful. Translating complex decisions into something that feels simple and intuitive for the client is part of the challenge, but it’s also what makes the work rewarding: problem-solving within these boundaries often leads to spaces that truly enhance how people live Drawn Interior Design Drawn Interior Design What do you wish you knew before working in the field? Looking back, what I wish I’d known earlier isn’t about design itself, but the broader realities of running a business. After 20+ years of working in design, the challenges I faced were more about managing projects, clients, and operations as a businesswoman than about the creative work itself. If you could give one tip to aspiring designers, what would it be? Develop a point of view and trust it, but remember that design is ultimately about the people who inhabit the space. Balancing creativity with function and lived experience is what defines thoughtful, successful design. Drawn Interior Design How do you see the interior design industry evolving in the year ahead? In the year ahead, I think we’ll see a continued focus on design that genuinely supports the way people live, while also considering its wider impact. Clients are looking for homes that are beautiful, functional, and sustainable, where every decision feels considered and purposeful. The industry is moving towards thoughtful, lasting design rather than short-lived trends, which is exciting for both designers and homeowners alike. What does being an SBID Accredited Interior Designer mean to you? Being an SBID Accredited Interior Designer is meaningful because it recognises both experience and professionalism. It demonstrates adherence to high standards and ethical practice, giving clients confidence that their project is guided by true expertise; something that’s increasingly important in an industry where professionalism can vary widely. Victoria Newall, Founder & Interior Designer at Drawn Interior Design About Drawn Interior Design Drawn Interior Design specialises in refined, distinctive interiors for private homes and new developments. Led by Victoria Newall, with over 25 years’ experience, we create cohesive, practical schemes that enhance function, character and value. For developers, we deliver market-aligned interiors that stand out, supporting faster sales and a stronger brand identity. For homeowners, we shape designs that reflect taste and support daily life. Every project is grounded in thoughtful direction, professional execution and clear communication. We bring efficiency, creativity and a considered approach to each stage, ensuring spaces feel purposeful, refined and individually attuned. Visit Profile If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.