Tell us about your journey into interior design. What inspired you to pursue this career?
I’ve always been a creative person, drawn to things like art, drama, music, and photography back in school. These activities don’t just give me energy they lift my mood in a way nothing else does.
My career started in theatre production, where I worked with directors and set designers to bring their ideas to life on stage. I loved the whole design process, especially hunting down unique furniture and props for the shows. That’s where I learned about different styles and how to mix elements from different eras. As I started bringing that knowledge into my own home, I found myself searching for one-off pieces at markets and charity shops.
Over time, my home turned into a place I had curated with things that I loved, a place where I could unwind and shake off the stress of the week. That experience really showed me how much design can affect your well-being, and it’s something I want to help others experience in their own homes. Everyone deserves a space where they can truly relax and be themselves.
How do you approach a new project? What are the first steps you take when creating a design plan for a client?
That’s a good question, and it’s one that can really trip people up in the early stages. Personally, I like to break things down for the client and figure out what they actually want, and what the room needs to do for them. So, I’ll ask things like, ‘What’s the room going to be used for?’, ‘Is it a cosy spot to curl up with a book?’, ‘Is it more of a practical space?’, ‘Will you be storing things there or working from it?’, and ‘How often do you use it? Will guests be in there or is it just for the homeowners?’.
Getting into these practical details right from the start cuts through all the noise and gives the design some real focus. After that, we can dive into questions like, ‘How do you want this room to make you feel?’, and ‘What’s working in this space, and what’s not?’. I always think it’s key to nail the practical side of things first -you need the room to actually do what it’s supposed to – and then you can add in all the personality and flair. That’s how I think great design comes together.
How does your personal style influence the projects you work on with clients?
Functionality has to come first – that’s non-negotiable – but after that, I love taking a look around the home to see what little treasures we can incorporate into the new design. Your home should really reflect who you are and your life.
I’m all about showing off personal items, like framing a menu from a special dinner or keeping your granddad’s old chair and giving it a fresh look so it can have a new life with you in your home, while still holding on to that family memory.
That’s where design really starts to get interesting and personal – it adds depth and makes the space truly unique to you.
Every designer has a unique signature style that sets them apart. - How would you describe your signature style, and how do you ensure it shines through in each of your projects?
I’m all about colour and creating a cosy vibe, and I tend to gravitate towards the modern English country style.
I love how it’s full of layers and personality, with each room holding pieces that tell a story. Vintage and second-hand pieces are super important to me – I love reusing things, and I think they really add depth to a design.
Pairing them with modern artisan pieces is such a fun combo – it creates this beautiful contrast between the relaxed, vintage feel and a bit of opulence from the newer pieces.
I think that mix is really powerful, and it’s something I always encourage. I always tell clients to take a look at what they already have in their home to see if we can repurpose anything in a new way. Then we figure out what’s missing and start thinking about how to set the right mood with some fresh, modern pieces that fit the vibe.
How do you stay inspired and keep your creativity flowing, especially when working on multiple projects?
I literally take pictures of everything I see – my phone’s never got any storage left! The photos could be anything, from a shape I like to kids' colourful cutlery, or I’ll snap a lot of shots of nature.
I’m really into the details – like the design of a door or the trim on a curtain. It’s all those little things that give me ideas for future projects and how I might be able to use them. I also love looking to the fashion and graphic design worlds for colour inspiration, since they’re usually ahead of the curve.
My two kids are great at reminding me to have fun with things, and I always try to bring that sense of playfulness into my designs. I think adults should play more – we don’t always have to be so serious, and neither do our homes!
It’s great fun to put up that doodle your friend made of you or hang a cowboy hat on the wall from a fancy dress party – keep it light and playful!
Are there any design trends or styles that you’re particularly excited about right now? Perhaps you set your own trends?
I’m totally obsessed with upholstering everything at the moment because I’m all about comfort and creating a cosy vibe. I’ve been spotting some stunning upholstered coffee tables in gorgeous fabrics that just make a room pop – such a wow factor!
I’m also loving oversized or full-width upholstered headboards in bedrooms; they’re super popular right now, and I can see why.
Another trend I’m loving is fabric wall coverings and woven wallpapers –they’re just beautiful. They add such a lovely texture to a room and really elevate the space.
What advice would you give to aspiring interior designers looking to start their own business?
Feel the fear and do it anyway. Tell people what you’re doing and start designing rooms, even if it's for free at first. Just practice and practice.
Things like Canva and Sketchup are good pieces of software to learn and will make your work look more professional.
Network and talk to other designers and trades. People are really friendly and have been on your path themselves.
What advice would you give to aspiring designers about finding their unique style and voice in the industry?
I think it’s so important to be authentically you and not try to be something you’re not. I would encourage you to play with styles you like, but also be aware of what you don’t like and why.
I try to channel things I’m passionate about through my designs and that really helps me find my voice and my style. For example my love of nature and music. That has a big impact on my work, so I would encourage you to think about what else in your life you are passionate about and how that could feed into your creativity.
Top Tips
What are your top three interior design tips for homeowners looking to refresh their spaces?
- What do you already have in your home? How would it look somewhere else or re-upholstered? It's amazing what a reshuffle can do.
- Take a look at your lighting. How much natural light do you have? Could this be improved by adding mirrors? Is the light too harsh over head? Could you do with more mid level lighting, such as table lamps? Could you add some wall sconces for a more ambient feel? Lighting can really make or break a room, so it’s worth spending time to get it right.
- Are you making the best use of your storage and if it’s in view how does it look? I love to use weaved baskets or colourful kids crates to hold things like blankets or toiletries in the bathroom. It works functionally, but also looks good. I’ve got three different services depending on what you need and your budget. If you just want to bounce some ideas around about a room – like its layout, for example – I offer a 60-minute consultancy that can be done remotely.
What services do you offer at Studio Stamp and how do you tailor them to meet clients needs?
If you’re looking to redesign a single room, I offer an E-design package. You’ll get mood boards, floor plans, 2D and 3D renders, plus a shopping list with clickable links, all sent to you digitally. It’s a more affordable option than a full design package, and it gives you the chance to be hands-on with the project while still getting my support from afar.
Lastly, I offer a full design package if you want me to be there every step of the way. I can work alongside contractors, offer advice, and even come to site when needed. When the work is all done, I’ll style and dress the room so it’s all set up and ready for you to enjoy.
What do you envision for the future of Studio Stamp?
I would love for Studio Stamp to be thriving in the residential sector, bringing lots of joy into people’s homes. I also have an ambition to design some of my own products. I’ve painted a few of my own lampshades and mirrors which I love and it would be amazing to sell some in the future. I may even design my own fabric or wallpaper!
Are there any exciting upcoming projects or plans?
My next project is an entrance hallway and a downstairs toilet. Hallways are often overlooked, but they’re so important because they connect the whole house and really set the tone as soon as you walk in. It’s the first and last thing you see, so getting it right is key. Right now, there's a huge trend for over-the-top downstairs toilets, and I’m absolutely loving it. For this one, we’re using some gorgeous William Morris wallpaper, paired with painted paneling and clay tiles. I can't wait to see it all come together!.
When you browse Mash and Mint’s collection, which products catch your eye and why?
I love the rechargeable lamps. Really fun, with a nice pop of colour. Rechargeables are big at the moment.
Fun lockers too, I love the pop of colour and fun for a kids art room or something Love the wall sconces the materials together are amazing and so chic. I want these!
How do you stay connected with the design community, and where do you find ongoing inspiration?
