Interiors By Chloe is a boutique interior design studio based in the Cotswolds.
Chloe is passionate about creating curated and cleverly layered timeless interiors, using a combination of tailored handcrafted furnishings and ‘found’ antique pieces.
Chloe has worked across the UK for several award-winning studios in London before relocating to the countryside, working for renowned Top 100 House & Garden studio, Sims Hilditch.
Chloe now works across London and the South West on both Residential and Commercial projects offering bespoke, tailored interior design services.
Mash and Mint asked Chloe about her journey in Interior Design as we wanted to find out more about the stunning projects she has worked on and also what is behind Chloe’s design inspiration.
Inspiration & Beginnings
What inspired you to start “Interiors By Chloe,” and how did you begin your journey in interior design?
I’ve always been quite arty and creative, and growing up I had a real love for history and fashion.
The V&A was my favourite place to visit. I went to London College of Fashion studying visual merchandising and commercial design and whilst at university gained an internship at The Conran Shop in Chelsea. I was so inspired by all the beautiful furniture and loved putting together the interior displays.
From there, I decided after graduating I wanted to pursue a career in interior design and was lucky enough to begin as an interior stylist for a boutique interior design studio in Islington working on innovative show homes across London.
Over the years, I worked my way up to senior designer at another high end interior design company working across London and the home counties on Super Prime residential projects. I then moved down to Bath and joined Sims Hilditch, where I worked on an incredible array of properties across the UK, before starting Interiors By Chloe in 2023.
I had always dreamed of running my own business and after years of working for different studios with their own unique style, I was keen to share my own look and feel with the world.
Can you describe your design philosophy and what “thoughtfully tranquil spaces” mean to you?
My designs are always inspired by nature, the location and context of the building. I like mixing elements of old and new, which creates a timeless feel. I believe homes should feel like a sanctuary, calm and inviting but with personality rather than feeling like a show home. I believe in practicality and function, but in a way that is beautiful.
Design Process and Approach
How do you approach a new project? What are the first steps you take when creating a design plan for a client?
A big part of the initial design process is getting to really know the client. We invite new clients to answer a questionnaire with lots of images for them to feedback on.
Often people don’t know what they like or dislike until it’s in front of them. We then produce an initial set of mood boards which we discuss together, which is our take on the direction we should be heading in.
We also review the context of the building, taking into account it’s location and architectural design which also really informs the design, and is often interesting for the client if it’s a newly purchased property.
Can you walk us through your thought process when selecting colours and materials for a space?
The main decider is how the space is going to be used, who is going to be using it and the mood that the client wants to create. The natural light is also obviously a big determiner.
Cotswold Influence
Being based in the Cotswolds, how does the local aesthetic and environment influence your design choices?
We are so lucky in the Cotswolds to be surrounded by lots of excellent craftsmen, I try to work with many local businesses. We also have some fabulous antique shops and I always love introducing antique pieces into my projects.
The countryside is just stunning here.The farmhouse look is so timeless and works in both old and new properties and the soft muted colours of the surroundings are the perfect palette for a calming feel inside.
What unique elements of Cotswold style do you like to incorporate into your projects?
I love mixing old and new pieces together. Fun patterns with more classic pieces. Lots of rustic timber.
Client Collaboration
How do you balance your design vision with your clients’ personal tastes and needs?
I try and encourage clients to have as much input as possible into the design. We will often visit antiques stores and showrooms together.
Interior design is such a personal thing, I think it’s really important to utilise client’s existing pieces too to make sure the client’s personality shines through in the home and it makes for a really interesting project.
What is the most challenging part of creating a space that feels both tranquil and functional?
Ensuring there are functional places for storage and clutter to be hidden away alongside spaces designed for showcasing personal items is really important. Even when space is at a premium, I always try to ensure there is a little spot for accessories and artwork just to make the space feel special.
It’s also important to make sure you really think about how you will be using the space and choosing the appropriate materials for this. For example, choosing a reclaimed farmhouse dining table is a great idea for a space that’s going to be used every day so you aren’t precious about spillages and sticky fingers.
Trends and Personal Style
What current interior design trends are you excited about, and how do you see them evolving?
I really don’t feel like I follow trends!
Can you describe a recent project that you’re particularly proud of and what made it special?
I am currently working on a wonderful 18th century listed Post Office which is a real dream project for me. It has so many beautiful existing features which I am closely working with the lovely clients with to restore and showcase. It’s going to be the most perfect quintessential Cotswold cottage once we’re finished.
Creating Tranquillity
What are your top tips for creating a serene and calming environment at home? and how do you incorporate elements like lighting, texture, and scent to enhance the tranquillity of a space?
Try to stick to a colour palette that naturally occurs within nature and always mix manmade elements with natural to soften. For example, a glass metal framed coffee table pared with oak side tables.
Lighting is really important, simple things like the shade on a table lamp instantly soften for a more ambient feel. Having cleverly layered levels of lighting that can create different moods is key.
I’m also obsessed with candles and diffusers!
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’d say my signature style is relaxed, timeless and inspired by nature. I always try to mix styles, both with furnishings and architectural elements so nothing looks too curated or too perfect.
The grey stone ceramic lamp at Mash and Mint perfectly fits in with my style. I love a chunky lamp! Also love the Indie chest of drawers – it’s great for a more contemporary farmhouse feel.
Advice for Aspiring Designers
What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue a career in interior design?
My advice would be to try and get as much experience as you can. I interned with many different companies before landing my first job and I learned so much doing so. Some were not my personal taste but I learned to appreciate and my own style evolved from this. Each design studio will also have a different process which is also really helpful to learn how to get the most out of your own creativity.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles. People get set in a particular look because their house is Victorian for example. If you look at brands like Soho House, they are so clever in mixing mid century with modern and it looks great and has some personality.
Future Visions
What are your aspirations for the future of “Interiors by Chloe”? Are there any exciting projects or new directions you’re looking forward to?
Our team is slowly growing, I would love to have even more designers on board helping. We are also excited to start working on a new commercial project and hope that this is the first of many for us.
Sustainability and Well-Being
How important is sustainability in your design process, and what steps do you take to ensure your designs are environmentally friendly?
We are lucky to have so many amazing suppliers manufacturing in the UK, and I try as much as possible to only use these suppliers. Even more so, I try and work with local small businesses, for example all of our upholstery and curtains are made here in the Cotswolds.
How do you stay connected with the design community, and where do you find ongoing inspiration?
Pinterest and Instagram. I love both for inspiration, I have so many folders on Pinterest categorised which often is my first point of call when I begin working on a new project.
