In this edition of our Spotlight Series, we’re catching up with the fabulous Michelle from Colour Brave Interiors, a designer known for her unapologetic use of bold colour, fearless layering of pattern and texture, and her mission to help others create homes bursting with joy and personality. Michelle's journey is a celebration of creativity, confidence, and colour. Her work champions individuality and sustainable choices, blending vintage finds with modern design and empowering clients to embrace their true style. Get ready to be inspired by her story, her tips, and her full-bodied flamboyant approach to interiors.
Michelle's Design Process and Approach
Tell us about your journey into interior design. What inspired you to pursue this career?
I’ve always been utterly obsessed with colour, texture, and pattern, it all began as a teenager when I was constantly changing up my bedroom and soaking up inspiration while working in fashion retail. Before diving into the world of interiors full-time, I spent over 20 years in marketing. But, it was buying our first family home that really lit the spark. I took a short interior design course and that was it, I was hooked! Now, six years on, I’m studying for a Higher National Certificate in Interior Design with the British Academy of Interior Design, and working with wonderful clients through my business, Colour Brave Interiors.
How would you describe your design philosophy, and how has it evolved over time?
My philosophy is simple: be bold, be brave, and make it joyful. I believe that your home should be a true reflection of your personality. For me, it’s all about helping people feel confident with colour and express their individuality through their interiors. Over time, I’ve learned to trust my instincts more, push boundaries, and encourage my clients to do the same. Design should be fun, not fearful or a chore.
How do you approach a new project? What are the first steps you take when creating a design plan for a client?
I always start by getting to know my clients deeply, what makes them tick, how they live, what they love (and hate!). From there, I build a design plan that’s totally tailored to them. I create mood boards, pull samples, and then the magic begins. It’s a collaborative process. I love taking clients on a journey that helps them see what’s possible.
Main & Second Image: Chris Booth Photos
How does your personal style influence the projects you work on with clients?
I can’t help but bring my love for bold, beautiful colour into every project. I’m not afraid to go full-on with it, walls, ceilings, woodwork, everything! I don’t see white as a colour, it’s just a missed opportunity. I also adore mixing vintage with contemporary, bringing soul and sustainability into the mix. It’s about layering up texture, pattern, and personality.
How do you ensure your designs are both functional and aesthetically pleasing for your clients?
Good design needs to work hard. I make sure that every space I create doesn’t just look gorgeous, it has to function beautifully too. That means clever layouts, practical storage, and making sure the space suits the way my clients actually live. Beauty and practicality can (and should!) go hand in hand.
Trends & Personal Style
How would you describe your signature style, and how do you ensure it shines through in each of your projects?
Full-bodied flamboyance! Colour, colour and more colour. I love playing with unexpected combinations and creating spaces that really pack a punch. I adore bold wallpaper, fabulous fabrics, and statement accessories that start conversations. I also believe in blending old and new, bringing in vintage pieces gives depth and meaning. I want every room to feel like a celebration of who you are. I want my clients to walk in and think, “Wow! I never knew I could have this!”
How do you stay inspired and keep your creativity flowing, especially when working on multiple projects?
There’s inspiration everywhere if you keep your eyes open. I’m constantly photographing things I see out and about, visiting showrooms and trade shows, and taking part in events. Working with different clients also keeps me on my toes, every brief is different, and that keeps the creativity flowing.
Are there any design trends or styles that you’re particularly excited about right now? Perhaps you set your own trends?
I like to think I make my own trends! But I am excited about the growing love for maximalism (this is more my vibe) and the shift towards more expressive, individual interiors. The move away from safe beige boxes and into bold, brave spaces feels like a breath of fresh air. Sustainability is also huge for me, bringing vintage pieces into modern homes is stylish and planet-friendly.
Image: Focal Point Photography
Advice
What advice would you give to aspiring interior designers looking to start their own business?
Get qualified, even if you’re studying part-time while working another job. It gives you confidence, credibility, and structure. With a high level of competition and influencers becoming designers, for me it’s the accredited designers that stand out. Don’t under sell or under-price yourself and make sure you have multiple income streams. Go to trade shows, talk to reps, build relationships, you’ll need those contacts later. Be the face of your brand, people buy from people. And believe in yourself. You’ve got this!
What advice would you give to aspiring designers about finding their unique style and voice in the industry?
Don’t be afraid to show your face and let people see the real you. Your personality is your superpower, lean into it! Be visible online, speak your truth, and use your creativity to build a brand that matters. You don’t have to do what everyone else is doing. In fact, please don’t!
Image: Focal Point Photography
Michelle's Top Tips
What are your top three interior design tips for homeowners looking to refresh their spaces?
Buy vintage. It adds character, charm, and sustainability to your home.
Mix luxe with budget. You don’t need to spend a fortune to create something fabulous.
Always test your paint! Colours look different depending on the light and time of day. Never skip this step.
Future Visions & Colour Brave interiors
What services do you offer at Colour Brave Interiors and how do you tailor them to meet clients' needs?
I offer a range of interior design and home staging services, working on both residential and commercial spaces across Lancashire, Cumbria, Newcastle, Northumberland, County Durham, Teesside and Tyne and Wear. Whether it’s a colour consultation, full design scheme, bespoke furniture design, or help styling a serviced property. I tailor everything to fit the client’s needs and lifestyle. It’s all about creating joyful, intentional spaces that feel right.
What do you envision for the future of Colour Brave Interiors?
I’m really excited about the direction the business is heading. I’ve found my purpose and it’s empowering people to be brave with their homes. I’ve got some beautiful projects in the pipeline, and I’m always open to what’s around the corner. Watch this space!
Are there any exciting upcoming projects or plans?
One big goal for me is to grow the holiday rental side of the business. I’ve been loving the recent bedroom designs we’ve created, bold, vibrant, full of personality and those spa-inspired bathrooms. They honestly look like they’ve come straight out of a boutique hotel. I’d love to do more of that, designing spaces that make people feel something the moment they walk in.
Being the face of my business is something I fully embrace. I think it’s so important to show up with an authentic voice, especially in this industry. That’s why I’m launching a new podcast series, a mix of fashion and interiors (two of my biggest loves!) with honest conversations about running a creative business. I will have a co-host who is equally as excited as me! It’ll go hand-in-hand with my blog on the new Colour Brave website, where I’ll be sharing everything from design inspiration to behind-the-scenes stories and advice for anyone starting out.
This next chapter is all about empowering others, celebrating individuality, and continuing to create bold, beautiful spaces that surprise and delight. There’s so much more to come and I can’t wait to share it all with you.
Image: Focal Point Photography
Community and Influence
How do you stay connected with the design community, and where do you find ongoing inspiration?
I stay inspired by staying curious. I’m always learning, through my studies, from my clients, and from the brilliant design community online. I love connecting with other creatives, sharing knowledge, and cheering each other on. I am part of a vibrant community of designers, artists and retailers locally, we meet regularly to share stories and we collaborate and inspire each other. There’s so much talent out there, it’s a joy to be part of it.
When you browse Mash and Mint’s collection, which products catch your eye and why?
I love the printed shades from Houseof, I used these as part of a design for a holiday rental in Whitby. The colours and stripes went perfectly with the deckchair theme I was creating. I’m also obsessed with their pleated ceiling lights too. These pieces not only reflect my love for bold designs and quality but they align with my commitment to creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Incorporating such elements can truly transform a space, making it feel curated and intentional.
I also love Ian Mankin’s recycled cotton throws. They are made using yarns salvaged from waste generated during spinning and fabric cutting (AKA post-production waste), how sustainably brilliant.
I love anything with colour, character, and charm from the Mash + Mint collection! I’m drawn to bold patterns, interesting textures, and playful accessories, pieces that tell a story and spark joy.
I can’t wait to see more new and exciting launches from Mash + Mint, this brand is incredible and if you’re looking for a founder who is fantastic to work with and is just as passionate about the spaces you are creating as you are you need to team up with Melita. You will be inspired!
Michelle’s fearless design philosophy and deep-rooted love for colour serve as a vibrant reminder that our homes should be a true reflection of who we are, bold, joyful, and full of character
Through Colour Brave Interiors, she’s not only transforming spaces but encouraging others to be braver with their choices and bolder in their creativity. We’re so excited to see what’s next for Michelle as she grows her business, launches her new podcast, and continues to champion individuality in interiors.
For more inspiration, visit www.colourbrave.co.uk and keep an eye on her vibrant work through future collaborations with Mash + Mint.
Would you dare to go bold in your home?
You can also follow Michelle on Instagram visit @colourbraveinteriors
