How did you make the decision to work in design?

I hadn’t always planned to work in interiors, but after a short stint of exploring other disciplines, it really came down to asking myself what I would do if I could do anything. The answer was to design beautiful spaces that create unique and authentic experiences for people.

Tell us about your role at JOLIE?

As Senior Designers, we are responsible for taking the project from the brief through to completion under direction from Lead Designers and Directors. We work with clients to understand the target demographic and project requirements and then develop this into a full, tangible scheme incorporating all interior selections. This includes everything from space planning, finishes palettes and bespoke joinery, through to furniture, lighting and dressing.

How does the JOLIE approach feel different from other studios you have worked with?

At JOLIE, we take a holistic approach to the design of interior spaces. The emphasis is on the end-user; not only what they see but also what they hear, smell and touch as they move through the spaces. This approach allows us to have a greater impact on the way people experience the spaces we design.

If you hadn’t worked in ID, where do you think life would have taken you?

I am fortunate enough to be doing something I genuinely love every day, but if I hadn’t become an interior designer, I would almost certainly have worked in travel or hospitality. The thing I love most about interiors is developing a narrative and storytelling through spaces, which I think has a natural crossover with the travel and hospitality industries.

What is your favourite JOLIE memory?

It’s got to be our recent team trip to Edinburgh! As our team is split between London and Manchester it was great to have everyone together and explore a different city.  

Which JOLIE project did you most enjoy working on?

We are currently developing a design for a beautiful Grade II Listed Cotswolds Hotel, which is very exciting. The clients are energetic, enthusiastic and our values are perfectly aligned, so it’s shaping up to be a very special project.

What would be your idea of a dream project or client?

There are so many to choose from! However, a trip to the Maasai Mara in Kenya when I was younger has always served as a long-lasting inspiration to me. A remote safari lodge that encourages our relationship with nature and celebrates local people and traditions would undoubtedly be a dream project.

Where do you find your inspiration and what are your biggest design influences?

It has been said time and time again but inspiration really can come from anywhere! It can be from a patterned fabric on a well-tailored garment, a piece of music that defines the zeitgeist of a generation, the way light refracts through leaves outside your window; to the sights and sounds of a new city. The best thing you can do to find inspiration is to keep your eyes open and be curious about the world around you.

Can you think of a space that has had a profound experience on you as a result of the design?

Earlier this year I visited Casa Wabi, an artist’s retreat on the Oaxacan coast of Mexico, designed by Tadao Ando. The contrast of industrial and natural materials captures a contemporary yet traditional spirit, whilst the open layout and orientation of spaces creates a natural ventilation, which is a welcome respite from the hot climate. Apertures in the concrete are carefully placed to frame the sky, landscape and artist pavilions, creating a space that feels very rooted to its inhabitants and environment.

What’s the best place for afterwork drinks or food, and why do you recommend it?

Borough Market always has a great atmosphere after work and there are too many pubs, bars and restaurants to get through - trust me, I’ve tried!

And finally, what advice would you give to anyone looking for a career in Interiors?

There are so many talented and knowledgeable people in this industry; from other designers to experienced contractors, specialist suppliers and craftspeople. Learn and absorb as much as you can from them and don’t neglect the technical aspects of design.

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