A nickname has turned into an acknowledgement aspect for every professional brand that lives in the digital world. How and why did you choose ‘The interiors lady’ as a professional name of war?
I was measuring up for window dressings at a client’s house and she was talking to a friend on the phone and she said: “I’ve got my interiors lady here.” I really liked the sound of it so I decided to use it as my instagram handle.
How did your interior design career start?
I used to have a small interiors shop in the village where I lived selling home accessories and furniture. When I moved back to the city where I now live, I closed the shop and now just work on small freelance projects.
How do you inspire your clients? Or rather are they the ones that inspire you?
I offer an inspiration visit, where I spend time chatting to my clients to find out more about how they live in their home, what their interior style is and then help to create their vision through decor and styling.
In this sense, social networks have meant a turning point for the interior designer profession. Can you give us concrete examples of what you have achieved or what they have meant to you?
Sharing my recent renovations on Instagram has really grown my following. I enjoy sharing my home interior style and details of brands I’ve used to create my home.
We usually hide the best-kept secrets at home. In your case, you openly show the space to the point of turning it into a reference showcase for many interior designers. Do you have a favorite corner in your home and why so?
I do share images of my home but how I actually live in my home always stays personal to myself and my family. I’ve got a few favorite spots in the house but love standing cooking at my hob and looking out at my beautiful view.
Do you believe in the personalization of materials and resources or do you understand that the interior designer has to adapt to what is given?
With regard to materials and resources, I research what products are available to achieve the required look within the budget.
Let’s go further, with which materials do you feel freer, more creative, more artistic?
When choosing materials, I like to explore different options and then consider the practicality of the products for their use and also the price, etc.
In particular, what experience have you had with COMPAC materials, such as those of the Genesis™ and Unique™ Collections?
I’ve recently used COMPAC Unique™ in my own kitchen. I first saw the product online and sent for samples. I loved the look and the feel of the product and used it to create my island which is a main feature in my home.
Which kind of spaces would the recycled glass of the new Obsidiana material inspire you? How do you include eco-friendly materials in your projects?
I love the new Obsidiana surface and love that it’s made from recycled glass. I’m considering using this product in my next kitchen project.
Can you tell us about projects that you are especially proud of?
I’m especially proud of my kitchen. I worked with a really tight budget to create a luxurious look. I used Ikea units and custom-made doors and the crowning glory was the Unique Calacatta™ quartz by COMPAC.
How was the design, planning and execution process in these cases?
The design of the kitchen was really simple so fitting and installation were really easy. The work surface was templated and fitted by a local installer who was recommended to me.
What was the process like for the magic space that you created in your kitchen? How did you come to decide that Unique Calacatta™ was the right material for the island? What has it been like to create the island and how is using it?
We created an open plan living space and the kitchen needed to be functional without looking too much like a ‘kitchen’ in the space. The room isn’t huge and I needed storage so the island was designed to be a multi-purpose feature. Large drawers for storage and access to cooking utensils and dinnerware etc, housing for hob and oven and I chose the work surface for practicality and aesthetic.
Who are your references?
I’ve always been inspired by Kelly Hoppen. Her designs always have clean lines and a neutral palette which I find very easy on the eye.
Do you think local design trends still exist or that globalization has conditioned a more standardized concept?
There will always be design trends and fashions to inspire us but we don’t necessarily have to follow them.
If you were given a choice, which space would you decorate and design right now, without a second thought?
If I had the choice to design any space right now it would be my dream space of a sleek, minimal black-clad cabin.
Thanks for your time. We hope you continue to be inspired by the beauty of the primary.
