We sat down with our designer, Gabriela Hughes, and asked her a few burning questions we had about what it’s like to be an Interior Designer and what design faux pas we might be making in our own homes! Read on to find out what she had to say and for a peek at one of her latest designs…
WHAT SPARKED YOUR LOVE FOR INTERIOR DESIGN?
It was always there! I used to draw house plans when I was little, and all the houses were by the sea. My childhood home also sparked in me the love for good design.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE ROOM IN A HOUSE TO DESIGN AND WHY?
Definitely the Living Room. There is so much to think about! I love open plan spaces where so many activities happen in one place – where we relax, entertain, work & play. Comfort is essential and the space must reflect your lifestyle throughout.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST INTERIOR DESIGN FAUX PAS THAT YOU CONSTANTLY SEE?
Two things! Cushions arranged in a diamond shape, balancing uncomfortably on their tip. A cushion should be placed flat on one of its sides. Also, small art hung high on the middle of a large wall. Both are done too often, and I cannot think why!?!
HOW DO YOU FEEL ART IMPACTS THE HOME OR WORK ENVIRONMENT?
Too little importance is given to art. Art should be the central piece in every space! Very often it is an afterthought with the wrong scale (too small), poorly framed and the content irrelevant. Interiors are never finished until a good piece of art is displayed where needed. That also goes for accessories.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ANYONE LOOKING TO BECOME AN INTERIOR DESIGNER / INTERIOR DESIGN STUDENTS?
You need to be hungry for new things, be curious, be open minded. An interior designer must design to satisfy the client’s wishes and steer them into the right informed decisions. For me, it is essential that my work results in happy homes and happy clients.
HOW HAS THE INTERIOR DESIGN INDUSTRY EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS…
It has changed beyond recognition. Designers have the world at their feet with design programs and since the use of the internet. There is so much more product variety now that any style can be catered for from fabrics and wallcoverings to lighting and furniture.
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO FOR LIFE?
Be in love with what you do, so much so that work becomes a hobby, something to enjoy.
Gabriela specialises in working with our private clients and is incredibly talented at transforming her client’s initial ideas into their dream homes. If you would like to book a consultation with Gabriela, please call us on 0121 451 1201 and we will be more than happy to arrange this for you.