What’s your role at StudiO and what does it involve?

As an interior designer, I create interior schemes, either as a stand-alone service or as part of larger architectural projects. I work closely with clients to develop their briefs – shaped by their requirements and aesthetics – before progressing to room layouts, elevations, mood boards and sample boards. I also guide clients’ design journeys from start to finish, coordinating suppliers and assisting with furniture selection and decoration. I also assist on architectural projects, getting into the nitty-gritty of technical design and construction, which adds a depth of technical finesse to the interior schemes. 

How did you first become interested in design?

I’ve always been drawn to design in its many forms. I studied textile design at university, and later worked as a couture embroidery designer in London. Interior design has always been an interest of mine. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been conscious of how much better I feel in spaces with charm and character compared to those that feel unconsidered. My past experience in textile and embroidery design helped me to develop a keen eye for detail, colour and balance, which is essential for designing interiors.

What do you find most interesting about your work?

Interior design is often overlooked or misconstrued as just choosing paint colours and cushions. But there’s so much more to it than that – done right, it can be life-enhancing. I’m fascinated by how the spaces we inhabit shape our lives. When I experience beautiful design and architecture, I get a very visceral feeling. I think most people do, even if they’re not explicitly aware of it. I believe good design – whether it’s an interior, a building, a piece of furniture or a work of art – has the power to improve our mood and well-being. I keep that in mind on every project.

What’s your favourite part of the design process?

I love the whole process because I love seeing all the different stages come together as one cohesive, finished product. But if I have to choose, my favourite stages are probably research and concept development. That’s where we get to really dive into the history of a building to make sure our designs and improvements sit well in their context, or find references for a completely new build. It’s also where we get to develop the brief alongside our clients and build on their aesthetic preferences and space requirements, which is always an interesting journey and completely unique to each project.

Which designers do you consider most influential or inspiring?

My favourite interior designers are Studio Ashby, Studio Atkinson, Rita Konig and Beata Heauman. Their mastery of layering textures and patterns enables them to create spaces that feel truly livable – as opposed to resembling a show home. They build their schemes around their clients’ treasured personal possessions, so that all their interiors feel personalised and unique to the people they were designed for. 

Which buildings, spaces or pieces do you find yourself returning to for inspiration? Why?

I love hotels! The best ones emulate the sort of relaxation and luxury I think most of us aspire to in our homes, so I often look to hotels for inspiration. Some of my favourites include Lime Wood Hotel in the New Forest and Thyme in Southrop. They do traditional, countryside interior design in a contemporary and fresh way, surprising you at every turn with an interesting choice of fabric or an unusual bit of furniture.

Tell us about a project that was particularly rewarding to work on.

I really enjoyed the recent Rosso remodel. It was fast-paced, with only five weeks in which to turn it around. We aimed to soften the restaurant by revealing its natural materials – the original wooden floor, brick, and granite. In doing so, we uncovered original windows and a tiny arched niche, which added incredible character to the space! The new colour scheme has made the space warm and welcoming, enhancing the feeling of the pizza oven extending out into the restaurant. Seeing the restaurant come to life since reopening has been incredibly rewarding.

What projects are you currently working on? What excites you about them?

I’m currently working on the interior design for The Georgian Villa, where on-site works have recently started. It’s an exciting project as it’s very much a conversation between old and new, and it’s been an interesting process making the interiors reflect that. Sadly, some of the property’s original features were lost in previous remodels. However, what remains is still incredibly rich and has guided our design, inspiring the reintroduction of fine joinery that honours the house’s history while also incorporating contemporary elements in the new areas.

⚫ Want to speak with Daria about a potential interiors project? Contact her on 01481 714 565 or daria@studi-o.io