Everyone wants a beautiful home. A home where function and form are perfectly balanced. In an age where our homes are often our workspace and our retreat from the world, good design isn’t optional; it’s essential. Everyone deserves to live and work in spaces that make them smile, tell their story, and elevate their everyday.
Yes, for many, engaging an interior designer is still not an obvious choice. Perhaps it’s still perceived as a preserve of the rich? Maybe there remains an air of mystery around what an interior designer does? Or perhaps people just don’t think they need one.
What ever the reason, here are the reasons why we think you should consider engaging an interior designer for your project…
1/ An expert design process
If you’re contemplating an extension you wouldn’t hesitate to hire an architect. If you need your home rewiring you’d call in an electrician. To create your perfect interior space, which is both beautiful and functional, it’s an interior designer you need. An interior designer knows exactly where to start, what to ask, what works and what doesn’t. An interior designer is qualified, experienced and has a design process which has been honed over the years. Once you find the right designer for you, you can trust the process, confident that you’ll love the finished result.
2/ It’ll save you money
Interior Design is becoming more accessible and there are lots of affordable design packages on the market. Interior design professionals do charge for their work though and there’s probably some truth around the saying “you get what you pay for”. So how, when you’re paying design fees on top of your other project costs, does hiring a designer save you money? A few ways, actually:
You usually gain access to trade discounts. These will vary, but you’re likely to be able better rates when using an interior designer.
You’ll avoid costly mistakes. You won’t end up with a sofa that isn’t quite the right scale for your space, or the expensive wallpaper that just doesn’t quite look right. They know what they’re doing; they know what works (and, importantly, what doesn’t).
Interior Designers know how best to work with a budget. It’s what they do, and part of their advice should be helping you decide how best to spend your budget to achieve the space you want.
3/ It’ll save you time
Life is busy and time is precious. Yet, good interior design takes time, and sometimes quite a lot of it. An interior designer knows how to work through the design process efficiently, making it easy for you to make confident decisions about the design of your space. By hiring an interior designer you can take the stress out of the process (both the design and project co-ordination) and actually enjoy creating your dream space.
4/ Access to trusted trades
Finding experienced, reliable trades who are able to do the work you want, when you want can be tricky. An interior designer works with a trusted team of contractors and sub-contractors on projects all the time. No more worrying about whether they’ll do a good job, or whether they are properly insured – your designer has done all the hard work for you.
5/ Confidence
A good interior designer should empower you. Not only to have confidence in the design decisions you make throughout the design process, but to live with confidence in the space you’ve created. Interior design should be about creating a space that tells your story and, importantly, creates a space for you to continue that story. Interiors aren’t static; they evolve and grow. Having a space expertly created for you allows you to engage with, and enjoy, the space with confidence.
So, whether you’re sprucing up the spare room or contemplating a major renovation, working with an interior designer can help achieve a better design, but also a more enjoyable process (as well as a few savings a long the way!).
Have you worked with an interior designer before? Or are you contemplating one for your project?
It might not be the fashionable thing to say but, I really dislike the new year obsession with interior trends. Almost everywhere you look in December and January there’s an article telling you what will be on-trend in the next year. Of course, we’ll always see trends emerging through interior design retailers and suppliers: there’ll be sought after styles and popular patterns, as well as forecast colours of the year. It can be fun to see what is predicated BUT it can also distract from the real heart of interior design: how you want a space to feel.
Trends are great for inspiration, for gathering ideas, for pushing you out of your comfort zone. But simply incorporating design ideas because they are popular or on-trend can lead to a design which feels disconnected from you and your lifestyle. Take Instagram and Pinterest, for example – an image of a trending interior may look fabulous but simply replicating a “look” does not take into account your space, how you use it, and how it connects to the rest of your home. Of course design is about the aesthetic, but it’s also about finding an aesthetic that works for you and your space.
So how should you be approaching your interior design in 2023? You should absolutely be designing for YOU: not to create something on-trend (something else will be “on-trend” next year anyway!), not to create something for Instagram or Pinterest. I’m not saying ignore trends, I’m just saying don’t follow them. If you love it and it works for you, whether it’s forecast on-trend or not, then great.
So here are my three tips to make sure you’re designing for YOU this year:
1/ Think about how you want a space to feel.
I ask clients to choose three words which set the tone for any design I create. Keep your three words in mind and then, when you’re making choices along the way, ask yourself whether they help create that feeling. It helps create consistency with your design and can stop you getting carried away with discreet items or trends which take your fancy along the way!
2/ Choose colours and patterns that make you happy.
A good place to start is your wardrobe: what colours are you naturally drawn to and like to surround yourself with? What patterns make you smile? It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use forecast colours-of-the-year, or on-trend colour combinations – it just means you do the work first and make sure they create the feeling you want for your space. But don’t be tempted to play it safe; if you love something bold and beautiful, use it. Don’t be afraid. But similarly, if softer neutrals are your thing, then use them to create a space that works for you – regardless of what is set to be on-trend.
3/ Think about well-being and sustainability.
Well-being and sustainability may still be mentioned as being “on-trend” but I think they go way beyond this now. They are far more integral to any design process – or at least they should be. Well-being is at the heart of what we’re trying to create as designers; a space, a home that supports and enhances your lifestyle and well-being. It doesn’t mean your bathroom needs to resemble a spa but it does mean you should approach your design by thinking about how you live and what you can do to enhance your sense of well-being (both physical and mental). It’s the same with sustainability; we have a responsibility to consider any purchase we make (for our homes or otherwise) and to source sustainably wherever we can. That’s not a trend – it should be integral to how we live.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on interior trends for this year? Do you enjoy reading about them? How do you make sure you decorate for you?
I came across Boo’s work for the first time on Instagram. Her work embraces colour and texture, all within strong visual graphics. It is striking, beautiful and bold. I’ve loved finding out more about Boo; previously a graphic designer, and now a full time artist. Her work is all about colour, and creating a connection with the viewer. Art has to be about an emotional response. No pretence; just how it makes you feel. Fairly simple when you think about it like that. So, grab a cuppa and have a read about Boo’s journey to becoming an artist and take a look at some of her beautiful pieces.
Please can you describe your work for us?
My work is contemporary abstract. Most of my work is mixed media, mainly using acrylics but I love to use collage, oil sticks, and spray paint. I have also been creating work using lots of glazes lately. My work is all about colour, a feeling, that’s what I’m aiming for.
We’d love to know more about your journey to becoming an artist.
Following an Art Foundation course, I went on to study Graphic Design at Kingston which I loved. I went on to open my own Graphic Design Studio in West Hampstead, London. My clients included The Institute of Contemporary Art, The South Bank Centre, Soul II Soul and lots of music industry-based work.
Sixteen years ago I left London with my daughter Lily, and we moved to Suffolk in search of a quieter, more peaceful life. I have always painted, but began to do so more and more in Suffolk.
Eventually, years later, after lots of hard work, exhibitions and getting noticed, it has happily turned into my full time job….a job I really love!
Where do you find inspiration?
So many things inspire me. My work usually begins in my head – painting colours in my mind. My work is based on colour/emotion, for the viewer and me. I think I am most inspired by colour that we see everywhere and something will get me going. It could be fashion or some beautifully designed graphics, or the incredible Suffolk coastline.
Which artists are you most inspired and/or influenced by?
I’m really inspired by Colour Field Artists – Rothko inspires me massively, I could look at his work all day long. Forever, in fact.
Can you describe a typical day for us?
I wake up far too early every day. I try to start the day, with a run on the treadmill in my studio listening to House music from my London days. Whilst running, I look at my studio works in progress on the walls and plan my next painting move. I paint most mornings as this is my most productive time, creatively. I return late afternoon, early evening for more.
Do you ever suffer from a “creative block” and, if so, how do you deal with it?
Yes, absolutely; I think we all do from time to time. The best thing for me to do is get out of the studio, and walk Dot, our dog, by the river. Or go to the sea; I always come back re-inspired once I’ve spent time by the sea. I’m then back into the studio with fresh eyes and seeing everything in a new light – hopefully!
Is there a piece of art you’ve created which you’re particularly fond, or proud, of?
It’s hard to choose one particular painting, as each painting leads you on to another. But if I have to pick a couple of recents, a piece that sold recently through Silson Contemporary called Picnic in soft green (100X75cm) was a favourite. Also a painting called ‘In Deep’ (100X75cm) which was one of Hugo Barclay’s (AAF Director), highlights/top picks (and happily sold) at the Affordable Art Fair Battersea. It is sometimes hard to say goodbye to certain paintings.
If you could create a piece for one person (celebrity or otherwise) who would it be?
In my dreams I would love to create a piece for Stormzy; I completely admire him and love his music, and his sense of giving back.
Do you have any tips for people choosing artwork for their own home?
Most importantly for me it would be a painting that moves you emotionally, brings you peace or happiness.
Where can we see and buy your work?
I am proud to be represented by Silson Contemporary (Harrogate) and Gina Cross (London). Instagram is my main platform for sharing my process and new work, and I also sell work directly from Instagram. My work is available to buy directly from me, via my website, via Instagram, or studio visits by appointment.
I’m recently back to Suffolk after an incredible time showing at The Affordable Art Fair, Battersea for Gina Cross – back home to the studio to work. I’ll be painting for the Summer Show 2023 at Silson Contemporary. I will also be exhibiting in Aldeburgh, Suffolk, in late summer. I have a number of commissions to complete for clients, so lots to keep me busy. I’m very grateful for all of it.
Nothing makes my heart sing quite as much as getting the opportunity to design a nursery. The joy, the expectation; the start of a new chapter in someone’s story.
But if you’re designing your own nursery space, where do you start? Pinterest is full of gorgeous nursery images. Baby online boutiques style their products in beautiful nursery sets. But how do you create that perfect aesthetic whilst making it practical, safe and future-proof?
The reality is, a baby doesn’t stay a baby for long. But, that doesn’t mean you have to design for their teen years straight-away. If you want to indulge those baby months, then indulge away. But, having an eye to those short term future changes might help you design something with a little more longevity.
I start how I start any other room design. How do you want the room to feel? Do you want it to feel bold and bright? Do you want it to be a relaxing, calming space? If have a clear idea about the feeling you want to create, rather than using an image as a design-hook, then you’re more likely to end up with a room you love. Each time you make a design decision you can check back and ask, does that help create a room with the “feel” that I want?
Undeniably, designing a nursery should be fun. It should be full of excitement, optimism and anticipation. You absolutely should not feel constrained by a “baby theme”. This is the one space you can create for your child that reflects totally what you want, so do feel free to indulge yourself. That said, there are also a number of practicalities which I do think it is important to address to ensure that the room functions properly and safely.
So here are a few tips for creating that swoon-worthy nursery….
1/ What do you actually need?
First write a list of what YOU actually need. Of course, read all the lists of things that online forums (and retailers) tell you you need, but think about what you will actually need to use. This is especially hard if you’re a first time parent. So, my advice would be keep it simple; you usually need far less than you think you do! A cot, clothes storage, a change mat (although, I would suggest, not necessarily a changing table), somewhere to keep nappies, blankets etc and a few small toys. A chair is also a good investment if you have space – you spend a lot of time feeding in those early months. And when it comes to clothes storage, don’t just rush out and buy the nursery furniture set. Think about what you need. Do you need a wardrobe or would drawers work (especially if you have a small space); they also have the advantage of providing an extra surface, which is always useful (and perfect for styling-up).
And finally, on furniture, look beyond nursery retailer’s nursery sets. You don’t have to have something sold specifically for a baby’s room. Instead of a specific nursing chair, you may be able to find a super-comfy chair you’ll use somewhere else in the house later on. Perhaps a vintage chest of drawers could be painted to create a lovely, unique piece. Be creative, as you would in any room.
2/ Look at layout
Often the nursery is the smallest room in the house so you may be restricted with layout options, but it’s worth taking a moment at the start to figure out where things are going to do. Try and keep a little bit of floor space for tummy and play-time. Think about the positioning of windows and radiators for both safety and temperature. You don’t want a cot against either a window or a radiator.
Also have a think about where your electric sockets are positioned. You’re likely to have a baby-monitor, and room thermometer that need plugging in and positioning, so just make sure your layout works. It’s much easier to get additional sockets in at the start before you’ve decorated.
3/ Consider light
No one wants a baby waking as soon as the sun rises, or when you trip over the nappy basket as you creep in to check on them in the middle of the night! Decent window dressing is essential. You don’t need to buy special products, just make sure that your whole window is covered and get any blinds or curtains made with a blackout lining. If you’re using a roman blind check whether it lets light in around the sides. If so, consider adding a pair of curtains too (you don’t need to spend a fortune – a pair of ready-made linen curtains is probably enough to diffuse any surrounding light).
And make sure you add a dimmer switch. It allows you to have very soft lighting at bedtime, and also if you need a little light to change nappies the middle of the night. Night lights are also useful to have, and fairy lights (hung safely away from the cot or where baby can reach them) can create a really beautiful atmosphere.
4/ Have fun
A nursery doesn’t have to be light and neutral. It can be, of course, and it can look beautiful in being so. But don’t be afraid of using colour and pattern. Colourful eye-catching designs can be great for when your little one starts to look around and respond to things. Adding pattern can really help develop a sense of personality in the space. Find a balance that works for you. Perhaps it’s a subtle wallpaper that adds a hint of colour, or perhaps you want to add some vibrant accessories. Don’t play it down just because you think it needs to be pale. You can still create a peaceful space with some colour and pattern.
When you’re choosing paints, it’s worth looking for a really durable finish. Really flat, chalky finishes look fabulous but the walls of this room have to work hard. Help it out a little and choose something more durable. Most paint companies now have a more durable finish which doesn’t compromise completely on the matt finish.
5/ Keep it personal
A nursery is a really special space, so make it as personal as you can. Don’t just look for generic nursery-style prints, mix in artwork which means something to you, or reflects your family life. Make it quirky – make a little gallery wall that you can add to over the months and years as your baby grows. Look for interesting prints and combine them with felt animal heads and little mirrors. Have fun!
And remember, you don’t have to have everything finished before the baby arrives. Maybe leave some space to put up some photos. Spend the money on a newborn photo shoot and use the images on the wall. Or get footprints done and add them to a shelf.
Undoubtedly a nursery has to work hard. You need to address the practical elements otherwise it just won’t work. But ultimately it’s a space you want to enjoy being in. Your baby won’t remember what it looks like, but as a family you’ll remember how it made you feel.
Andy’s work stopped me in my tracks. I discovered him through Instagram where he showcases his paintings. His work is beautiful and ethereal; he uses colour with delicacy and in a way which delivers such impact. There’s a life to his work which draws you in. I could certainly sit and look at his paintings for hours. I was therefore delighted when Andy agreed to this conversation about his career, his art and his inspiration. I particularly like Andy’s ethos that you don’t need to know anything about art to know you love it. In his words, if something “stirs the soul…then you probably need it in your life!” I love this; it’s what art is all about – a connection, a love, a feeling. It doesn’t matter if you can’t critique it or explain why you love it.
So grab a cuppa and enjoy this conversation with Andy; I think you’ll like it.
Can you describe your work for us?
I feel my paintings would probably best be described as semi-abstract expressionist romantic, which is a bit longwinded but probably about right. However, I think that if you try to categorise yourself too precisely there is a danger you get stuck in a certain way of working and you then only identify yourself with that genre, and as an artist, you need to be open to new ways of working or you can become predictable and unadventurous.
This leads to the idea of having a style; it’s quite a conundrum – when artists start out, they are often told or feel that they need to acquire a recognisable style; galleries like that consistency and perhaps art buyers too, there is something reassuring about the familiarity of the work of a particular artist; but this of course ties an artist down, rather than freeing them up to discover fresh fields, and once a successful formula has been found, it’s tempting to just repeat yourself.
We’d love to hear a little more about your journey to becoming an artist.
I was perhaps rather guilty of taking that path earlier in my career when I painted still life watercolours exclusively for ten years, and although they were hugely successful in terms of sales, in the end they just weren’t lifting my spirit, so I made a conscious decision to abandon them and I took up oils and became more interested in exploring the landscape which I feel far more connected to. When I look at my own work I suppose I have found a style, but more by accident and experimentation than design.
I hope that within that well-worn tradition of landscape painting, I’ve been willing to immerse myself in an ever more engaged way; really trying to express the depth of what nature tells us, a celebration of the land we walk on and my own relationship to it. I sense that my work has had a slow but steady evolution which has moved in and out of degrees of abstraction, I’m also very excited about how colours work together, tending towards using a limited palette and expressing feeling over a representational approach.
What would you say are your sources of inspiration?
My work is rooted in the Sussex countryside, but I am increasingly less interested in specific geography and more in letting imagination take over. So while I will walk through nature I don’t often record it, it’s more about absorbing it – I might make the odd sketch or take a photograph, may even refer to them in the studio, but I shy away from having a fixed idea of how a painting will conclude; if I knew what I was going to end up with there would be no point in starting, no real journey or adventure, merely a method of reaching a defined goal.
Can you describe a typical day for us?
I tend to work in long and intense bursts of activity where nothing else gets in the way, it’s quite obsessive and these periods usually last for weeks or months without any real break and then perhaps I’ll suddenly realise I’m quite exhausted or need to stop to prepare for an exhibition, which is often followed by a time of rest, reflection and consideration. After that, a slow building sense of something new begins to make its presence felt and I’m off again!
Do you ever suffer from creative block? If so, how do you deal with it
I don’t tend to suffer from creative block, it’s more that I will sometimes doubt my own ability, the old imposter syndrome that perhaps many creatives occasionally feel. But my experience of painting has always been equal parts joy and frustration, which I fully accept as how it has to be, so while I am forever trying to make the ultimate wondrous painting, I am hoping never to achieve it for fear of there being nowhere left to go; nothing to strive for.
Is there anyone you’d love to create a painting for?
I have never been able or really wanted to make specific paintings for people which might sound selfish, and the very rare commissions I’ve had have not gone too well, so I no longer seek them out. I think it’s because the painting process for me comes from such a deep place that anyone else’s expectation becomes a compromise and the process stilted, almost dishonest. It feels much better to make work that resonates with my own spirit in the hope that it will speak to someone else too, and when that kind of emotional connection occurs it’s a truly rewarding experience.
Do you have any tips for people choosing artwork for their home
For people choosing art for their home, I would only advise be impulsive and trust your instincts. I often hear the time honoured phrase ‘I don’t know anything about art, but I know what I like’ which to me is really the only criteria you need. If it moves you in some way, be it thought provoking, something that you find uplifting or that stirs the soul in whatever way, then you probably need it in your life!
And finally, where can we see, and buy, your work?
My studio is set within our Georgian home in Arundel and we welcome visitors by appointment; there is always a good selection of paintings on the walls, and work in progress for those interested to see the process. My paintings are available to browse and purchase from my website at www.andywaite.net where you can also sign up to my mailing list to receive updates for new collections and exhibitions.
We hold two open house exhibitions a year, one as part of Arundel Gallery Trail which takes place during the last ten days of August, and the other over three long weekends preceding Christmas, which this year will be 2nd-4th/9th-11th/16th-18th December. All details can be found on my website at www.andywaite.net
I have a number of galleries around the UK that hold my work permanently – these are listed on my website.
I have also self-published three books of paintings which are all accompanied by a few poems, and one where the emphasis has been on poetry but which includes a number of monochrome photographs. These are available from my website.
