Interior Design & Lifestyle Journal

Carolyn Miner has worked in some of the most prestigious institutions in the United States and in Europe, straddling the commercial and the academic so it would be accurate to conclude that she is not just interested in objects, she is obsessed. Her fixation manifests in her current roles as independent art advisor and editor-in-chief of Il Libro Magazine. Carolyn thinks in movements and relationships, always asking how one artwork is inspired by another, thereby creating the ever-important art historical chains of inspiration.

From flying across the world to view a painting for thirty minutes to bespoke crates for artworks that are often only used once, the art world has a notoriously terrible carbon footprint. Finally, in October 2020, the Gallery Climate Coalition was formed by a group of gallerists, journalists, fair organisers and others. With a mission to educate this sector and move towards a reduction of carbon emissions by 50% (in line with the Paris accords), the GCC is helpfully providing the tools and the expertise to the art world – and other industries - to achieve this goal.

Seeing one of Modernity’s stands at an art fair gives the perfect sense of the furniture gallery’s philosophy. Take, for example, the 2015 London edition of the Pavilion of Art and Design where they had a large stand with two separate seating areas divided by a beautiful dining table. Two of the three walls had small wooden slats placed close together in what looked like a striped effect. It was something completely out of the ordinary and actually made the furniture interact with the walls as opposed to merely existing within them. To Modernity, furniture pieces aren’t merely being treated as everyday objects, but as unique pieces of art.

The living room of this three-bedroom late-Edwardian home in St John’s Wood draws from art deco and 1920s design influences with a mid-century modernist twist. Bold geometric forms, luxe materials such as marble and limestone, and gold accents work together to create a space that is luminous, elegant and memorable.

For Charles Byron and Maria Gomez of bespoke furniture brand Byron & Gomez, every handcrafted piece they make begins with a story to tell. The Somerset-based duo creates unique designs for private clients, interior designers and architects, and recently completed a piece commissioned by Designed by Woulfe for a private residential client. In this conversation, we discuss the importance of storytelling through design and why sustainability matters.

Environmental awareness and sustainability have never been more of a priority for individuals, communities and businesses alike. Considered interior design can help create more homes that are better for the planet, the economy and our wellbeing.

Here, we look at some of the products and companies putting sustainability at the heart of what they do.

In this episode, Jeff and Susie are joined by Brian Woulfe of Designed by Woulfe to explore how the theory of "Emotion In Design' can be applied to the design of interior spaces. Is Don Norman’s approach just a marketing spin, or are there real benefits to be had? And if so, how can designers ensure that clients respond positively to their designs on all levels?

Environmental awareness and sustainability have never been more of a priority for individuals, communities and businesses alike. All industries are increasingly looking at reducing waste and the use of virgin materials, and that includes those working in the property sector. Considered interior design can help conserve energy, reduce waste and pollution and help create homes that are better for the planet, the economy and our wellbeing.

Here, we look at some of the latest stats and innovations around water consumption, lighting, and home automation that can make huge differences, helping you measure and reduce your home’s carbon footprint.

A group of influential interior design practices have today joined forces to launch ‘Interior Design Declares' as part of Construction Declares, calling on everyone “working in the design and construction industry” to adopt a "paradigm shift in behaviour" over climate change.

In the next instalment of our Emerging Talent Series, guest writer Eva Ramirez speaks with Lukas Klimcak, founder of Czech-based glassware brand KLIMCHI. They discuss the influence of his upbringing and how he has combined his family’s roots with his own signature style to create a business that is exciting and progressive while remaining true to the artisanal origins of the craft.

Good sleep hygiene isn’t just a matter of daily habits and routines. It’s also about creating the right bedroom environment to promote better sleep, consistently. This means considering elements such as lighting, temperature and of course, the perfect bed.

We all know that it’s easy to let life get in the way, but taking care of our bodies and minds has never been more important. Making sure our homes have a bespoke area to focus on our wellbeing can help us ensure we dedicate the right amount of time, space and energy on keeping ourselves in good mental and physical health.

Improving your sleep, boosting brain power, decreasing stress hormones, weight control, building stronger bodies - the advantages of physical exercise are endless. Having some equipment at home, whether it's simply a cardio machine or a fully-kitted-out gym, means you've got the convenience of being able to keep up with your fitness passions all year round. Here, we look at the latest luxury products that offer high-impact on both your body and your home-gym aesthetic. From handcrafted dumbbells to virtual cardio classes through a mirror, there's an abundance of equipment options available for your home...

Designed by Woulfe have been commissioned to completely renovate and refurbish a distinctive former Baptist Chapel, with spectacular panoramic views over the harbour and Kingsland Estuary.

Books, maps, and globes are all areas that generate emotion for any interested buyer and Daniel Crouch is keenly aware of these connections. He invests an incredible amount of time creating experiences for his clients that will invoke a reaction or recreate a memory. When his gallery exhibited at The European Fine Art Fair, Maastricht in 2019, they brought virtual reality glasses and every person felt the elation of jumping into a map of Amsterdam or Paris. It’s not a gimmick; it makes this world breathe before a viewer’s eyes, creating more excitement and evoking further thought. Daniel relishes the opportunity to bring this to viewers and either open those feelings or start making new ones.

If you can’t visit Patrick Heide at an art fair or in his space on London’s Church Street, then the best place to talk about his gallery is standing outside of a small corner coffee shop, sipping a hot drink. The gallery works extensively and intensely to promote its artists with exhibitions and art fairs all over Europe, so you can see that Patrick is used to talking about the artist’s and their medium, no matter the setting. Though he is measured and rational, it is obvious that he has true passion for his work. He cares deeply about the conversations these artworks, and specifically this medium, can instigate and consistently looks forward to inviting those exchanges.

With her background in history of art and a resume that includes Christie’s and now Nicholas Hall, it is very easy to talk to Yuan Fang about pictures. Visit the gallery’s booths at art fairs or one of their expertly curated exhibitions in New York and you will see that she is eloquent and observant. But it is much more fun to talk to her about the work that she does to bring Old Masters to new viewers. She creates projects, curates exhibitions, and works with international scholars to educate audiences on how they too can connect with images that may not be immediately familiar. Of course Yuan loves art, that goes without saying, but it’s easy to see that she also enjoys the spark of a viewer realising that they have learned something new.

A laid-back setting for summer escapes in the Mediterranean sun, this open-plan living room offers ample space for peaceful relaxation. Designed for a client who was keen to host extended family and international friends, the living and entertaining area includes different seating options, plenty of natural light and the grounding comforts of natural materials.

Freya Bramble-Carter has been immersed in the world of ceramics from a young age, communicating her thoughts, feelings and interpretations of the world around her through the tactile medium since she was a child. Under the masterful eye of her father Chris Bramble, whom she cites as one of her biggest inspirations, she has made a name for herself within the industry, garnered the attention of influential press and collaborated with the Tate Collective amongst other industry titans. When she's not firing pots in the London studio she shares with her father and fellow ceramicist, she is teaching others to do so through her group and one-on-one workshops, Freya's Clay Club.

Our annual list of new property developments across London showcases exciting real estate projects across the capital city. Whether you're on the lookout for a modern and stylish new home in London or a smart investment opportunity to add to your growing portfolio, residential, commercial and multi-use schemes are (excuse the pun) on the rise. While Covid-19 has undoubtedly put a spanner in the works across the entire global property market, the pandemic and consequent lockdowns here in the UK made a considerable impact on residential developments. With this in mind, you'll find that our top 20 list also includes 6 property developments from 2020 which have slightly postponed - but hey, good things come to those who wait. 

William McLure moves comfortably between inventive interior designer and talented artist. He works on his own properties and constructs beautifully chic spaces that fit his extroverted personality with taste and sophistication. With his artwork, he operates with the very Renaissance-era concept of being commissioned to create, but you would be mistaken if you thought that this limited his creativity in any way. He achieves inspired imagination within the parameters of what his clients request and accomplishes an unwavering balance of structure, volume, and colour.

Walk into Peter Finer’s showroom at 38-39 Duke Street, or onto one of their stands at an art fair and his son, Redmond Finer, will be your guide, transporting you to a world of courts and ceremony, presentations of royal gifts, and weapons representing honour and prestige. His knowledge is so vast and his explanations are so detailed that you will see the history of the arms and armour unfold before you. He is an exceptional combination of passionate dealer mixed with master storyteller and transmits his enthusiasm with ease and fervour.

Trying to describe Flavio Gianassi in one paragraph is impossible, especially for someone like me who has worked closely with him for almost fourteen years. I have written draft after draft of this introduction and none of them capture his dynamic personality or his curious nature. So, here is my attempt: Flavio is sure to see every museum or gallery exhibition, every auction house preview, and every art fair because he is dedicated to absorbing as much visual detail as possible. He is tireless in his pursuit of engaging with every detail so that he can recall it from his sweeping memory. And whenever someone asks me, as many have over the years, ‘where does he get his energy from?’, my answer is simple: ‘he is committed to finding beauty in all that he sees and does’.

The Irish property market has shown great resilience over the last 12 months. With prices set to rise by an average of 4% in 2021, Irish luxury property developers are feeding the demand for new homes. From modern newbuilds which will sit harmoniously alongside existing period properties, to developments being designed to emulate historic homes while maintaining all the perks of contemporary housing, there’s a lot going on property-wise in Dublin and beyond. We round up our pick of the 10 most exciting new property developments for 2021.

Bartholomew Landscaping is London’s leading landscape design and build company working on residential and commercial estates and gardens. They have been creating unique gardens and outdoor spaces since 1989. Our interior design studio has had the great pleasure of collaborating with Bartholomew Landscaping on some fantastic projects, including a Parsons Green family home’s urban garden for which we won the 'Residential Interior Private Residence London' award at the UK Property Awards 2020. We sat down with Managing Director Barry Burrows to discourse the ins and outs of landscape architecture.

Charlotte Wood of bespoke florist studio Wild Wood London sits at the forefront of innovative, seasonal floristry. Charlotte started out in womenswear fashion design before combining a longstanding love of flowers with her creativity. Since then, her successful career in floristry has seen her collaborate with luxury fashion houses and create installations for London's most iconic venues amongst countless other exciting commissions. Our interior design studio has worked with Wild Wood London several times to bring Charlotte's knowledge and instinctive eye for both faux and living plants into our luxury interior design schemes. 

From kitchen gadgets to the design books currently on Brian’s coffee table, here’s a curated list of our Managing Director’s latest obsessions. This evolving directory of quirky gift ideas, objets d’art, collectibles and curiosities will be sure to inspire a purchase, or two!

With unbeatable views over Manhattan, this modish-inspired bedroom we designed is a sanctuary of calm suspended above the city. Distinguishable areas for sleeping, working and enjoying some down-time make it an inviting place to relax, reflect and recharge. Statement furnishings include bevelled mirrors, rosewood bedside cabinets and a vintage wingback armchair that’s perfect for curling up with a book.

Designed by Woulfe is proud to be a winner at The European Property Awards 2020 for our project in Mallorca, Spain.

Designed by Woulfe is proud to be a winner at The UK Property Awards 2020 for our project in Doria Road, Fulham, London.

It is very difficult to engage in a conversation about contemporary British sculpture without examining Nick Hornby. With commissions all over the world and pieces that stand beside Barbara Hepworth and Auguste Rodin, it would be easy to understand if Nick were engrossed in the pretentious world that can capture a talented young artist.  Instead, he is calm and speaks in a rhythm that is pensive and precise; because the truth is that he is interested in the experience of reflection and learning from his audience.

Anyone who meets Calvine Harvey will immediately notice that she has a staggering attention to detail; those who know her well would say that this passion is born out of an enthusiasm for telling a picture’s story. I have known her for over ten years and have watched her study the smallest features of an image, or chased the most insignificant facts about a painting’s history, because she believes that every factor will expand a painting’s horizon into the world of the viewer. She works very hard to translate the fascination of a scene or an artist into a language that any spectator can absorb. Whenever I am viewing a sale at Sotheby’s, whether in New York or London, I ask Calvine - who is justifiably busy - to explain at least one painting to me. She always makes it a magical experience.

If you ever have the pleasure of visiting Adrian Sassoon’s stand at an art fair, you will be transported into a celebration of artists and their treatment of materials. Whenever I have seen his displays, I notice that Adrian constantly handles his artist’s pieces. It’s not that he is overly tactile, but rather that he feels responsible for, and connected to, the mediums that his gallery represents. This translates to the gallery holding a reputation for their extremely high standard. He is also one of the few dealers who brings his artists to his art fair stands because he believes that the artist should be explaining their own craft. This all illustrates that Adrian has what is, in my opinion, a rare yet treasured quality in the art world: he likes to listen.

Tom Smith of Dovecote Antiques stands out as one of the youngest dealers in porcelain and silver, but it is his encyclopaedic knowledge that hypnotises any interested party. He can recall from memory entire catalogues of famous workshops whilst making any viewer appreciate even the smallest of details.

We're ready to turn the page on 2020 and look ahead at what's to come but not before sharing a few things that will ensure you end the year on a high. Spending more time at home than ever before, we've discovered a new-found appreciation for the simple things - a delicious home-cooked meal, a comforting glass of wine in the evenings, a gripping TV show or film to provide us with a much-needed dose of escapism, and good music to blast from the speakers and dance around to when it all gets a bit too much. 

Effortless and understated interiors in this sleek principal bedroom make an impact without feeling contrived. Plenty of wood - hardwood floors and a custom walnut floating headboard - feel neutral and natural, while metallic accents and luxury soft furnishings add a touch of elegance. Multi-level lighting enhances the bedroom’s calming and soothing ambience.

Designed by Woulfe have been commissioned to completely renovate and restore Albert House, a grand Victorian residence in Dalkey, located a short stroll from the beautiful Dublin seaside.

Elspeth Pridham is a journalist who specialises in writing about interiors. She is currently editor of Studio, a magazine and website aimed at interior design professionals. We asked her advice on the best route to getting projects featured in the press.

Simone Suss of London-based interior design company Studio Suss is passionate about creating sustainable interiors which tell a story, look remarkable and are planet-friendly. Driven by her desire to create positive change within the interior design industry, Simone sits on the Professional Practice Committee of the BIID (British Institute of Interior Design). She is also a Patron of the Royal Academy of Arts and was a longstanding member of the British Fashion Council Fashion Trust.

Ossad Art Management is a bespoke registrar and art transport consultancy, working with galleries, private collectors, art advisors, artists, and interior designers. We caught up with Founder Tova Ossad, who has fifteen years of experience importing and exporting art in the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States.

Stuck for gift ideas for Thanksgiving and Christmas 2020? Find some inspiration in the luxury holiday gift guide below to spoil your nearest and dearest. We’ve curated a selection that’s fit for everyone, from lush-smelling candles to whisky tumblers that’ll make toasting to the festive season all the more chic.

Nothing evokes a sense of calm quite like natural, earth-inspired tones and natural materials. In this beachside luxury Mediterranean villa, you'll find a light and breezy bedroom that is timeless but still makes a lasting impression, with handcrafted, quilted soft-furnishings and beautifully textured wooden bedside tables. 

A conveyancing expert, Johnny Drysdale of Keystone Law acts for private clients on their Prime Central London sales and purchases. In our conversation, he discusses what to expect when enlisting a conveyancing expert for the purchase, sale or mortgage of high-value residential property. Johnny also shares his insights on how the events of 2020 have impacted the property market for UK and overseas buyers, and what we can expect in 2021. 

Dee Gibson is a British-Sri Lankan interior designer, avid traveller and first-time hotelier. She is as passionate about craftsmanship, antiques and sustainable design and founded Kalukanda House, a private, luxury villa in Weligama on Sri Lanka’s south coast in 2017.

Aiveen Daly is a multidisciplinary artist, upholsterer and designer who works with top interior designers and architects worldwide to provide specialist finishes and embellished surfaces.

Putting a project team together is no mean feat. Join Interior Designer Brian Woulfe, Lighting Designer Lucy Martin and Home Automation Consultant Tas Kyriacou to discuss creating the 'dream team'.

There’s nothing quite like waking up by the sea and having the sound of crashing waves and the smell of salty air on your doorstep. Some of us are craving the warm waters of the Caribbean, while others prefer to stay a little closer to home on the UK coastline. However far you are willing to go, here is our selection of the most intriguing and note-worthy coastal homes available to buy or rent.

Whether you’d like a weekend escape or are looking to relocate for more space and a quieter, calmer life, there are endless idyllic country properties which make fabulous investment, purchase or rental opportunities. From illustrious estates with sprawling grounds to historically owned homes boasting stunning scenery and rural retreats, here is our curated selection of the finest properties in countryside locations around the world.

A colourful and characterful London townhouse fit for a growing family, a modern and minimalistic home in sunny Los Angeles, or a sumptuous open-plan penthouse with epic views of the New York skyline. Explore our pick of international luxury properties for city living in style.

This week we visited Adrian Sassoon At The London House Of Modernity, a joint art, design and furniture exhibition from London-based art dealer Adrian Sassoon and the Stockholm-based Modernity Gallery. 

A pioneer of lighting design, John Cullen is an award-winning architectural lighting company based on Chelsea’s Kings Road. Their world class lighting schemes span the luxury residential and hospitality industries.

This chic, spacious villa in Mallorca is a classic yet modern holiday home with breezy interiors that immediately bring about a sense of calm and relaxation.

After months of working from home, DIY manicures and missed grooming appointments, most of us are in need of some serious pampering, be it a long, relaxing massage or a skin-soothing facial. To us, the ideal spa experience promotes a sense of wellbeing and relaxation. You want to feel at ease from the moment you walk in and hopefully feel lighter and uplifted upon leaving. Our curated selection of the most gorgeous spa interiors from around the world will have you wanting to book a long weekend away immediately.

Designed by Woulfe is proud to be a Finalist for The British Homes Awards 2020 for our project in Doria Rd, Fulham, London.

Panel discussion on the logistical, business and ethical factors interior designers should be considering beyond just the purchase of an artwork, in this ever-changing world of Pandemics and Brexits.

Webinar on how interior designers can be thought leaders and affect change in the industry’s campaign to deliver ethical and sustainable interiors for a healthier and happier future.

Tas and George Kyriacou are experts in sophisticated living. Their company creates efficient, instinctive and innovative experiences in the home through integrated technology.

In this online discussion, Elspeth Pridham, editor of Studio magazine, will be joined by BIID members Lester Bennett, Harriet Forde and Brian Wolfe to discuss how to grow your interior design business in a post pandemic world. 

The hospitality industry has suffered a lot throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, and while 'cook at home' kits were all the rage during the lockdowns, we're more than ready to get back out there and enjoy our favourite restaurant dishes in the company of friends. They say you eat with your eyes before a forkful touches your lips, and we wholeheartedly agree. Food aside, the interior design of a restaurant sets the ambience and has the power to define the mood and tone of your meal. Here is our selection of mouth-watering restaurant interiors that we’d visit whether we’re hungry or not.

Tom Faulkner has been designing and making striking contemporary furniture, mirrors and lighting for over twenty years. His innovative designs predominantly incorporate metal, glass, wood and stone and are handcrafted in the company’s Wiltshire workshop.

With prolonged closures and sadly some permanent ones too, Covid-19 has taken its toll on bars, clubs and nightlife in general. Places are slowly starting to peel back open, and we can't wait to head back to our favourites as well as some newbies to support these stylish watering holes. Inconspicuous entrances, moody lighting and plush soft furnishings...these bars are on our hit list because of their impressive interiors as well as their cocktail menus. Browse our favourite bar interiors from around the world, which still look stunning (albeit a little blurry) after a martini or two. Then enjoy a double espresso the morning after in our favourite cosy cafés.

The future of travel is still a bit cloudy, but that's not going to stop us from daydreaming about our next holiday and hotel stay. From the first impression which comes the moment you walk through a lobby, to the bedding you tuck into at night, hotel interiors can make or break a holiday or trip. We’ve selected the most extravagant, unique or simply beautiful hotels from around the world which in our opinion, are well worth a visit.

Hoorah for non-essential retail! If like us your doorbell is worn out and you're a bit sick of online shopping, getting back to some bricks-and-mortar boutiques is feeling pretty exciting. Retail interior design can make or break a shopping experience. Quirky layouts, impeccable use of lighting and innovative design are some of the factors which make these stores worth visiting whether you’re purchasing or just window shopping.

Serving up a good dose of escapism at a time when it’s needed the most, we’re sharing our pick of the best interiors and property shows. Makeovers, masterclasses, life-hacks and decluttering tips, there’s plenty here to inspire you.

Luckily for us, cultural institutions are opening their doors to the internet so that we can be educated and entertained from across the globe. Watch the Metropolitan Opera perform Carmen in your pyjamas, or pick up some acting tips from none other than Dame Helen Mirren - there's plenty to explore online.

Despite being sky-high, this luxury penthouse in the Hell’s Kitchen district of New York has a grounded and peaceful feel, owing in part to the neutral, earthy palette and subtle contrast of natural textures.

As London’s property market continues to grow, residential, commercial and other multi-use property developments of varying scales are cropping up across the city. From much sought after luxury new homes in the heart of town to incredible new real estate that’s putting otherwise overlooked areas firmly on the map, there’s definitely a lot to be excited about. We’ve rounded up our favourite 25 new developments in London for 2020 and beyond. 

Now that staying in is the new going out, we’ve called on some of our trusted clients and friends for their recommendations on how to make the new normal a bit more bearable. We all need a bit of healthy distraction from the news every now and again, so we’re sharing binge-worthy TV shows, books to bury your head in and podcasts to help you fill your time. We’ve also thrown in a few design pieces to make the Netflix and chilling more cosy.

As many of us have more time to spend in the kitchen, we’ve also curated a list of our favourite food suppliers, if there was ever a time to support sustainable producers and local businesses, it’s now. From farm-fresh fruit and vegetables to grass-fed meat that's perfect for Easter, these ingredients will inspire you to sharpen your cooking skills. 

This modern, classic bedroom is small but perfectly formed. Set within a multi-award winning property, the interiors we have created here show how an efficient use of space doesn’t have to mean compromising on style.

"The sumptuous style of ‘Mad Men’ reflects the current zealous appetite for mid-century modern furniture” says Maria Fitzpatrick.

When Clare Gaskin Interiors and Designed by Woulfe decided to collaborate on a room set for DreamHouzz 2018 we looked no further than the classy interiors of the late Fifties and Sixties.

Outsourcing has always played an important role in how Designed by Woulfe operates and has allowed our luxury interior design studio to undertake projects in various countries at the same time. In the run-up to Decorex 2018, Brian reached out to three industry peers to discuss outsourcing with them.

Brian Woulfe sat down with Luis De Oliveira, founder of De La Espada and host of 'A Place To Talk' podcast to discuss his work, the design process, and more.

“We can all be better designers and business owners,” say industry experts at eporta’s Design Leadership lunch. Last week, at a spectacular house in London’s Clerkenwell, eporta hosted a round table discussion with some of the most experienced and prominent voices in interior design. The candid conversation revolved around some of the most important issues affecting the interior design industry today, including fees and transparency, design leadership, sustainability and ethics. Over two-hours, 12 interior designers and architects shared their knowledge and ideas on how to advance the industry.

When I launched my interior design business I spent money on shit I did not need. I changed my services way too regularly and I was running around chasing the knowledge I hoped would make me a star!

Hosted by eporta with Joao Botelho (Casa Botelho), Clare Gaskin (Clare Gaskin Interiors) and Jenny Jones (Studio Jenny Jones)

Interior Designers Brian Woulfe, Sophie Paterson (Sophie Paterson Interiors) and Laura Hammett (Laura Hammett Interiors) join Martin Waller at the Andrew Martin showroom on Walton Street.