Creating beautiful, timeless homes where clients can truly enjoy life has been the simple goal of Kent-based interior designer, Emma McColl.
As owner and designer at Oliver Henley Interiors, Emma established the business last year, and takes great pride in creating designs that are one-of-a-kind and perfectly tailored to the homeowner and their family.
Providing her design services across the county, whether it be a single room design or whole house, we catch up with Emma who aims for longevity in her work, is inspired by nature and her surroundings, and has provided some helpful tips to bear in mind when designing your living space.
How it all began, was interior design something you were always interested in?
'I’ve always loved architecture and interiors, even as a child. I was always interested in how my friends’ parents decorated their homes. I especially love period properties, as they have so much character. I would say that my nan inspired my love of interiors, as she always kept a lovely home. She didn’t have much but what she did have was classic and beautiful.'
When you established the business and the services provided?
'After gaining experience within a property company and getting involved in their property renovations and designs, I decided to study interior design and established my own business in 2023. My services include interior design consultancy, full room design and holiday home design.'
What’s been a particularly favourite project? As well as a not so favourite?
'One of my favourite projects is the restoration of a stunning Tudor building. It has its challenges, but I love the history of the building and I can’t wait to see it restored to its former glory. I would say my least favourite project to date would be building my own home! It is harder to design for yourself, in my opinion.'
Your thoughts on being sustainable? Is it important for the future?
'I think it is important to think about sustainability in your designs. If it’s possible I would prefer to reupholster furniture rather than replace it and use reclaimed wood in my designs. This reduces waste and adds unique character to your space. There are also some great sites like eBay and Marketplace, for finding second-hand treasures. I like to design for longevity, I don’t like to replace furniture when it’s not necessary.'
Who and where you gather inspiration from?
'I find inspiration everywhere, whether it’s a restaurant, a trip abroad, or even a stay at an Airbnb. I never really switch off in that regard, even when I’m walking outdoors, I find natures colours inspiring.'
Favourite part of the job?
'There's nothing more satisfying than delivering a design that is not only beautiful but also practical and comfortable, and seeing the client happy. Watching a concept develop from the initial idea into the completed space is also incredibly satisfying.'
More about Emma
Her home… 'It’s a mix of traditional and contemporary styles. I’ve designed it to be both functional and timeless for our busy family life. I am obsessed with clay and antique pots, which add texture and charm throughout our home.'
Her hobbies… 'I like relaxing in the evenings with a good book. Living not far from the coast, my weekends are usually spent walking along the seafront with my family and our beagle, Ollie.'
She’d take a peek around the home of… 'Emma Sims-Hilditch’s! Her style is so elegant, and her interiors always look so inviting.'
Emma’s top tips to bear in mind when designing your living space.
* Avoid trends – while trends are good for inspiration, I would say it’s best to avoid them unless you are happy to replace them in a year or so.
* A quote that resonates with me: 'Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be beautiful or believe to be useful' - William Morris.
* You don’t always have to buy new! There are some great upholsterers around and great sites for shopping second hand pieces locally, like marketplace. Mixing old and new in your interior can create a look that has unique character.
* Always try before you buy – whether you are buying paint or a new sofa. It is always best to try before you buy. Buy paint testers or go to a store and sit on the sofa before committing.
* If it’s possible, live in the space for six months or so before renovating. Then you will learn how you feel comfortable living in the space before committing to any big purchases.
* Think about your wardrobe – what colours do you wear a lot? Do you like pattern? Usually, what we wear is a good indicator of what colours and patterns we would like in our homes.
* Add texture. Texture is so important. Even if you just want to use neutral colours in your room, if you do not add texture, it will feel flat. Adding texture through materials and patterns adds depth and interest to the space.
* Go big with table lamps. Small table lamps next to a large bed for example can look disproportionate. Consider scale.
* Try not to be too matchy-matchy! I am not a big fan of matchy-matchy design. I like to mix things up a little. So, for example, I don’t like sofas to be the same. I would opt for two sofas in different styles or two sofas in the same style but different fabric.
* Investment items in your home. When you are renovating, it is best to invest in particular items, such as quality carpets, sofas and flooring. They are used so much; they need to be robust. You can then save on accessories. You do not always need to spend a lot of money on accessories.
* Put storage high on your list. There are so many clever storage solutions nowadays. A cluttered home is a cluttered mind. We all have such busy lives, you want your home to work for you, keeping your life organised.
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