Design Journal: Embracing Three Worlds – Graphic, Fashion and Interior Design as Interchangeable Skills

When I look back on my creative journey, it feels like a natural progression - a path of embracing new challenges, new forms of expression and new ways to tell stories through design. My career began in graphic design, where I learned to communicate ideas through typography, color and visual composition. It was here that I first understood the power of design to convey emotion and create meaning and these principles would follow me into everything I did next.

After spending time immersed in the world of graphic design, I felt a pull toward something more tactile, more personal. Fashion design offered me the opportunity to work directly with materials, to shape form and function and to create pieces that people could wear and interact with on a daily basis. It was a world of texture, color, and fluidity - where the lines between art and practicality blurred and where every design decision was rooted in both creative vision and functional need. Fashion taught me how to balance beauty and utility, how to work with different mediums and how to translate an idea into something that could be experienced in a deeply intimate way.

Again, I felt the urge to embrace another dimension of creativity. I wanted to move beyond clothing and explore the spaces people inhabit. Interior design was a natural next step - bringing together my love for aesthetics and my desire to create environments that inspire and nurture. As I shifted into interior design, I realized that the core principles from both graphic design and fashion still applied: color theory, texture, proportion, balance and storytelling. Whether I was designing a logo, an outfit or a living room, the same ideas of harmony, impact and emotional resonance guided me. Now instead of designing something wearable or viewable in print or on a screen, I was designing something people could live within - immersing them in the experience.

Today, I embrace the fluidity between these three disciplines. Graphic design, fashion design and interior design may seem distinct but for me they are deeply interconnected. The creativity that I apply in one area seamlessly flows into the others and I find that my skills in each discipline enrich the other. The way I approach composition in graphic design influences how I think about layout and flow in interiors. My understanding of textures and materials from fashion design informs the tactile experience of a space, from fabrics to finishes. Each practice, whether working with pixels, fabric or furniture, enhances the way I see the world and the way I design for it.

What excites me most is how these disciplines continue to inspire and influence one another. For example, a pattern I created for a fashion collection might inspire the design for a custom rug or a brand identity I developed could inform the visual language of an entire interior. It’s not about picking one path; it’s about embracing all of them and using the interchangeable skills I’ve developed to create something greater than the sum of its parts.

I never saw my path as a series of distinct careers but rather as one continuous, evolving journey. From graphic design to fashion to interiors, I’ve embraced each new challenge with the same curiosity and creative spirit. I continue to believe that the beauty of design lies in its adaptability, the ability to cross disciplines, explore new mediums, and weave together ideas in unexpected ways.

As I move forward, I’ll continue to embrace the fluidity between these worlds, knowing that every project I take on - whether it’s designing a logo, creating a fashion collection or curating an interior space is part of a larger creative story. It’s a story that is never truly finished and one that I’m excited to continue embracing.

Design Journal: Celebrating Before and After Transformations

There’s something truly special about sharing before and after photos of my interior design projects. It’s not just about showcasing the transformation - it’s about celebrating the journey from potential to possibility. When I look back at the original state of a space, I see more than just empty rooms or outdated décor; I see a canvas waiting to be reimagined. The process of taking a space and infusing it with my signature style is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. Each project tells a story, and the “after” is always a reflection of my passion for creating spaces that are elegant, eclectic, bold, playful, joyful, and timeless.

It’s incredible to see the contrast between the before and after shots. There’s a moment of pure delight when you realise that the vision has come to life and the transformation has captured the essence of what was once just an idea. What started as a collection of concepts and mood boards, colors, textures, patterns and materials has evolved into a space that feels like it was always meant to be. There’s magic in that moment and it's impossible not to smile when I see a space come together so seamlessly.

For me, interior design is all about creating spaces that are alive - spaces that feel both timeless and unique. I want every room to feel like it has a sense of history and character, while also reflecting a playful and eclectic sensibility. It’s about mixing bold colors with sophisticated textures, combining vintage with modern and finding those joyful moments that make a space feel truly special. My approach is always mindful, ensuring that every choice, every piece of furniture, every light fixture, every fabric serves a purpose and contributes to the overall vibe of the room.

There’s an undeniable joy in seeing a room come together with that balance of playfulness and elegance. The juxtaposition of bold elements alongside timeless designs creates a dynamic energy. I love when a space feels both calming and invigorating and when the design invites you to experience it in new ways. Whether it’s a gallery wall of unexpected art, a striking color scheme that adds life and personality or a carefully curated mix of textures, each detail in a room has been chosen to create that perfect harmony.

And then there’s the fun part - seeing my clients’ reactions when they first experience the space. That’s when I know I’ve succeeded in creating something truly meaningful. It’s one thing to see a space transformed through my eyes but to witness the joy and excitement in the faces of those who will live and work in the space is the true reward. It’s a reminder that design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating environments that inspire, comfort and enhance the lives of the people who inhabit them.

I’m always thrilled to share the before and after photos of each project, because they speak volumes. They’re a visual record of the hard work, creativity, and vision that goes into every design. More than that, they represent the heart of my design philosophy: spaces that are beautiful, eclectic and full of personality, while also remaining timeless and enduring.

The transformation isn’t just about what’s visually different, it’s about what’s now possible in the space. Each transformation is an invitation to experience the space anew, to feel something deeper than just the look of the room. It’s a reflection of who the space belongs to, and how it can evolve to support the people within it.

As I look through my portfolio of before and after photos, I’m reminded of the power of design - not just as a career but as a way of making the world around us more joyful, beautiful and meaningful. It’s a reminder that with a thoughtful, creative approach, any space - no matter how challenging or ordinary it may seem at first—can be transformed into something extraordinary.

Design Journal: A Bespoke Tailor’s Studio with Bold Elegance

As an interior designer, there’s always a thrill in transforming a space but when the project is for a bespoke tailor, it takes on a whole new level of excitement. The challenge here was not just about creating a beautiful, functional environment - it was about designing a space that felt as luxurious, unique and precise as the custom suits that are crafted within it. This tailor’s studio was a blank canvas, with curiously shaped windows and ample natural light but it lacked the character and elegance that matched the artistry of the craft. So, I set out to reinvent it - a space that would feel timeless, refined and just a little bold.

The vision for this studio was rooted in deep, rich colors and textures that evoked sophistication, creativity and luxury. The primary color I chose for the space was a striking, deep green - rich, enveloping and full of life. This hue instantly brought a sense of opulence to the room, setting the stage for a design that balanced traditional craftsmanship with contemporary flair. It was a color that echoed the lushness of nature while maintaining a sense of refinement.

To create visual intrigue, I chose a wallpaper that was both bold and beautiful - featuring intricate illustrations of tigers and peacocks in vibrant tones. The exotic pattern added a layer of whimsy and drama to the space, while also nodding to the rich heritage of textiles and embroidery that plays such an important role in tailoring. The wallpaper became one of the standout features of the studio, drawing the eye and setting the tone for the entire space. Its boldness was balanced by the sophistication of the deep green walls, creating a dynamic interplay of colors and textures.

Furnishings were chosen with the same sense of contrast - luxurious yet comfortable, with a nod to vintage style. The space is anchored by sleek leather chairs, their rich brown tones complementing the deep green and bringing a tactile warmth to the room. These chairs, with their clean lines and soft patina, serve as the perfect blend of comfort and style, offering both elegance and practicality.

Sputnik-style lighting was used throughout the studio, bringing a touch of modern flair that feels both fresh and timeless. The bold, geometric fixtures with their golden finish add a layer of glamour and sophistication to the space while offering plenty of light to showcase the fine details of the tailor’s work. These statement lights add just the right amount of energy to the space, setting the tone for both creativity and focus.

One of my favorite features of this studio is the inviting bar area, which became a natural focal point for the space. The bar, set against a backdrop of wood-grained fluted panels, offers a tactile and textural contrast to the more polished finishes around the room. The wood detailing brings warmth and a touch of craftsmanship to the space, while the bar itself is perfectly appointed for welcoming clients, offering a moment of relaxation and conversation amidst the creative process.

The finishing touches are all about details - everything from custom brass hooks for hanging garments to the carefully curated antique trunks and sewing tables that honor the craftsmanship and history of tailoring. The antique trunks, with their weathered leather and brass accents, provide both function and nostalgia, while the sewing tables - vintage pieces with intricate detailing are both a visual and historical tribute to the tailoring craft.

In transforming this tailor’s studio, I aimed to create a space that wasn’t just about design; it was about elevating the experience of creating custom, bespoke pieces. The space needed to feel as unique and personal as the garments that are crafted within it. The combination of deep, rich green, bold patterned wallpaper, luxurious leather, and dramatic lighting created a space that is both opulent and welcoming - perfectly reflecting the artistry of the tailor’s craft.

This project was a perfect reminder of why I love commercial design: it’s about capturing the essence of the client’s work and infusing it into every corner of the space, from the layout and color palette to the smallest details. For this bespoke tailor, his studio is now not just a place of work, but a testament to his passion, his history, and the precision with which he creates.

I couldn’t be more proud of how this space turned out - it’s a place where tradition meets modernity and where every detail, down to the smallest antique, enhances the experience of creating something truly bespoke.

Design Journal: A Cozy Cabin with Timeless Charm

There's something so enchanting about a cabin - a place where rustic charm meets the tranquility of nature. But when that cabin is infused with antique adornments and the perfect balance of modern comforts, it becomes more than just a retreat; it becomes a story.

Walking into this cozy cabin, you're immediately struck by the warmth of the wood, the rich textures of timeworn furniture and the subtle nods to history that seem to whisper stories of the past. The space is furnished with an array of carefully selected antiques, each piece with its own history and character. There's a delicate balance between old and new here - where the beauty of traditional craftsmanship meets the ease of modern amenities.

The cabin’s interior is anchored by large wooden beams, their rough-hewn surfaces a testament to the building’s origins. The walls are adorned with antique mirrors, framed paintings and heirloom tapestries, each creating a sense of curated antiquity. These pieces offer texture and depth, contributing to the intimate, lived-in feel that is so key to the atmosphere of a cozy cabin.

Yet, while the antiques provide the cabin's soul, modern amenities ensure that comfort isn't sacrificed for style. The kitchen, for instance, might feature a stunning antique sideboard used for storage, but it’s also equipped with sleek, high-end appliances tucked away discreetly, ensuring the convenience of modern living. The combination of honed soapstone countertops and antique cabinetry creates a sense of timelessness where rustic charm and functional beauty coexist effortlessly.

A key feature of this design approach is the furniture. The living room, for example, is anchored by a pair of well-worn armchairs that might once have graced a grand parlor, their fabric faded by time but still offering unparalleled comfort. They sit alongside a contemporary coffee table with clean lines, creating a dynamic yet harmonious contrast. Throw in a vintage rug, and you have the perfect place to curl up with a book, as the crackling fire in the stone hearth provides warmth and atmosphere.

In the bedroom, an antique bed frame takes center stage. Its ornate carvings and aged patina transport you to another era. Paired with modern, cozy bedding - luxurious linens and soft blankets.This marriage of old-world elegance and modern comfort turns the bedroom into an inviting retreat that feels both timeless and of-the-moment.

One of my favorite aspects of this design is how the antiques aren't just decorative - they tell a story. An old wooden chest at the foot of the bed could have once traveled across continents. A set of antique silver candlesticks on the mantle, gifts handed down through generations bring a sense of continuity and connection with the past. These artifacts elevate the cabin beyond a mere vacation home; they make it feel like a living museum of personal history.

Of course, no cabin is complete without the warmth of textiles. Antique quilts and throws drape over furniture, adding a layer of softness and tactile comfort. The earthy tones of the fabrics - deep burgundies, golden yellows and faded greens complement the natural wood and stone throughout the space, enhancing the cozy, inviting atmosphere.

The design ethos behind this cabin is simple: create a place where past and present coalesce in a meaningful way. It’s a reminder that with a thoughtful approach, we can marry the beauty of antiques with the convenience of modern life. And when done right, these pieces don’t just coexist - they enrich each other.

At its core, this cabin is more than just a place to escape; it’s a sanctuary where the past meets the present in perfect harmony. A place where you can relax, breathe deeply, and truly feel at home.