Tell us how it all started. What attracted you most about being an interior designer?
I studied textile design and did my work experience as part of the course at David Hicks in their product design department. Once I graduated I applied for a full-time job and after about 2 years gradually moved over into the interior design department. I was initially attracted to this because CAD was very new and it seemed to open up a whole new world of possibilities. By background in pattern and colour was a massive help to working in the interior design world.
What projects are you most proud of to date?
A new build teak junk in Hong Kong, An estate near Stroud in the Cotswolds, An estate in Invernesshire overlooking Loch Ness and of course my current one (don't all designers say that!) a new build house overlooking the marshes in North Norfolk.
To be honest, I'm not really a fan of trends in interior design. When I started my business 20 years ago, trends hardly existed so I had to decide what my style was. Trends in fashion are OK as clothes are more transient, but interiors last a long time! The first project I did is still exactly as I left it and it hasn't dated simply because it was not 'on trend' at the time. What I prefer is a personal and sometimes more eccentric statement. If I had to pick a trend at gunpoint, it would probably be what The New Craftsment are doing at their space in North Row, Mayfair.
I think I really love the detail most. Working on cabinetry detail drawings, electrical designs is a strange and solitary task, but I really enjoy it. I also love the day or days of installation when the furniture is set out. Sometimes its sad and a little hard to hand over your work to a client, but it has to be done!
I've always been influenced by 30s / 40s European art deco (Jean Michel Frank and Ruhlmann) but I am known for working in the area between contemporary and traditional, so the style of the house I'm working on will massively change the look I go for.
My job in North Norfolk is very exciting. I'm working on a much more 'raw' look and the intention is to make the house look less designed. Less matching. more textural and without any of the grand luxe flourishes that some clients want. It's for a long-term client, so a lot of trust is involved!
If you're interested in working with Charles, head over to his website.