Q&A with Katharine Pooley, London Interior Designer

I think finishing touches instantly elevate a room. These can be anything from beautiful curtain tie backs and trimmings to throws and cushions. The Hermes range of interior fabrics stocked by Dedar includes some beautiful mid-size patterns—perfect for statement cushions.

Working on my book with Assouline, which is released this autumn, and completing an office move!

Originality of design, seamless finish and intricate detailing.

I have always loved my silver antique bowl from one of my travels to Burma—it makes the perfect vase for housing special orchids. The engraving is so spectacular.

I wouldn’t say there’s one particular style, but I’m incredibly inspired by travel, having visited [many] countries. However, for me, the starting point is always to listen to the clients and work with them throughout the journey. I travel with them and absorb their tastes. It is very important, from the start, that I work closely together with the client.

No two projects are the same as I take inspiration from each client’s individual style and personality as well as taking influences from each property’s unique location. I also love working with our trusted suppliers on each project and discovering new ones.

A dream of mine has always been to create a beautiful safari lodge in Africa. I have enjoyed many safaris and the landscape is unsurpassable in its beauty. I would be inspired to use a palette of natural tones, fabrics and textures in a luxurious yet timeless combination. De Le Cuona fabrics have an amazing African-influenced range with beautiful textures, including their sumptuous sheers and signature washed linens which would work perfectly in the scheme. I would also love the opportunity to design a yacht or another private jet.

Sculptural furniture because there are some really interesting designs available at the moment. In our boutique, we stock a number of console style tables. One of my favourite pieces is the Earl Console featuring a gold leaf frame and antique mirror top.

Ivory or any other neutral colour because you can create a lovely, layered scheme by mixing textured fabrics and raw organic finishes.

With accessories. I love cashmere throws and silk cushions as well as statement bowls and vases.

David Hicks

Practical. Having children helps me with design, as it’s often about understanding the demands of real life and choosing things that are going to be durable.

I think the key here is to decorate your home with things that mean something to you whether that’s family photographs, an amazing piece of artwork or sculptures.