الجمعة, 01 أيلول/سبتمبر 2017 00:00

Taking the plunge – Inex meets Samantha Morphew of Morph Designs

    After studying art and design at Central St Martins followed by more than 10 years in the interior design industry, including working for well-known high-street brand Laura Ashley, as well as having experience at high-end interior studios in London, Samantha Morphew decided to take the plunge to work for herself and set up Morph Designs in 2013.

    Can you please provide us with a description of your professional career?

    I studied art and design at Central St Martins and then my career lead me to work for Laura Ashley, along with experience at interior design studios in London. With over 10 years’ experience of working in the industry, I decided to make the jump and work for myself. Morph Designs launched in 2013.

    What inspired you to become an interior designer?

    I have always been aware of space and colour and how they can affect your mood. From the days of being a student and studying art, I was fascinated by how a painting can evoke so many feelings. I’m a magpie when it comes to textures and fabrics. By combining working with colour, textures and fabrics – the door opened into the world of interiors!

    What has been your greatest source of inspiration throughout your career?

    I find most things create inspiration for me. When you have a creative mind it’s always there working away!

    How do you approach your projects?

    I love to meet new people and it’s a real buzz when you start a project! Through the first meeting I listen to my client’s needs and requests. We normally go on a conversation journey whilst I make design suggestions along the way. Normally, you can hit the little gems on the head of what the client loves and then you know the design direction to take.

    Who is your favourite interior designer and why?

    At the moment, I am loving Abigail Ahern. I love her skill of using dark colour palettes for her room schemes with pops of quirky items. House plants are my current retail weakness. Abigail has a wonderful collection of faux plants and floral arrangements on offer.

    Would you say that you have a design style? If so, how would you describe this style?

    My interior designs vary as I design very much for my clients and their needs.

    What do you believe is the biggest challenge for today’s interior designers?

    Staying fresh with your designs and not churning out a repetitive look. When you are creative, it’s great to try new designs and provide something a little different and outside the box.

    What has been your biggest accomplishment to date?

    Designing the homes of a few famous people which unfortunately I can’t say who they are! But it was a great experience.

    Can you talk us through your concept for the Danbury project?

    The brief on this project was all about colour and to display the client’s personality.

    How do you personally feel that you fulfilled the brief for the Danbury project?

    The room’s design worked with strong lagoon teals, mustard and royal blue, through the print on the curtains, which displayed a peacock feather design to the wallpaper we added. This room certainly displayed the client’s colourful personality.

    Have you witnessed any recurring requests from your clients?

    The hotel boutique vibe seems very popular and recently my clients seem to be happy to explore colour. Clutter-free homes with all items having a home also seem to be a recurring request – storage is the key.

    Do you have a preferred colour palette that you enjoy working with?

    Grey is my magnolia.

    Can you please talk us through the brief that you received for the Beaulieu Park project?

    The brief for Beaulieu Park was for a smart, sophisticated hotel-vibe sitting room. The clients wanted it to be formal but still welcoming.

    How do you personally feel that you fulfilled this brief?

    When we completed this design I was so pleased with the outcome. The room space was a real treat to work with due to the high ceilings. The clients were so pleased with the outcome and this has now led to designing the rest of their home.

    What do you believe is of utmost importance when it comes to interior design?

    Listening to your clients’ needs and then taking them on an enjoyable journey with the whole process. Being there throughout, from start to finish, and making sure each step of the way is painless for the client.

    What advice would you offer to those that are considering a career in interior design?

    Study and get qualifications; there are a lot of self-proclaimed interior designers out there. Also, work experience at a design studio is very useful and puts all the studying into action.

    What do you believe is the biggest challenge for newly-qualified interior designers?

    It’s a competitive world out there with each year churning out more qualified candidates and possible competition. Keep trying and never give up. The tortoise always wins.

    Do you have any favourite suppliers for your interior schemes?

    We have accounts with so many suppliers, but I do have a love for Matthew Williamson and his new current collection.

    What can we expect to see from you over the next year?

    Lots of new completed design schemes; some featuring key season looks and trends.

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