This month, I’m starting all Cross Platform Media titles with the same message. I want to open these issues by wishing you all well. I do hope the consequences of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic have not struck too hard; whether they be health-related or, indeed, financial. Of course, it’s too early to evaluate the extent of COVID-19’s impact across the globe; however, it’s clear to see there has been a considerable sea change in the way we operate in our day-to-day lives. And with many of us sheltering inside with limited access to the great outdoors, biophilic design has never been more critical for interior designers.

With many designers adopting working-from-home processes – much like the majority of the nation – the impact confinement has on our mental health and wellbeing will undoubtedly be palpable within the coming weeks. As a result, we will all be looking to introduce a sense of nature into our indoor environments to boost spirits via biophilic design strategies. Looking expectantly beyond COVID-19, there will unquestionably be a greater appreciation for outdoor spaces, quickly followed by the fusion of elements from natural habitats within indoor areas – whether they be residential or commercial. One such method – available to everyone, regardless of profession – is colour, as mentioned by Kathryn Lloyd, Colour Specialist at Crown Paints, in this month’s issue. We’ve talked to Kathryn about colour psychology, biophilia and looking beyond off-whites and greys for today’s homes. Turn to page 33 to read her advice on specifying colour for both period properties and new-build show homes and learn more about the link between colour and wellbeing.

Moreover, as many of you are out of the office, and spending time researching, we’ve interviewed not one but two designers this month. Firstly, we talk to Simon Goff, Founder of East London-based rug dealer FLOOR_STORY, about the tale behind his trademark, and find out more about the high-profile designers he has collaborated with. Turn to page 22 to read more. Meanwhile, our regular Insight feature stars dynamic duo Justin Melican and Laura Kiely, Co-Founders of Bloomsbury-based Block 1: Design. Find out about their careers as interior designers by turning to page 39.

I hope you enjoy this edition. Don’t forget, you can also access all of Inex’s features and product inspiration at your fingertips via the magazine’s state-of-the-art app. To download your version free of charge, simply search ‘Inex-online’ on the App Store or Google Play.