“The details are not the details. They make the design.”

Charles and Ray Eames’ furniture designs, mostly from the 40s, 50s and 60s, are still as popular as ever. If you don’t immediately know what they are, Google them and you will see what I mean. They look simple but their glory is in the details that shout quality and have resulted in their timelessness.

Interior design is the same; the details can make the design feel either harmonious or jarring, make the space work or fall short and, if you get them right, will make your heart sing.

All that glitters

This jewel of a bathroom used to be the coal bunker of a Victorian terraced house. Sitting beneath the front path and pavement, the previous owners had snuck in a bathroom, but it lacked glamour - and head height. So some digging, tanking and hand cut Moroccan mosaic later saw this ensuite emerge, feeling as far away from a bunker as you can get. The smallest spaces always need the most planning and attention to detail so that everything fits, functions, and looks fabulous.

More than just a runner

If you are a regular reader you will know that, wherever possible, I like to use products from suppliers whose design and manufacturing are routed in craftmanship; where it is possible to speak to the designers, see the factory and understand their story . You may well be familiar with Roger Oates runners. But you may not know that they are designed in Malvern and made on Hattersley looms in Devon previously used for making Harris tweed. It takes a whole day to create the warp for one of their designs; each one is then meticulously threaded by hand onto the loom, giving the design its signature stripe pattern. Now that is more than just a runner…..

Images courtesy of Roger Oates

Texture - Don’t forget it

What colour do you recommend? What style of sofa? These are questions that interior designers are often asked. But texture - that is the most overlooked consideration and is way up there in terms of importance. It adds depth, personality and visual interest and helps balance out the other elements in the room, stopping a scheme from feeling flat. Imagine a room that was all shiny silk - or all rustic wood. We use more than just our eyes when we respond to a space, sound and touch are just as critical.

One for the New Year

London Art Fair returns to the capital from 21-25 January 2026, bringing together a curated selection of leading Modern and Contemporary galleries from the UK and around the world. Now in its 38th year, this is the one that I make a point of attending every year and always recommend to clients. Or arrange to visit with them. The quality and variety of the art and the galleries is perfect for both new and experienced art buyers.

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