Let’s start from the beginning! Tell us a little about the journey that led you to where you are now.

After becoming a single mother, I had to reevaluate my life! Fashion isn’t 9-5 and time is not your own in that industry. I had, at that point, renovated 3 of my own projects — which ignited my love for interiors, problem solving, and a deep connection to colour. I took the leap and created my design firm Côte de Folk. I have built the business from the ground up over the last 6 years and I’m looking forward to continued growth and the expansion of our services and products.

You’re known for your unexpected yet timeless style — blending vintage and repurposed pieces, playful details, and classic touches. How would you describe your design ethos?

Our design ethos is deeply collaborative. We work closely with our clients to create homes that reflect their personality, values, and family life. We approach each project with thoughtfulness and intuition, always aiming to design spaces that feel layered, lived-in, and meaningful.

We love mixing old and new, always reimagining pieces through restoration and reupholstery. We aim to always prioritize playfulness and storytelling in our work, as we want each space to spark curiosity, feel personal, and evolve naturally over time.

You have such a talent for repurposing vintage or found pieces. How do you balance breathing new life into an old piece while preserving its original character?

We love repurposing pieces that already mean something to the client, and pride ourselves on the ability to do so thoughtfully. Often the client will have pieces they love, but are unsure how to make them work or are convinced they’re beyond saving. There’s something really satisfying about breathing new life into a piece of furniture and giving it a second chance with the help of some imagination, fabulous fabrics, or texture. It’s also the more sustainable, conscious choice. Instead of buying new, we’re reworking what already exists. This not only preserves personal history, but also reduces waste and supports a more thoughtful and responsible approach to our design process.

Tell us a bit about how you find inspiration. What factors have played roles in the development of your design style and evolving aesthetic?

I think my fashion background helps to bring a fresh point of view. I often look to the movies for inspiration — anything from Italian gangster films to period dramas. I am aware that my style continues to evolve. We have a saying in the studio, “If we can’t find a tearsheet to fully explain to the client what we want to achieve, then we’re onto something!” It means we’re creating from instinct, which is always a good place to start.

You’ve seemed to accomplish the impossible with your home in Kent, England — gut-renovating a four-story historic Georgian townhouse in just 18 weeks (and on a strict budget!). How did you decide which original details to preserve and where to put your unique twist?

Every floor, ceiling, and wall in the house was either replaced or restored, including a new roof. It really was a full gut-renovation to breathe new life into the building. We preserved everything we could, but the unique twists often came from the challenges we faced along the way.

I always say, the ‘problem’ usually becomes magic! Thinking on your feet during a build and solving issues as they come up often forces you to become more creative. Those unexpected solutions can end up being the standout features of the home. What initially feels like an obstacle can become the most memorable or defining element of the space.

What is a design-related trend or element you’re loving right now? And not so much?

I’m loving Art Deco-inspired shapes and furniture, especially used as standout pieces. There’s something timeless about the geometry and curves that add a touch of glamour.

Something I’m not loving lately?! Smart Homes — Voice-activated lighting and drapes, and over-the-top sound systems. I like the process of turning a light on and off and drawing the drapes at the end of the day.

What’s next for you? How do you hope your work continues to shape the industry and inspire others?

I’m excited to be launching a fabric line, alongside our Chubby Range of furniture, which will be available online from September! Moving forward, I want to keep my work original and playful. I love pushing those creative boundaries. I’m also committed to deepening my knowledge of architecture and all aspects of interior design because there’s always so much more to discover. Most importantly, I want to inspire others to truly care about their environments and the spaces where we live. Our surroundings impact how we feel every day! I want to encourage people to recognize that connection and make intentional choices to ensure their homes are places that nurture our wellbeing and happiness.

Favorite place to visit to spark inspiration?

Heckfield Place.

What’s always in your styling kit?

Scissors, Blu-Tac, and a steamer!

Favorite space in your home?

My bedroom. It’s my sanctuary and has beautiful views of the ocean.

Current go-to interior paint color?

Frankie & Creami Colour by Edward Bulmer

A design “rule” you always follow — or always break?

I always follow the rules regarding flow. How you move through a space matters. Consider what you can see from windows and doors and where they lead. Views and connections between rooms should feel natural and inviting, making spaces easy to navigate and enjoy.

And rules that I break? That list is much longer! Rules are there to be broken, IMO.