Meet Lorraine

Interior design is constantly evolving, moving, and adapting to the times. While that’s one of the things I love most about it, I think it’s equally important to set and follow a few principles – that’s how people get to know and recognise you as a designer. So without further ado, these are the ‘rules’ (so to speak) that have steered my career, and continue to guide my work on a day-to-day basis.

​

INTERIORS MUST STAND THE TEST OF TIME

When it comes to creating spaces, timelessness is key. I don’t want my rooms to date, so I make sure I’m not a slave to trends. Instead, I aim for classic yet chic, elegant and refined decors.

INTUITION IS IMPORTANT

I am a firm believer in following your instinct, as it’s almost always right. I love design, and I respect the process and everything that comes with it. There are so many decisions to make on any given project, and I’ve tuned into (and relied on) my gut feeling for nearly all of them.

TREAT EVERY PROJECT INDIVIDUALLY

In my interior design world, there is no such thing as a ‘cookie cutter’ approach. I start each project with fresh eyes, fresh ideas, and thoughtful consideration of the client. I’m responsible for designing people’s homes and offices, so I need those spaces to represent them as much as possible. Of course, my overall objectives remain constant: every space needs to be warm, inviting, luxurious and comfortable, and reflect the heart and soul of the client.

STAY AUTHENTIC

In an industry where beauty reigns and appearances matter, it’s important not to get caught up in the nonsense and stay true to yourself. This kind of authenticity extends to the products I use as well. I aim to use raw, real materials and fabrics wherever possible.

DESIGN IS A TEAM SPORT

As an interior designer, I am in charge of the nuances of a project, but it is by no means a solo mission. I work in close collaboration with clients, architects, builders and supplies to ensure our visions become a reality. My clients come first, and I take the time to listen to their needs, learn their tastes, and produce something that matches the brief.

TEXTURE, TEXTURE, TEXTURE

Regardless of what I am working on, texture is a signature feature in all of my designs. Along with attention to detail, layering has a huge influence on the look and feel of a space. Texture engages the senses, and decorative accents add flair and charisma to any room. In other words, accessories matter!

IT’S OKAY TO MIX AND MATCH

In both my residential and commercial designs, I carefully mix and match high quality modern, vintage, and custom pieces. I am extremely fond of history, tradition, and of course, timeless interiors, but I enjoy the effect of combining pieces from different eras and cultures. At the same time, designs must be harmonious and cohesive. I have a great deal of respect for designers, whether they come from the furniture, architectural, or homewares arena. To name a few, I love Hans Wegner, Charles Eames, Frank Lloyd Wright, Philippe Starck, and Arne Jocobsen. Their designs are timeless and still being used and enjoyed today in interiors worldwide.

QUALITY IS KEY

This one is pretty straightforward. Don’t skimp on quality – otherwise, it will show. And you’ll find yourself being forced to redecorate in no time at all. My motto is: “Do everything once, properly and you will find you will spend less in the long run.”

BALANCE FORM AND FUNCTION

As a designer, I am to put together spaces that are not only visually pleasing, but also practical. I understand that these are not showrooms – they are people’s homes, meant to be lived in, loved and used, and as such, they need to be functional, whilst still being beautiful!