Name: Freya Reed
Company: Milc Property Stylists
Position within company: Senior Interior Designer
Website: www.milcstyle.co.uk
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I graduated Chelsea College of arts with a first-class honours in printed textile design, specialising in homeware. After travelling far East-Asia I returned to London to take up a position at high end design company Louise Bradley in Kensington. Working under the style director this is where my passion for interiors developed as I integrated myself into the London luxury market.
This is where I decided to further my technical studies as I studied a diploma in Interior Design at KLC school of design.
Shortly before graduating I began working at Milc in 2017 where I have built up my portfolio of works and experience.
How would you describe your personal design style?
My personal style is refined eclectic, I seek one of a kind pieces from across the UK to create bespoke schemes that merge classic with contemporary. I lean more towards the maximalist design to amplify spaces and make them memorable. I try hard to be mindful of the eco impact of design, to try and source from local suppliers and artisans.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
Across the globe, from travels, new cities and places. I am drawn to brighter colours and abundance of natural light, so if I’m anywhere warm I’ll be sure to be taking snaps of different architecture and design to incorporate elements into my work.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I feel we are taking a swing back towards maximalist design, but also being savvy with space planning. As the planet becomes more populated and cities overcrowded, properties are becoming smaller, with clever design every inch of space can be utilised for family living and tidying away. In saying that more often than not clients are looking for experimental design, where we utilise bespoke design and never-seen-before focal pieces, with the introduction of bolder colours and fun.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2019 and beyond.
- Eclectic interiors
- Texture and pattern
- Eco fabrics & materials
- Biophilic interiors
- Mixed materials
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Ergonomics and interaction! Always carefully consider the end use of a space, the walk around room and how furniture interacts with one another.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
Very important, to celebrate the best of the industry, the exposure that it provides and being able to congratulate one another to stay at the forefront of the design industry. Having the opportunity to meet and converse with other companies and designers is also great.
What projects are you currently working on?
Two show homes up in Birmingham for an exciting big launch and tendering for some big refurbishment works down in Sussex.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
To keep atop of the ever evolving design trends, to keep designing with a forward-thinking attitude and produce some exciting and completely individual schemes for our clients.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your favourite holiday destination?
California
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
The Madonna Inn, Saka Maka Café, Blame Gloria
Your favourite book, film & song?
Anything by Ken Follett, Jaws, Lift me up by Moby
Your favourite food and drink?
Anything vegetarian with halloumi, Gamma ray beer
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Relaxing with yoga and a cycle ride
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
Psychologist
Anything else interesting?
If I had a superpower I would be able to speak every language in the world!