The Design Files featuring the design duo behind Jeffreys Interiors

The Design Files

FEATURING GEORGINA FRASER AND JO AYNSLEY OF JEFFREYS INTERIORS

You took the reins from the original owners of Jeffreys earlier this year. Can you tell us a bit about the takeover and how it all came about?

GEORGINA: It’s been a long time in the making – Jeff and Alison were approaching retirement and realised that they would need to put a succession plan in place for the business. Jo and I had both worked at Jeffreys for a couple of years by that point and felt that together we could take it forwards while retaining the DNA of the existing business. Because the takeover has been planned and come from within, it feels natural.

Is your approach different to the previous owners?

JO: When Jeff and Alison moved the business to our current location in Stockbridge 16 years ago, they developed a strong identity of a place where people could come and explore the showroom to find special and unique pieces. We strive to do the same, we want people to come into our showroom and find things they fall in love with – real conversation starters.

How would you describe your own signature interiors style?

GEORGINA: I like a classic, elegant design style with quality fabrics and beautiful craftsmanship. Although honestly, my Pinterest is an absolute kaleidoscope of styles and colours – I’d need about three houses to be able to fit in everything I love. JO: I’m a maximalist through and through, I love classic design, but mixing colour, pattern and texture is so appealing to me. I often accidentally find myself dressing like the schemes I’m working on. They really get under the skin.

What is your favourite colour palette?

GEORGINA: I love oranges – not an Irn-Bru orange (although that has its place!), but more glowy, autumnal burnt oranges. JO: A reflective, sparkly rainbow – give me all the colour!

What has been your most exciting Edinburgh project so far?

JO: We’ve had lots of exciting projects here in Edinburgh. Recently we completed two townhouses on Ann Street – the bones of the houses were similar but inside they are polar opposites. Each is beautiful in its own right and perfectly suited for the owner, we feel like they really encapsulate our motto of “your taste; our talent” where we work to elevate our clients’ wishes.

What is the best dressed hotel or Airbnb you’ve visited?

GEORGINA: I love the Fife Arms in Braemar. The attention to detail is phenomenal and they’ve been so authentic and inclusive of the community in their designs. There are sketched portraits throughout depicting people who live in the surrounding areas. It’s a really lovely place.

What is your favourite room in your own home?

GEORGINA: We’re both in rented flats so nothing is exactly as we would choose, but they are very much ‘home’. My favourite space is our living room which is bright, airy and filled with plants. I set up my desk there and it’s a great space to work, and relax, in. JO: I’ve recently moved into a new flat and it feels really homely already. The living room opens out into a small private garden and my puppy, Inca, just loves it – it’s a whole new world for him!

What is your one essential for stylish, comfortable modern living?

JO: Invest in a great sofa. I have one from Charlotte James, made here in Edinburgh and it is well made and SO comfortable. If you get the best you can afford, they’ll hold their shape, be more comfortable and serve you better in the long term than a quick ‘interim’ purchase.

Is there an iconic piece of furniture which you would love to own?

GEORGINA: I would love to have some De Gournay or Fromental wall coverings in my house – they’re absolute works of art and elevate any space.

What would you say is the best housewarming gift you can get someone?

JO: There’s something about crisp, white bedding. It works in every room and during a busy and stressful moving period it’s great to sink into fresh, clean sheets.

If your house was on fire, what is the one item you’d save?

GEORGINA: It would definitely be the artwork and sentimental items picked up on our travels. A bonkers cat poster from the Kattenkabinet (Cat Museum) in Amsterdam is jumping to mind… it’s ridiculous and I love it! JO: Definitely my antique carved sofa, although I might have some trouble getting it out!

How can people revamp their homes for the new season without spending a fortune?

GEORGINA: Keep it simple by changing up cushions and adding cosy layers with textured throws. Also adding mood lighting will make a hugely positive change to your space.

For more information, visit www. jeffreys-interiors.co.uk or pop into the showroom at 8 North West Circus Place, Stockbridge EH3 6ST.

© All Photography by ZAC and ZAC