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THE SOUTH WEST
UK BLACK BUSINESS GUIDE 2020-21
Different by Design
Words by Lauren Dei Photography by James Balston
Creative Director of interior design studio Do South speaks about what it takes to run his creative business, shares how his heritage informs his work, and lays out some key advice for the next generation of design-loving entrepreneurs.
“I
’ve always felt inspired to shape the environments around me,” says Freddie Oke, Founder and Director of Do South Design in Crystal Palace, South London. “The way I communicate my vision helps others to tap into their own. Then, next thing you know, we’re having a full brainstorming session. That’s how I like to work with my clients – I love helping them to make the changes they want to see, and they love the way I bring their ideas to life.”
Do South sprung from an idea Freddie had back in 2009. Pulling together his resources, he researched the furniture and interior design world like crazy, claimed an unwanted, boarded-up newsagents and birthed his dream – a design studio, shop and showroom where walk-in customers and professional clients come to have their homes and workspaces transformed. Now building a team across both the in-store and digital platforms, Freddie is moving his studio into a new space of growth and brand
