4 minute read
Hamptons Cirencester interview with Emma Barber of ‘eb Interiors’
Why should people appoint an interior designer instead of managing their own project?
Put simply, we know what we are doing and love doing it! As with so many things these days, the internet can only take you so far. Conveniently, you are able to find plenty of ideas, hacks and inspiration for pretty much anything, but how on earth do you pull it all together? I love how DIY interior design is made so obtainable through so many mediums, allowing you to recreate that perfect little nook worthy of the ‘grid’, however is that ‘perfect’ nook perfect for you – the individual? This I believe is where we, as Interiors Designers, are essential in the design process. Not only do we ensure your vision is brought to life and looks amazing, but we also ensure it works in every way for each and every individual. We all work so differently; we are different in our wants, needs and how we live our lives from day to day. And it’s our job to listen to those requirements, pick out the important details, and incorporate them seamlessly into the design… all within the budget, time frame and ensuring it’s done right first time.
What type of projects get you most excited?
This may sound cheesy, but every single one, and that’s why I love my job! I could be working on the same types of rooms, at the same time, but for different clients and each design would be totally different. Which is what makes it so exciting. It never gets stale as I get to challenge myself and my team with every brief (no matter how big or small), learning new things each time – which can influence the next project.
Who or what have been your major influences and role models?
The client is my influence. I have always been aware of how a space can make an individual, couple, family or group feel. I very much have them at the centre of each of my designs, ensuring every decision made in each and every detail is centred around them and their needs.
I have never been one to go along with a trend – don’t get me wrong, I do love a trend, but I don’t let it dictate my designs – and I let my clients know that. They are living in the space, so it needs to tick their boxes not a trend’s at the time.
In developing a style for a client’s property who takes the lead or is it a collaborative effort?
I would say it’s a collaborative effort. When I first meet with a client, it’s my opportunity to get to know them (and them to know me) and understand their way of living and how they tick from day to day. If they have a favourite style, I always love to know, but many times client don’t know exactly what they do love, and that’s my job to find out, whether it be via: a piece of furniture, a favourite colour or even clothing – it’s amazing what these unrelated items and a one-to-one chat can divulge about a person. The development of a style is very much a team effort… I’m a designer who likes to work alongside my clients and make them part of the process, allowing them to discover and work out exactly what they like and why with my help. That way the design works on every level.
Is there a project that you are most proud of?
As mentioned, I have absolutely loved being part of so many projects from bars, restaurants and offices to the more intimate residential projects. But, at this moment in time I am most proud of the new eb Interiors showroom based in The Wool Market, Cirencester. We have created an inspiring and relaxing space allowing our clients to feel very much at home. We find this helps people in expressing their creativity and style. The showroom has proven the perfect space for just that, whether it be during our initial free 1 hour consultation or collaboration further down the line.
