The Story Behind Elicyon: Creating Authentic and Personalised Interiors

Which elements of your profession do you enjoy the most?

In our profession, what I enjoy the most are the moments of creative discovery and collaboration with our clients. Each project presents us with a fresh canvas, brimming with opportunities for joy and excitement. Our approach is deeply rooted in storytelling, and we strive to craft unique experiences that resonate with our clients on a profound level. From the outset, we work as closely as possible with our clients, fostering a journey of shared exploration and self-realisation. The early stages of the project are particularly gratifying, as we often uncover the textures, materials, and colour palettes that will weave together architectural principles with my passion for design and decorative craftsmanship. These intricate layers culminate in elegant and personalised interiors that not only reflect our clients’ visions but also evoke moments of genuine connection and fulfilment.

What has been your most memorable career highlight from the past year?

I always say that our best project is the next one but this last year, we have completed and worked on some of the most exciting studio projects to date. These range from an incredible show apartment in the historic OWO building in Westminster, to a stunning home in the newly developed John Nash-designed Regent’s Crescent buildings. Our recent work has really allowed us to show our creativity, producing truly stunning interiors. One of the most memorable phases during our work on The OWO apartment was our research into the history of the building, when we discovered the incredible story of the covert messaging system that was devised there during WWII and was used by Winston Churchill himself. We wanted to pay homage to the rich history of the building in our designs, and were able to tell our researched story in a nuanced way through multiple references to paper across the apartment, for example via prints and pressed flowers.

What are your favourite types of projects to work on and why?

My favourite types of projects are the ones that allow me to create something authentically personal to the client’s taste, lifestyle and aspirations. Ever since my days as an architect, I have always enjoyed collaborating closely with the client, bringing their individuality to the project and creating spaces that evoke a particular feeling that is personal to them.

What are the most challenging aspects of working in interior design?

One of the most demanding aspects of being an interior designer is the relentless pursuit of excellence in everything we do. In our studio, we embrace each challenge as an opportunity for growth and innovation. I often say that our greatest challenge is the next one, continually driving us to push boundaries. As a designer, director, and entrepreneur, I set high standards for myself and for my team, fostering a culture of continuous learning and self-improvement. We engage in rigorous self-reflection, constantly evaluating our work to extract valuable insights and refine our approach. This unwavering commitment to excellence fuels our determination to consistently exceed expectations and deliver exceptional results for our clients.

What do you wish you knew before working in the field?

Looking back, I feel fortunate to have had the experience of working as a professional architect before transitioning into interior design. In architecture, the responsibility to provide answers, insight, and feedback to contractors, builders, and engineers is paramount, emphasising the importance of balancing creativity with practical project management and client communication.

While my architectural background provided valuable insights, I was previously unaware of the significant influence of legislation, policies, and conflicting stakeholders in architecture. However, my training at the Architectural Association in London instilled a strong sense of idealism, which I have carried forward into my career in interior design. I truly believe it’s crucial for designers to possess a deep understanding of both the artistic and logistical aspects of our profession, maintaining a strong sense of idealism throughout.

If you could give one tip to aspiring designers, what would it be?

My tip for aspiring designers is to have an innate interest in people and the way they live, or want to live, in their homes. Understanding clients’ individual needs and aspirations is key to creating successful and meaningful design solutions.

How do you see the interior design industry evolving in the year ahead?

In the next year, I am predicting a continued growth in the already apparent trend towards more personalised and sustainable design solutions. There will be a stronger emphasis on craftsmanship, materiality, and artisanal techniques, as well as a growing awareness of the environmental impact of design choices.

What does being an SBID Accredited Interior Designer mean to you?

For me, the SBID accreditation is significant as it reflects my continued commitment to high standards and ethical practices in the field of interior design. It provides recognition of my expertise and helps to establish trust and credibility with clients and industry peers alike.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.