Interview with Donnie Wales
In this installment of our HH Interviews series, we want to introduce you to the gorgeous Donnie Wales. Donnie is an exquisite interior designer that we have had, and continue to have, the pleasure of working with on a number of projects.
Donnie’s style is so aligned with our classic, uncomplicated and timeless design so we’re thrilled with the selection of imagery she has allowed us to share with you in this interview.
Read on to get to know Donnie and find out more about her work, her process and what her top picks from the Hudson Home collection are…
Photography by: Anna Stathaki - annastathaki.com
Introduce yourself and what you do
Hi, I am Donnie the founder and lead designer at Donnie Wales Interiors.
Is this what you always saw yourself doing?
No! When I was younger I had my heart set on becoming a lawyer because I was obsessed with Ally Mcbeal ha!
How would you describe your design style?
Classic and casual. I am not a fan of overly formal and stuffy interiors.
Has your design style changed through your career?
I think it's stayed consistent overall. I prefer to take on clients whose interior styles vary and interpret their styles in ways that stay true to my design ethos.
What are your biggest interior style principles?
Texture, texture, texture I know every designer goes on and on about it but without mixing textures your interiors will always feel flat
Photography by: Anna Stathaki - annastathaki.com
Where do you find your inspiration? And how does the inspiration process start for each new project?
Instagram and Pinterest mainly. I wish I could say it was from museums and long walks in nature but that would be a lie. I always ask my clients to curate a Pinterest board of images that catch their eye and from there a design direction for the project is formed.
What’s your trend prediction for interiors over the next year?
Fringed furniture, ticking stripe upholstery, darker woods and rust and terracotta tones are here to stay.
Who would your dream client be or dream property to work on?
I have been so lucky and all my clients have been dreamy. I think when you first meet it's obvious if you will be a good team or not. Renovations are stressful and you form a strong bond over the months you work together. I miss them when it's all over.
Can you share some advice for aspiring interior designers just starting out?
INVEST IN PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY. Photos of your work are your resume and a professional photographer will capture your projects to a standard you are not able to yourself. I have always worked with Anna Stathaki www.annastathaki.com and her work behind the lens is pure magic!
Photography by: Anna Stathaki - annastathaki.com
What is your go-to podcast?
True Crime only please.
What are you reading at the moment?
The Hearts Invisible furies by John Boyne
What current Hudson Home product do you love?
Solange Jug, Seagrass Bowl, Epsom side cabinet and I am not sure I am allowed to say but I have seen a sneak peak of the new sofa and armchair range and it's amazing!
Name 3 Hudson Home products you would feature in an upcoming project.
The soon to be launched sloped armchairs, beaded chandelier and koni marble lamp have been selected for upcoming projects
What can’t you live without (completely non interiors related!) fun rather than serious!
Forest Feasts dark chocolate covered almonds - thank me later!
What's next for you?
I am currently working on 9 projects of which 3 are entire home rebuilds/renovations. One client's style is modern and minimalistic and I am excited to interpret her style with a DWI spin. Unfortunately with bigger projects come longer lead times (not helped by current supply chain issues) so bring on 2023 when we can finally share what we have been hard at work on.
You can find Donnie Wales here:
Photographer, Anna Stathaki:
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