Fresh, gentle and honest.
The sentiments at the heart of the work of Paula Morrison, an Interior Designer who believes that homes are the foundations of our lives and where our values, emotions and memories are forged. Everything that shapes us as humans and connects us to the world starts in the home; this is the principle that has shaped Paula’s approach to interior design. We are captivated by the fluidity of Paula’s design work, the perfect combinations of texture, patter, layers, light and flow.
The way she captures a feeling of intimacy and harmony in her schemes is quite magical. We absolutely had to sit down with Paula to find out more about her work, how she got started in design, her style evolution and a brilliant insight into how she finds inspiration for each new client project… .
Introduce yourself and what you do
Hi there! I’m Paula and I am the founder of Paula Morrison Interiors, an Interior Design Studio working in and around Surrey and South West London. .
Is this what you always saw yourself doing?
Not really, ha! I studied Languages and Literature at University and so my background was more on the Linguistics than the creative side. However, I remember when one of my friends (now an accomplished architect) enrolled at Uni for her architecture degree, I thought to myself ‘I should have done that, but now I’m enrolled in the Language and Literature degree course’. After graduating from the School of Languages in Argentina and moving to London, I worked as an Interpreter and Translator for the media industry, which I loved. But when I had children I decided to step back as it was a very highly demanded job. Once my children got a little older, I decided not to get back to the language world but to train solidly in design. And I have had no regrets ever since.
As an interior designer, how would you describe your style?
My style is a blend of tradition and contemporary flare. I like fresh and airy ambiences, but I have huge respect for traditional and classical style. So, I will always start my designs with a timeless classic look and incorporate modernity to them. However, I have to say that although my style is a modern classic style, I adapt to the clients, because at the end of the day, it’s about them.
Has your design style changed over the years?
It has. It maintains a degree of classic elegance, but it used to be more minimal than it is now. I think style evolves and we evolve with it. It’s not about the trends but the versatility of how we use materials and texture to mark or form the particular style of our designs.
What are your biggest interior style principles?
Harmony or balance is to me, the key to a well-executed design in combination with rhythm of colours, style, textures, and patterns. There is no point in choosing the most amazing furniture pieces or stunning art if they overwhelm a space and their textures or materials compete with each other. It’s a question of carefully blending, mixing, incorporating and with this, a naturally accomplished balance is achieved.
Where do you find your inspiration for client projects?
I find that lifestyle and fashion inspire me a lot. I always check what my clients are wearing because I know that helps me see what gives them confidence and comfort and how I can guide them to get out of their comfort zones. And I also spend time looking at their ornaments and art to see what makes them feel at ease at home and how we can incorporate their passions into the designs.
What’s your trend prediction for interiors over the next year?
Although I tend not to follow trends that much, I feel like heritage pieces and antiques will play a more and more highly important role in incorporating legacy and culture into, for example, a modern building.
What are your favourite/most treasured interiors pieces?
I love comfortable armchairs with a nice floor lamp and a side table. That’s my comfy look.
What is your go-to podcast?
I love history so I’ve been listening to History’s Greatest Cities.
What current Hudson Home product do you love?
Art Print - Road to Versailles
Grey Marble Link - Such a versatile item
Ticking Stripe Bolster - you can't go wrong with a lumbar!
Kali Diamond Cream and Sand Rug
Acacia Grater - Always love a grater
Name 3 Hudson Home products you would feature in an upcoming project.
The Art Print Road to Versailles - This art piece is the sweetest and can definitely feature when I’ve finished with one of my Southwest London projects. My Clapham project will include a new kitchen and I’d love to feature these two lovely products.
My Clapham project will include a new kitchen and I’d love to feature these two lovely products - forest marble board and gold spoons.
What can’t you live without?
A mid-afternoon shower! If I’m working from home and feel like a quick walk won’t be enough to refresh my mind, I have a quick shower and I can get back to the desk.
What's next for you?
We have projects in South East London, Oxshott, Clapham at the moment so I’m very excited about this year!
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