My Favourite Interior Designers and What They Teach Us About Timeless Home Decor
Whether you're refreshing a single room or planning a complete home makeover, having a few favourite interior designers for inspiration can make all the difference. As someone in the online homewares industry, specialising in table lamps, table linens, cushions, and decor, I find that my favourite designers bring a certain magic to spaces through thoughtful design choices, textures, and personalised touches. Today, I’m excited to share some insight into five of my favourite interior designers and what I love about their unique styles.
1. Shea McGee (Studio McGee) – The Art of Liveable Luxury
Shea McGee of Studio McGee is a trailblazer in the world of interior design, known for creating bright, open spaces that balance elegance with comfort. Her designs are ideal for those who crave both a stylish and liveable home. What I adore about Shea's work is her knack for layering textures—she effortlessly combines natural wood tones, soft linens, and a mix of metals to create visually stunning yet approachable interiors.
In our industry, this translates beautifully to incorporating versatile pieces like table lamps that add both form and function, as well as table linens and cushions in neutral shades that can easily adapt to different seasons. Shea's style encourages a mix-and-match approach to homewares that keeps spaces feeling fresh and functional.
2. Geri O'Toole (Geri Designs) – Bold, Textured Elegance
Geri O'Toole is known for her bold use of colour and texture, a talent that makes her designs both memorable and inviting. Her spaces often feature rich fabrics, intricate patterns, and a warmth that speaks of lived-in luxury. Geri’s ability to harmonise bold hues with subtle, neutral tones creates a layered effect that’s never overpowering—a skill that is invaluable when curating home decor pieces.
For home accessories like cushions and table linens, Geri’s influence shines through when we combine textures—think mixing linen and cotton, or pairing bold-patterned pieces with solid tones to achieve a balanced look. I also admire her take on lighting, where a well-placed table lamp can bring a cozy, intimate ambiance to any room.
3. Nate Berkus – Personalised, Storytelling Spaces
Nate Berkus is a master of personalisation, believing that homes should reflect the stories of those who live in them. His approach blends timeless pieces with curated, sentimental items, resulting in spaces that feel like they have evolved organically over time. Nate’s work reminds us that home decor is not about trends but about creating a legacy within our walls.
This philosophy resonates deeply with our collection of home accessories. Items like table lamps can have a sculptural or vintage appeal, and incorporating unique homewares brings personal history and a sense of belonging into any room. Following Nate’s approach, I love suggesting decor pieces that hold meaning, like one-of-a-kind cushions or heirloom-quality table linens that make any space feel truly unique.
4. Ohara Davies-Gaetano – Organic Elegance with an Artisan’s Touch
Ohara Davies-Gaetano’s work is rooted in a love for nature and artisanal craftsmanship. Known for her ability to incorporate natural elements and textures into sophisticated settings, her designs exude warmth, intimacy, and artistry. What I admire most about Ohara’s style is how she brings an organic feel to her interiors, layering luxurious fabrics, natural stone, and rustic wood for spaces that feel both refined and grounded.
For those of us in the homewares industry, Ohara’s approach is a reminder of the beauty of handcrafted pieces. When it comes to table linens, she would likely choose linens that have a soft, lived-in feel, while table lamps could feature handcrafted details that make each piece unique. Ohara’s style teaches us the value of artisan-quality home decor and embracing natural imperfections to create a welcoming, one-of-a-kind space.
5. Emma Sims Hilditch (Sims Hilditch Interiors) – Country Charm with a Sophisticated Twist
Emma Sims Hilditch brings a refreshing take on traditional, country-inspired design. Her aesthetic combines classic British style with a modern twist, featuring a cozy blend of textures, refined antiques, and rustic charm. Emma's spaces feel warm and inviting, often using soft pastels and natural elements to create an effortless, lived-in look.
Her style perfectly aligns with the trend of “modern rustic” decor that’s becoming so popular. To bring her vision into our own collections, I lean towards home accessories like table lamps with vintage-inspired details, cushions in earthy hues, and table linens that feel both elegant and homespun. Emma’s work reminds us of the joy found in creating spaces that feel warm, comfortable, and filled with character.
Bringing It All Together: Finding Inspiration in My Favourites
Each of these designers brings a unique perspective on how to make a home both beautiful and liveable. Here are a few key takeaways to infuse their signature styles into your own decor:
- Layer Textures: Mix soft linens with rich fabrics and earthy elements to create warmth and depth.
- Prioritise Personalisation: Choose decor that tells a story, adding character through unique pieces.
- Embrace Minimalism: Focus on high-quality, timeless items that enhance the space without overpowering it.
- Add Cosy Lighting: A well-placed table lamp can be both a design statement and a mood-setter in any room.
- Blend Traditional and Modern: A touch of the past paired with contemporary details makes for a timeless space.
By blending these design philosophies with our curated collections of table lamps, table linens, cushions, and other homewares, we can help anyone create a home that feels both stylish and meaningful. Whether you’re channeling Shea McGee’s airy elegance or Geri O'Toole's bold textures, these designers offer a world of inspiration that celebrates both beauty and practicality. Happy decorating!