Out & About October 2017

OA interiors

You can have any c o l o u r ... Emma Dweck is on a mission to rid the interior design world of grey. She talks to MARGARET McDONNELL about the latest trends and why designing your dream home starts with getting the basics of building work right first

E mma Dweck knew from age of 16 that she wanted to enter interior design after enjoying doing a room plan for a friend. Since then she’s worked with top-end home builders, but decided to set up her own business Dweck Designs in 2009 when she was pregnant with her son. Emma started her career in designing for high-end show-homes and with a knack for creating plush schemes that helped developers sell houses quickly, it’s no wonder that she is one of the best-kept secrets in interior design, with celebrities and the well-heeled lining up to work with her. Her signature style is elegant, clean and refurbishments on farmhouses, eight-bedroom mansions and country homes, but Emma is passionate about adding colour and great design to homes of all sizes. The West Berkshire-based designer loves pushing the boundaries of her clients’ expectations and creating bespoke rooms that enhance their lives. something unique, functional and tailored to the individual; an environment that will bring out the best of them and enhance their life and way of living. “A lot of clients say to be ‘I’d never have chosen it, but I love it. “Anyone can do a safe scheme, but you want the room and the design to really sing. “The latest trend is for these muted tones such as grey, black and stone to be replaced with much more colour. “There are plenty of other ways of adding interest. It sounds counter-intuitive, but you can have a neutral palette by using colour. Personally, I mix precious metals a lot and see them as the equivalent to adding jewels.” Emma is unusual in that she is more than an interior designer; she has extensive knowledge of the construction industry as well, allowing her to seamlessly balance between the design process and giving advice and planning on any simple and looks a million dollars. Recent projects include complete “Good design is not just about making something beautiful, it is about creating

structural modifications that may be required. “I like to get involved at an early stage with the architect and client and help supply the right builder. “I can help with everything from plastering, screeding, plumbing, electrics, flooring plus fireplaces as well as soft furnishings and decorating.” This approach means that customers simply sit back and leave Emma to produce a detailed chart with exact timings and costings. “Offering the full project management service is important to me because often, before

Trends for next year: 1. Grey has had its day. It hasn’t gone, but it is becoming warmer in tone rather than the cool greys and mixed with richer tones such as copper, brass and gold. You’ll find colours like navy blue and plum standing in as the neutral palette. 2. Colour is back! Think vibrant patterns and almost tropical tones of teal, aqua, fuchsia and yellows. 3. There will be a trend away from glossy kitchens and towards more wooden, crafted and freestanding units.

you can start with the furnishing and design, there are fundamental elements such as electrics and plumbing that need to be addressed first. “It’s been so satisfying to interact with people to help create the perfect home. “I loved designing show homes but I’d mostly been working in a back room.

“Now I really get to be hands on and spend time with people gaining an insight into what they need and it means I can design bespoke rooms that people love. It’s truly life-changing to have good design. “As a designer you must be fully in tune with the people you work for and intuitive to their needs – that’s what I love most about what I do and why many clients ultimately become good friends. I work with the very best tradespeople in the area to ensure the highest standards. “My aim is to create a home that makes you smile, and an environment that is hard-working as you are, but with the ability to soothe you when it’s time to wind down. “I try to make the whole experience fun and engaged – after all, your home is your life and your place of sanctuary. So do the project and make it happen!” To find out more visit www.dweckdesigns.co.uk or contact emma@dweckdesigns.co.uk; tel 07796 272386

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