Learn more about our new Interior Designer Gina Clarke and discover her thoughts on the biggest trends for commercial spaces.
Can you tell us a little about your experience as an interior designer?
I studied interior design at Falmouth University, which taught me how to think creatively and outside the box. We were also really encouraged to develop our own unique design approach.
After university I completed a residential project in Cornwall before moving back home to East Anglia, where I ended up working in domestic ventilation for three years. Naturally, when the opportunity to work for Layrd Design came up, I jumped at it! It’s great to get back into interior design and use some of that pent-up creativity!
Did you always aspire to become an interior designer?
Interior design always stood out to me. My family always recalls stories of me moving my bedroom furniture around in the middle of the night! I probably rearranged my room 10 times over the years - I love freshening up a space and enhancing it.
Why did you want to work for Layrd Design?
I love Layrd Design’s emphasis on sustainability and well-being because these are values that match my own. It’s really nice to work for somewhere that shares your beliefs. Layrd Design also has a really fun team and the right work culture for me.
Where do you get your inspiration?
Anywhere and everywhere! I draw a lot of inspiration from nature and its forms. I think there’s something almost unnatural about us living in constructed boxes, so it’s really important to bring aspects of nature into design. I also get inspiration from places I’ve visited, books I’ve read and even dreams! Inspiration really can strike at any time.
What interior design trends are emerging right now?
Creating well-being spaces is really important. There’s a recognition that spaces need to serve us, not just physically but also emotionally and psychologically.
Companies are having to do more to tempt us to come back into the workplace and making spaces that benefit us emotionally is a big part of that. This is feeding into the emphasis on biophilia and the need for a connection to nature. This is leading to more curved forms and the use of natural materials, such as wood, cork and bamboo, as well as earthy tones. To me, this is giving off something of a 70s vibe, which I think is connected to that need for comfort that we are now beginning to recognise.
Sustainability is also another hugely important trend and we’re seeing lots of furniture being upcycled.
What are some of the challenges clients face when it comes to interior design for commercial spaces?
Every commercial space has its own problems and challenges. Clients can find it difficult to create a space that works for them and their requirements, which is where we as interior designers come in.
Budget and space are also the two biggest limitations. Creating a design with longevity can be challenging too - it’s all about finding the balance between being trendy and timeless.
What are you looking forward to once you’ve settled into the team?
I love that every day is different! We’ve also got lots of events lined up for next year, which is exciting. We are planning more Future Spaces events and are attending the SME Awards soon. I’m really looking forward to it.
Want to reimagine your commercial space?
Speak to Gina and the team at Layrd Design about your commercial interior design project on 01223 952992 today.