The world as we know it has undoubtedly changed in the past month; at least for the time being. Waking up in the morning feels almost surreal because things we normally take for granted are not an option at the moment – like going to your morning meeting or having lunch in your local café.

We have learnt so much in the past week. We know that the only way we can keep ourselves, our loved ones, neighbours and our amazing key workers safe and healthy, is by staying at home and doing what we are told. And it isn’t easy – we all love to be independent, to come and go as we please, to visit our family whenever feel the need to do so. So, the current situation is putting a strain on us all not just financially but also mentally.

It’s so uplifting to see how small businesses and freelancers are quickly adapting to the situation, giving us the tools to look after ourselves and keep our minds and bodies busy while we tackle the virus. There are online yoga and exercise classes, meditation tutorials, helpful lists for novice gardeners and even live art classes you can follow.

And I believe that interior design can also be a tool to keep your sanity and make you happier while staying at home.

It is no secret that I am a huge believer that interior design, when done well, can be magical. One of the biggest downfalls of the 21^st century is that everyone is in a rush; we run around all day in our offices and workplaces, raising children, looking after our elderly, sometimes having multiple jobs at the same time – which is why I believe that we all need a space where we feel safe after we’ve closed the door behind us. This should be your home; your place of calm and peace, your sanctuary.

Right now, we are spending more time within those 4 walls than we have ever done. And I have a feeling that by the time we have left COVID-19 behind us, working from home will have become a way of existing for a large part of the population. Thinking about your home might not be on top of your list right now, but this could be the right time to consider what changes you can do to improve it. And we might just be able to help you with this.

The benefits of Remote Interior design

• Better time management due to no on-site meetings
• More to the point – the initial consultation is more detailed and focused on your requirements, which in turn helps me in getting the design done quicker
• You can do it in your own time – there is no external pressure for things to be done
• Easy to read floorplans – you give me the measurements of your room and existing furniture, and I will make sure everything works together, fits nicely and is in the best position to maximise the space
• Easy shopping experience – the shopping list will show you exactly what to buy and where to buy it from without having to look around in a million shops

Interior design can be, and a lot of the times already is, done remotely. Most of my clients love the idea of that personal touch, of getting to know each other so that I can really tailor the design to their personalities and way of life. My approach to remote design is no different than working with you face-to-face; it’s only that instead of me sitting next to you chatting about the project over a brew, I will be doing it virtually from the comfort (and safety) of my home.

One-room or small renovations

You might have decided to start off with the room most used in your home. Maybe the layout doesn’t work anymore because your family has grown; or the colour scheme you have chosen a few years ago makes the room too dark and not enjoyable during the day. Chances are, you only want to do cosmetic changes and you are prepared to do most of the work yourself.

Our one-room design package ensures that you receive all the help you need; from a virtual consultation to inspirational images, moodboards, furniture layout and a shopping list.

Larger (multiple rooms, full size remodel or extension) projects

One thing many people fail to understand is that a big project comes with a lot of planning. If you are going to work with a designer, make sure you get them on board as soon as you start thinking about your project. A designer brings a whole new skill set to a project; they are trained to look at a building from a different perspective. Use this perspective next to your architect and builder’s and you will make the most of your project and reduce the chance of costly mistakes by tenfold.

Planning a large project takes time – sometimes over 12 months. Don’t be put off by being on lockdown and use this opportunity to do your research. Look for an architecture firm that just feels right, speak to a few contractors and construction companies and start chatting to the designer you would like to work with. There is so much to do before building work can start, and as silly as it sounds, being on lockdown is a great time to start.

Next week I will show you an example of a remote design project we have worked on in London!

Reach out to us if you would like to see our e-design packages, or if you’d just like to go through your questions and concerns. We are known for being friendly and approachable and we would love to help!

IF YOU HAVE A PROJECT YOU WOULD LIKE US TO GET INVOLVED IN, WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU! WE WORK ALL ACROSS THE NORTH-WEST INCLUDING LANCASHIRE, CUMBRIA (WINDERMERE, AMBLESIDE, KENDAL, KESWICK AND SURROUNDING AREAS), RIBBLE VALLEY, CLITHEROE, MANCHESTER AND CHESHIRE. FOR REMOTE E-DESIGN SERVICE THERE IS NO LOCATION RESTRICTION.