Q. How long have you worked in the furniture industry?

A. I’ve been in the furniture business since 2003, and over the years I’ve had the chance to work with all sorts of brands, including Selfridges and Harrods.

Q. When did you join Barker and Stonehouse?

A. I joined the company in 2015 as a Sales Assistant at the Battersea store. I still remember walking in for my interview and just falling in love with the showroom – it’s set in an old building that used to be a candle factory, and it has such a quirky look. During my time there, I worked my way up to become Assistant Manager, then Store Manager, before moving into a more creative role in 2020.

Q. What does your role involve today?

A. It’s really varied, which definitely keeps me on my toes! I work closely with James Barker to source and buy new products, look after all 12 displays across our stores, support our brilliant team of visual merchandisers, help choose products for photoshoots and trends… plus a lot more!

Q. What’s your favourite part of the job?

A. I love bringing new product into the business. From spotting a trend to buying the right pieces, and then seeing how customers respond. Whether it’s a unique dining table or an entire bedroom furniture range, it’s always exciting.

Q. What’s your favourite interior style?

A. I’d say a heritage style such as Mid-Century Modern is the perfect look to re-invent for 2025. The mix of classic, timeless design with a fresh and contemporary feel works well in all sorts of spaces. I'm also a big fan of dark wood and earthy colours, and the chestnut tones are very 'now'. It's just a really good style to experiment with as it's so versatile. There's an authenticity about it. Charming and chic, yet cosy and inviting.

Q. Where do you find your inspiration?

A. Mostly on buying trips. I get to visit suppliers and trade shows all over the world, and I come back feeling so inspired. Social media is also a great place to find fresh ideas.

Q. What’s your particular strength or specialty?

A. I’ve always had a good eye for laying out spaces – knowing how a room should flow and where to place furniture to make the most of every inch. That’s what naturally led me to where I am now, I really thrived when it came to styling the displays in our Battersea store.

Q. What interior design rules do you swear by?

A. I always say careful curation means every piece looks considered. Grouping objects and accessories by themes is one way to start, perhaps colour is the theme, or shape, maybe texture – having a common link means that the overall look is seamless. Whether it’s your living room or your garden, thoughtful placement also makes all the difference. Play with scale, large and small objects ensure variety.

The addition of personal influences is also key. Look out for local vintage markets where you can inject an interesting antique find to your 'treasure trove'. And don't underestimate the power of good lighting – it changes everything and can warm the look up or cool it down.

Q. What’s your current favourite range/product at Barker and Stonehouse?

A. We spend so much time sourcing unique global finds and developing designs that respond to the way our customers live, from sumptuous sofas to clever storage solutions.

Our latest grid tables are a masterpiece of multipurpose furniture, acting as the most perfect pop of colour and style indoors or out, great for this seasonal weather where we are split living in this latest heatwave!

Coming up for autumn we have some new feature cabinets in an array of natural wood finishes that really hero the customer's favourite accessories and books, or act simply as a home to hide away clutter whilst looking beautiful!