She recently launched her first full concept store in Barker and Stonehouse, Newcastle upon Tyne and we caught up with her at the exclusive launch event to find out more about the range, her inspirations and her top tips for budding interior designers.

B&S: “So, this is your first concept store, right here in Newcastle, and you have plans to open a series of 50 to 60 more international stores stocking your own range of super stylish furniture – is the world set to go Hoppen crazy?”

KH: “Certainly not. I’m not creating this range to make a lot of mini-me’s. For me, it’s so important that a home should be a sanctuary, so I’ve created the range to give people a way of making homes that are entirely theirs.

“Design has been a passion of mine from an early age, and what I have tried to create, based on influences from the East, is a very simple design system that’s actually a way of life.

“My furniture range is there for people to buy one piece, or more, and then put their own identity on it.”

B&S: “You are renowned for your love of a neutral palette – does everything have to be taupe, cream, grey or mink?

KH: “No, but you have to start somewhere and neutral is the perfect beginning for any room design, starry or otherwise.

“I do use colour – we’re introducing some reds, purples and other colours into the collection – but neutrals are a great starting point, although colour does add wit, warmth and drama to a room.

B&S: “So do you think your range has something for everyone? Not just the Beckhams?

KH: “Definitely, because the range is infinitely versatile. I’ve designed an initial 50 pieces, which can be put together in about 800 combinations, with more to be launched soon”.

“Furniture should be simple and plain – the secret is in what you put with it, like when you are getting dressed.

“Think of a woman’s navy suit – you can wear it with a white t-shirt and sneakers, or high heels and diamonds. The accessories dictate the overall style.”

Kelly’s own style is glamorous. Famed for her cascades of toffee-shaded hair, she is in her early 50s but looks younger, taking care of herself with meditation and exercise.

Good habits are important in a life as busy as hers - Kelly’s visit to Barker and Stonehouse, Newcastle, was part of a grueling schedule that sees her diary full to the end of the year.

“I can look in my diary and see what I’m doing every day until December,” she says ruefully, but her busy life is a reflection of the international esteem in which she is held. Her concept stores will spread that reputation still further, and Barker and Stonehouse feel privileged to be hosting the first of them.

Kelly approves of the Barker and Stonehouse Newcastle store layout too. We asked her what she thought of the store.

“It was great to walk in and see how beautifully displayed my furniture was,” she said. “The 30 pieces on show, including sofas, armchairs, chaises, coffee tables, side tables, trunks, dining furniture and cushions are sophisticated, but also comfortable and easy to incorporate into any home.”

B&S: “So what about your home then Kelly – what’s it like?”

KH: “It suits me perfectly. Choosing your home’s style is a similar process to choosing a piece of couture clothing. It should reflect your taste and fit your personal style like a glove.”

Her home features in her latest book - Kelly Hoppen Ideas. It’s a sophisticated yet luxurious townhouse with more furniture, texture and objects than she has previously used in her own living space.

The book outlines her tips room by room. In it, she talks about how to use her signature elements such as shutters, vintage pieces and cushions to create a home that provides a welcoming shelter from the stressful world.