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Top tips on picking the best London interior designers

Our guide to choosing the right firm to help you transform the inside of your home - whether you want subtle elegance or something excitingly unusual

5 January 2024
9 minutes read
Interior design samples and color swatches on a desk, showcasing various materials and shades for home renovation projects. Includes textured stone samples labeled 'Starlight White' and 'Crystal Royal' along with a fan of paint color options. Essential tools for London interior designers planning elegant and functional home interiors.

Want to know more about what a London interior design firm offers and how to choose the best London-based interior designer?

Most of the time, employing a local designer is preferable to one based some distance from your space. The good news is, if you live in proximity to London, you are lucky enough to have an extraordinary collection of interior designers to choose from.

But if you feel overwhelmed by the prospect of wading through hundreds of London interior designers, this article is for you. You will learn how to find, choose and hire interior designers and receive the best interior design solutions with a WOW! factor.

Why is the UK a leader in the field of interior design?

The UK has positioned itself as a global leader in interior design, and there are an estimated 20,000 interior designers currently practising in the UK.

The British interior design industry is centred around the amazing services found in London, although there are also excellent firms based elsewhere in the country. It’s a city with a rich history of interior design, and the top London interior design firms will be the first on many people's lists.

Think about it this way, as London is home to some of the top interior design firms, this highly competitive environment promotes companies to strive for perfection. Many of the top luxury interior design firms will offer an end-to-end service that integrates architecture and design for a flawless result that maximises the space's efficiency and creates a beautiful environment.

London's top luxury interior design firms also have a passion for the city and its world-renowned architecture. They will want to bring out the best in your building and showcase its history and location. Local knowledge can benefit your project in many ways, from a historical perspective to understanding local planning regulations and having unique connections with local suppliers and contractors.

So, if you are a London resident, with the availability and choice on offer in and around London, you should be able to find a designer whose style speaks to you and is based within your area.

Charming London street lined with elegant townhouses and parked cars on a sunny day. Features classic Georgian and Victorian architectural styles, lush greenery, and a tranquil residential atmosphere. Ideal setting for top London interior designers to showcase their skills in transforming beautiful homes.

What makes London-based interior designers special?

Have you ever wondered how interior design became a thing?

The rich history of London's interior designers started in the 1800s, when Rhoda and Agnes Garrett became professional home designers, creating their company – R&A Garrett – in 1874. That's right! Two suffragettes in their early thirties quit their day jobs and founded their own interior design company in a small flat behind Baker Street station.

By 1899 the Institute of British Decorators had been founded. Just over 60 years later, the Interior Decorators and Designers Association amalgamated with the UK chapter of the International Interior Design Association to form the renowned British Interior Design Association.

In 2009 the government granted institute status to BIDA. Today the British Institute of Interior Design, located in the heart of London, is the UK's oldest professional body solely representing interior designers.

In addition to the legitimacy and security provided by the BIID, London's top interior design firms offer a wide range of backgrounds and aesthetics. London-based interior designers are internationally renowned. These top design firms are registered with all the relevant governing bodies to offer you a service that is guaranteed. In addition, they have knowledge, experience and an intricate understanding of both form and function.

London's multiculturalism and rich interior design history have resulted in a legacy of variety and excellence. This city is at the cutting edge of modern style as well as having a wealth of classic styles at its fingertips. From sleek and contemporary to traditional and timeless, London's interior designers have so much to offer.

Many London-based interior design companies also offer an end-to-end architect service, whether you are renovating a house, converting or adding an extension. This service enables the design of your home to fit seamlessly with the architecture.

Most lists of "the top ten interior designers" will have strong representation from London-based firms. (Again, please don’t get us wrong – there is so much amazing work being done in Bristol and Birmingham, Leeds and Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle and many other towns and cities).

Not only that, but many international designers will have one of their bases in the UK capital. London is known as one of the world's greatest cosmopolitan cities, and visitors are drawn to its amazing architecture and art galleries. With so much culture to draw inspiration from, there really is no better place to look for an interior designer.

So, what are you waiting for?

Interior design can bring much more to your property than just a look. An experienced and knowledgeable designer can actually enhance your lifestyle, offering solutions to problems you may not have realised you have. If you still aren't convinced, read on to discover the benefits of hiring a local interior designer.

Elegant living room interior designed by a top London interior designer, featuring a stylish console table with a decorative gold bowl, a vibrant blue lamp, and modern artwork. The space is complemented by a lush indoor plant, dark wood flooring, and rich blue curtains, showcasing a blend of contemporary and classic design elements.

Why is working with a local interior designer a smart move?

Ask yourself this; if you were meeting someone for the first time, would you rather it be face-to-face or on a screen?

Post-Covid, many people may want to opt for the latter. But, in all honesty, you can't deny that communication flows a great deal easier in person. You can pick up on nuance, body language and simpatico. Choosing an interior designer is a very personal process, and you want to know you can trust this person to reflect your unique style and give you a space that feels like your own.

Finding the right designer can seem like a formidable task. Whether redesigning your entire home or just one room, employing an interior design company that can reflect your own personality is the key. Looking in your local area can help limit your initial search, but hiring a local interior designer has many other benefits.

Creative ideas are often hard to communicate, even more so when talking about a physical space. Getting the right balance of style and substance is tricky, and you will want a design that works well in your home and with your lifestyle.

A local designer can be on hand to visit the space, communicate face-to-face, and show you suggestions in the locale. While we do a great deal of our work via video calls, sometimes you need to communicate with a person who is standing in front of you. Photographed colours can look dramatically different from the way they will look in situ, and if you are relying on email communication, a lot can be lost in translation.

A local interior designer will also be able to make site visits. The best interior designers in London will integrate interior design and architecture, and your interior designer can also function as a project manager. Being local means they can communicate effectively with contractors and suppliers and act as your sole contact saving you time and stress. By maintaining a close collaboration, you can be assured that you will get the result you want.

And that's not all. Another benefit of using a local interior designer is that you might be able to visit past clients and see for yourself what the designer has been able to achieve. Often, houses in your local area will have very similar layouts and room sizes. This trait can be extremely handy when it comes to experiencing what a design will feel like once it is complete. Photographs are great, but they will never give you the same perspective as standing in the room.

In contrast, a remote designer may not fully grasp the nuance of your space. Unless the designer has stood in the room they are working on, it can be tough to get the proportions correct. A local top luxury designer will be able to work with the light and position of your room, whereas a remote designer may not fully appreciate the aspects of the building.

Luxurious living room designed by a leading London interior designer, featuring a modern cream sofa with accent pillows, a sleek round coffee table, and stylish blue-patterned lamps. The room is brightened by large bay windows with white shutters, indoor plants, and a contemporary rug, creating an inviting and elegant atmosphere.

Local knowledge

London has an extraordinary range of great architecture, ranging from Georgian and Victorian through Edwardian and midcentury modern to contemporary. There are amazing homes that were designed for that purpose, and others converted from churches, warehouses and offices. These wonderful examples of great British architecture deserve to have their fabulous features accentuated, and who better to do that than a designer with local knowledge?

Local designers will have a much better understanding of the history and aesthetics of the area. This knowledge can help create a design that makes the most of the building's features and will reflect the location of your space. Many local interior design firms will have a passion for their neighbourhood and its architecture. If you have a beautiful building, you will want a design that resonates with it. A local designer will often have more respect and appreciation for the area and will be able to reflect that in their design.

A few top London interior design firms employ town planners. By choosing a company with an all-encompassing approach, you can be assured that your project won't run into any unexpected issues.

Hiring a top interior designer from your area can also save you money. Local knowledge is not just restricted to the history and regulations of the region. Local design firms will know the best places to go for furnishings or art pieces, including local auction houses and artists.

Being local means that you have the option to accompany them and pick out the style that you like, giving you more input and the designer a better chance of creating something you will love. Being able to see artwork and feel fabric and materials will provide you with a more personal and tactile appreciation of what you would like in your home.

But you know what else? Keep reading to find out!

Elegant living room designed by a top London interior designer, showcasing a sophisticated mix of modern and classic elements. The space features a plush white sofa, two cream accent chairs, a chic round coffee table with gold accents, and a stylish blue-patterned rug. A dark wood bookcase filled with books and decor items adds a touch of refinement, while the room is illuminated by tasteful wall sconces and a modern floor lamp, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

Local contacts

Interior design projects take a lot of resources, so having a designer that has local contacts can make or break your project. These contacts can include plasterers, painters, decorators, structural engineers and many more. Having these local contacts means that a local interior design firm will be able to be extremely realistic when it comes to the budget of your project.

From painters to plumbers, lighting to loos, a local designer will already have established relationships with many local tradespeople and suppliers. These relationships mean that you won't need to worry about finding a reputable and reliable service, as your designer will already have these contacts. Repeat trade means that any contractor your designer brings on board will have a vested interest in working to the utmost standards on your project. This fact gives you peace of mind that all the work is done to a high standard, with durability and longevity at the forefront.

The reality is that a local interior design firm will have much more weight when dealing with local contractors and tradespeople than a designer that is not from the area. Luxury interior design companies will bring repeated business to their contacts and have access to trade deals that will not be offered to just anyone.

This fact is one of the many ways that hiring an interior designer can save you money in the long run. You may be surprised at the scope of discounts that are available to a top interior design firm, and often the fee is worth access to these exclusive deals alone.

As well as providing you a quality service, using local suppliers and tradespeople helps boost the local economy and is more ecological in terms of delivery distance.

With all these benefits, why would you look further afield for an interior designer? Read on to find out.

How far away should your interior designers be?

Samuel Johnson once wrote, "Distance has the same effect on the mind as on the eye."

I know what you're thinking; what has that got to do with interior design? Well, we all know that things can often seem much different in our memory than in reality. While many great interior design projects have been undertaken from a distance, there is no denying the benefit of having everything and everyone you need on hand.

If you don't mind being the one to be on top of your project, checking the measurements, and ensuring the work is being carried out correctly, then you probably won't mind having a designer who is not nearby. However, perhaps you don't feel confident overseeing every detail or are too busy to commit to regular site visits. In this instance, a local interior designer will be able to take on that workload for you.

Many of London's top interior design firms will function as project managers as well as designers. They can oversee the development and execution of the job, communicating closely with architects, contractors, and suppliers as needed. They will then only contact you with important updates, freeing you from the worry of all the small details. For this kind of task management to occur, it is essential that your interior designer be only a short distance from you and your project.

Ideally, your designer will be 20 miles or less from you, but having said that, many successful design projects have been completed long-distance. Finding a designer that reflects your personal aesthetics and lifestyle is the bottom line. After all, you want a design that you will be happy living with for years to come.

If you have your heart set on a particular designer and are willing to work on clear and concise communications, here are some tips for dealing with interior design from a distance.

  • Schedule milestone visits ahead of time where you, your designer, and contractors can walk through the space together. As frequent visits will be impractical, agree with your designer on crucial moments when you will need to check in with the project on location.
  • If you feel you are not getting your point over effectively through email, arrange a video call. It's too easy to lose inflexion and nuance when using text.
  • If you send pictures of what you would or wouldn't like, make your intention absolutely clear. Mark up images where necessary and include explicit comments.
  • Exercise patience when communicating via video chat. Try not to talk over your designer and ensure you have heard everything being said. Don't rush when you speak and leave pauses in the conversation in case they need to interject. This kind of conversation can feel very stilted and throw you off your flow, so it's a good idea to write down all the points you want to discuss prior to the call. This way, you have something to refer to if you feel you are losing your train of thought.

It goes without saying that if you find a designer whose style you love, then it doesn't matter how far away they are. It is important to consider all the practicalities, but it is essential that you are excited about the end design. Don't settle for something you are not in love with for the sake of convenience. Your goal is to end up with a space that feels like home.

Two professional London interior designers collaborating on a project, reviewing material samples and design plans at a polished wooden table. The designers, one in a black dress and the other in a white blouse, are surrounded by design sketches, colour swatches, and a laptop, demonstrating the meticulous planning and creativity involved in high-end interior design. This image captures the essence of teamwork and expertise in the field of luxury interior design in London.

Working with a London interior designer for your project

The goal of any top London interior designer will be to translate your ideas into a reality. You may feel that you don't have any idea of what you want, but the fact is that you will definitely know what you don't want.

Top London interior design companies will collaborate closely with you to realise your vision or aid you in coming to a conclusion about what style appeals to you. They may also give you ideas that you would not have thought of yourself but still resonate with your personal tastes.

Interior design is not purely about aesthetics. It also encompasses the usability and functionality of a space. Taking into account how you use the area is essential. Any top luxury interior designer should ask for plenty of details about your intentions for the room, who is using it, and how it should work for you in order to gain maximum efficiency from both the space and the design.

By working closely with architects, top interior designers will be able to integrate lighting, heating, and other fixtures into the overall design, creating one seamless look.

A good interior designer should be able to come up with a design that you love simply by asking you questions about pallet and style even if you're not sure what you want. Hiring a top interior designer is often the best way to make the most of your space and find your own style.

Many people may worry that by hiring an interior designer, they will lose the personal touch and be presented with someone else's style instead. However, this is not true, as a genuinely great interior designer will find your unique style and convert that into a cohesive room design.

When working with a London interior designer, you will be expected to be more heavily involved during the design stage. This stage can include anything from submitting your ideas to approving the designer's suggestions. Once the style and substance have been finalised, you will be able to take a step back, and your designer will become your one point of contact.

Picture this, you're at work, and you get a call telling you there is an issue with the project. Perhaps the fixtures haven't arrived on time, or the contractors have fitted pipes in the wrong place. You realise that this problem will add cost and time to your project, but there is nothing you can do about it. Well, here's the thing, if you are working with a local London interior designer, this scenario won't ever play out. Top London interior design firms will have your designer on hand, and even on-site, to catch these issues before they become a problem.

Your designer will manage the contractors and suppliers as well as work closely with architects if needed. Any vital information will be relayed to you through the designer, leaving you free of any minor concerns and giving you the peace of mind that your project is being well handled.

If you're curious what other qualities London's interior designers possess, then keep reading!

Modern London interior design showcasing a stylish open-plan living space with a dark wood bookcase partition. The room features elegant light wood flooring, a contemporary kitchen island with bar stools, and a cosy dining area. The floor-to-ceiling bookcase, filled with books and decorative items, adds both functionality and a sophisticated touch to the space. This design highlights the expertise of top London interior designers in creating functional yet aesthetically pleasing living environments.

Imagination

A good imagination is the key to being a great interior designer. The ability to think creatively and provide a personal service is essential. Your designer will be able to see how objects and textures will work with the space, as well as effectively assess the proportions of the room in relation to the fixtures and furnishings that will adorn it.

It takes a particular skill to be able to see how colour schemes, patterns, and textures all work together in a space. Add to this the ability to assess clients' tastes to create a design that is inherently personal to them, and you've not even scratched the surface of what an interior designer does!

Top interior designers will also have an understanding of what materials will work best for you and how they can use every inch of space to create a usable and delightful living space.

If you're anything like me, you struggle to keep a clear surface tidy. Kids’ toys, keys, letters, and much more will eventually fill any surface that isn't already in use. Interior designers can pinpoint these issues and create imaginative and workable solutions to help you deal with day-to-day living.

Interior designers will aim to create a design that is as practical as it is beautiful. Being able to imagine how each piece will fit with your lifestyle and how each room will be used is just as important as having a good eye for colour and texture.

Spatial awareness is a vital skill for interior designers. From the moment they walk into a space, they can envisage what kind of materials, colours, and textures will work to enhance the qualities of the room.

Let's face it: there aren't many of us that possess that level of artistic awareness balanced with practical knowledge of how to utilise a space.

Contemporary London interior design featuring a modern kitchen with dark wood cabinetry, marble countertops, and a sleek built-in oven. The open-plan layout includes a stylish dining area with a wooden table and designer wire-frame chairs. A large black pendant light hangs over the dining table, adding a touch of sophistication. The space is enhanced by built-in bookshelves and a cosy beige sofa, creating a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics.

Freedom from worry

Renovating, extending, or building a house can be an incredibly stressful time. With so much to think about and plan for, some things are bound to slip through the cracks. Even refurbishing a small space takes a lot more time and effort than imagined. Finalising the design, managing the contractors, and ensuring everything is on schedule takes a considerable amount of coordination. Regardless of whether you want to take a backseat from all the fine details or you would like to have a more hands-on role, an interior designer can help keep your project on track and on budget.

Employing a dedicated designer right from the start of your project can save you many sleepless nights and avoid expensive mistakes along the way. Top designers will be experienced in talking to architects, and some firms have a team built up of architects and designers who are used to working together. These multi-skilled companies take an all-encompassing approach to ensure the entire process runs smoothly and results in a seamless finish.

London's top luxury designers will work with you and your contractors to avoid design mistakes and keep the overall project cohesive. The designer will communicate with tradespeople and builders on your behalf and act as a project manager to save you the stress and worry over the minutia. As your designer will function as your point of contact, you won't need to spend your time relaying information to numerous people, and you can rest assured that any issues will be dealt with swiftly and efficiently.

A top interior designer will be well versed in the language of clients and design, so will be able to find out your likes and dislikes. As long as you are completely honest about what you want and what you don't, you will be able to sit back and watch your project come together beautifully. For you, there will be no endless trawling of the internet for light fittings or rugs, as your designer will have you covered and will be able to provide you with suggestions that suit your personal style.

Modern London bedroom interior design featuring a cosy bed with a brown and gray color scheme, complemented by textured wall panels and elegant built-in storage. A sleek desk with a contemporary chair and stylish lamp provides a functional workspace. The room is accentuated with rich, dark curtains, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Value for money

You might be wondering if spending the money on an interior designer is worth it in the long run. The answer is most definitely, yes.

Getting an interior designer in at the start of your project can help keep the overall costs down. They will be able to work with architects and contractors, ensuring that costly mistakes are avoided. Designers can often pinpoint an error that others may have overlooked and ensure that it never becomes a significant problem. By thinking of the functionality of the space, a top designer should be able to fix any foreseeable issues before your contractors get to work.

But that isn't the only way interior designers can keep your project on budget. Luxury interior design companies will be able to save you money on fixtures, fittings, and furnishings. Many of them will be able to access trade deals, and they will know the best suppliers. The trade deals that top interior designers have access to can be anything from fixtures to appliances or décor. Designers are often very adept at negotiations and can help you keep costs down in many areas.

From colour scheme coordination to interior finishes and furniture, a luxury interior designer will have it all covered. Top luxury interior designers will also know when to spend and where to save. Even if this means spending a bit more on hard-wearing items, it will save you money on replacements or repairs in the future.

A genuinely great designer can often create a similar look for a variety of prices, and by discussing this with your designer, you will be able to pull off many high-end luxury looks that won't blow your budget

It all boils down to this: interior designers usually end up paying for themselves in the long run.

London interior designer working on architectural plans using a tablet, showcasing the integration of modern technology in interior design. The image highlights the detailed and precise approach taken by top London interior designers to create stunning and functional living spaces.

Interior design process in the UK

To create visually attractive and functionally practical spaces we begin with the conceptual design stage where we formulate a specific brief that will direct our ideas, and once we have a concrete plan of action we then move to the project management stage where your vision will be transformed into a realistic and concrete reality.

At every stage of the design and construction processes, we will painstakingly plan and articulate all the details, as well as anticipate any contingencies. By doing so, we will deliver interiors that promote relaxing and luxurious environments in your home.

Chartered architects usually work to the RIBA Plan of Work that breaks the project down into eight stages. The primary stage is called Strategic Definition and consists of assessing the viability of the project. This stage is usually charged on a time basis as the amount of work can vary depending on the project. Occasionally some architects may decide not to charge for this stage, and as it is open-ended, it is usually referred to as Stage 0.

The first official stage is the Preparation and Brief. This stage will ascertain the feasibility of the scheme and uncover any potential objections. The amount of work required for this stage can vary considerably, so some architects may charge on a time basis. It may be possible to set a reasonably realistic costing for the project at this stage.

The next stage is Concept Design and will see the first design sketches based on the brief. These drawings will be finalised after initial consultations with statutory authorities.

A concept design will then be developed to demonstrate the look and functionality of the space. This stage is known as the Developed Design stage. Both budget and quality will be considered to maximise impact and durability. The architect will then provide the necessary information for the client's application for planning permission.

Next, during the Technical Design stage, the architect will translate the plans into technical information that can then be used by the contractors. The provision of the technical drawings will usually be followed by the "tender for the main construction contract."

As the building work commences, the Construction stage, the architect will make occasional site inspections to ensure the contractor is following the specifications and drawings. Depending on how closely you want your contractors monitored, you can negotiate with your architect and request that they make more frequent visits or employ a clerk of works. Your point of contact will usually be your architect, who will relay any information, issues, or payment requests.

Once the building work is complete, the architect will Handover and Close Out, concluding all aspects of the Building Contact, including the inspection of defects, and will be responsible for the production of any certification required.

The final stage is In Use and refers to any post-project evaluations. As such, it is usually charged at a separately negotiated rate.

Your chartered architect can also help you plan a subsequent sequence of inspections and maintenance procedures to help you keep your build in good condition. If you wish to know more, you can request a maintenance manual to help you keep on top of any minor issue that may develop into major problems if left unchecked.

By using a chartered architect, you are protecting yourself from any disputes that might occur. Your architect must work to the standards set by the professional body. Both procedures and personal conduct of your architect must uphold the reputation of the profession, and any serious complaints can be addressed to the Architects' Registration Board (ARB) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

Interior design featuring a sleek kitchen with integrated appliances, a dining area with elegant green chairs, and a stylish wooden staircase with glass railings.

Types of interior design projects Urbanist Architecture works on

Recognised as one of the best interior architecture and interior designer firms in London, our projects include high-end interior design and residential refurbishments of apartments, townhouses, and penthouses in London through to show homes, mansions, and countryside villas.

We provide luxury interior design services and specialise in the creation of impressive and distinctive luxury interiors. Whether your project is a new build or upmarket refurbishment, our approach reflects your taste and aspirations, whether classic or contemporary, while incorporating the particular strengths and opportunities that each space affords.

Stylish home office designed by a top London interior designer, featuring built-in blue cabinetry, a skylight for natural light, a vintage wooden desk, and modern seating.

Small space interior design

People often believe hiring an interior designer is only appropriate for a large area or entire house. Wrong! Effective interior design is actually more important in a small space than a large one.

While you may look at your box room as a lost cause, a top interior designer will see endless possibilities. Many designers will thrive on a project like this, as they will really get to exercise their designing chops to come up with ingenious solutions to your space.

As a top luxury interior design firm, Urbanist Architecture will be able to maximise the efficiency of a small space without sacrificing aesthetics. They will be able to offer you multiple options for the style and functionality of your small space that will transform a wasted room into a desirable living space.

Clever and creative storage solutions can mean the difference between an area that quickly becomes cluttered and a sleek and beautiful room. Top designers will be able to pinpoint areas of space that are wasted and will have the knowledge of the best storage solutions with which to utilise the space efficiently.

A top interior designer will also have the capacity to envisage a colour scheme to enhance the room's look and feel. With a wealth of knowledge and experience behind them, an interior designer can breathe life and light into rooms that you may not have considered to be usable.

Buying furniture that fits can be a real chore in a small space. Interior designers will often be able to design bespoke pieces that are tailor-made for your room and maximise the effectiveness of the space that you have. It will also mean that the proportions of the room will look correct, and you won't have to worry about checking the measurements of pre-made items.

The fact is that a quality interior designer will be able to make the most of a small space, and it is never a bad idea to consult with one.

Modern living room designed by a leading London interior designer, featuring sleek wooden paneling, a pink built-in sofa with shelving, a minimalist desk setup, and green indoor plants. This contemporary design exemplifies the innovative and functional aesthetic offered by top London interior design firms, blending stylish decor with practical living solutions.

Buy-to-let interior design

Despite recent changes to the buy-to-let market, a buy-to-let property is still a solid investment. Hiring a luxury interior designer for your buy-to-let may seem like a waste of money, but the right designer can actually add value and desirability to your property.

In this competitive market, you want to be able to get the maximum rental yield possible. An interior designer will not only enable you to achieve that but will be able to increase the attractiveness of your property. It is not uncommon for renters to offer more than the asked rental value to ensure they can snag the home of their dreams, and a designer can turn your buy-to-let property into a place that dreams are made of.

Our team at Urbanist Architecture will be able to transform your buy-to-let property into the perfect home for your target tenants, whether they are young professionals or families. Hiring an interior designer can make your property stand out from the rest and enable you to achieve the maximum revenue from your investment.

Buy-to-let interior design differs from the usual process in that the aim is not to reflect your personal style. Instead, a buy-to-let interior designer will consider the needs of the people who will be living in the property and be able to create a design that will work for them on many levels.

A top interior designer will also be able to save you money on fixtures and fittings through contacts with local contractors. As designers also take into account which items will need to be hard-wearing, they may also save you money in the long run that would otherwise be spent on replacements and repairs.

What's the bottom line?

Well, by hiring us for the interior architecture of your buy-to-let, you can continually achieve the maximum rental yield. You will also benefit from having renters falling over themselves to be your tenants, and durable fixtures and fittings will save you money in repairs or replacements. The question is, can you afford not to hire us as an interior designer for your buy-to-let?

Modern open-plan living and dining area designed by a top London interior designer, featuring a sophisticated blend of neutral tones and contemporary furnishings. The space includes a stylish gray sofa, elegant dining table set for tea, unique light fixture, and a sleek black accent wall with a mounted flat-screen TV.

House extension and interior design

House extensions are the perfect way to blend form and function. Hiring an interior designer from the beginning of a project like this can save you a lot of time, effort, and money. By collaborating closely with the architect, a top interior designer will be able to side-step any potential issues with the design from the start. They will also have the ability to combine the build seamlessly with the design, creating a space that works precisely as you intended.

You may be apprehensive about how your architect and interior designer will work together, and you may be wondering if you can go with one and not the other. The solution to this is to find a company that offers an all-inclusive end-to-end service. As a top luxury interior design company, Urbanist Architecture are RIBA-chartered architects and interior designers. Due to our expertise, we can offer a service to oversee every aspect of the project, from the initial idea to the completed extension.

By integrating architectural design with interior design, you can maximise the functionality of the space and combine the placement of fixtures and fittings into the overall cohesion of the room.

Using an interior designer alongside an architect can be the perfect combination when planning and executing an extension. Whether your aim is to blend the extension in with the rest of the building or create something that stands out and adds new character to your home, working with an interior designer can open up a world of possibilities.

If you're struggling with how to best extend your current building, meeting with an interior designer first can sometimes path the way to how best to instruct an architect. Top interior designers often have a working knowledge of structure and so may be able to help you decide which direction to go in.

There really is no need to choose between form and function when planning a new extension, as you can successfully achieve both.

Elegant modern dining and kitchen area designed by Urbanist Architecture's interior designers, featuring high-end furniture and decor. The space includes plush velvet bar stools, a sleek black dining table with contemporary chairs, and a luxurious chandelier. Large windows provide ample natural light, accentuating the sophisticated and airy ambiance.

New-build homes and show homes interior design

The goal of a show home is to inspire buyers with an insight into life in a luxurious new abode. Top interior designers are able to do this with ease and increase the saleability of new homes dramatically.

Our interior designers will be able to create an ideal living space for your target market full of clever ideas that prospective homeowners can use in their own houses. Everyone knows when you're selling a house, you are actually selling a lifestyle, and you want that lifestyle to reflect the ideals of your buyers. When it comes to marketing a dream, interior designers have the experience and knowledge to make that a reality.

New build houses are often a blank canvas and can be daunting when trying to decide where to start. Interior design for a new build can help you find your style and keep a cohesive flow throughout your home.

An interior designer will help you think about how you want your house to feel, what atmosphere you want to create, and how you want to use your home. Top interior designers will pinpoint hard wear areas and help you create a sustainable look that aids your lifestyle, making you happy and comfortable in your new home.

Creating a beautiful space is one thing but creating a space that reflects your personality and works seamlessly with your lifestyle is something else entirely. Hiring an interior designer can help you put your stamp on your new build without sacrificing functionality.

Interior design is so much more than aesthetics. It can help streamline your day-to-day existence, making your home work for you and affording you the time and space for relaxation.

When it comes down to it, your home should be where your heart is, so why would you pass up on a wealth of knowledge and experience that can turn your house into the only place you want to come home to.

Two professional interior designers reviewing architectural plans at a modern office with large windows. The workspace features a polished wooden table adorned with design books and fresh white flowers, reflecting a blend of creativity and professionalism.

Urbanist Architecture's approach to interior design projects

Our holistic interior design philosophy is based on the seamless cohesion of people and place, of form and function, and this is reflected by our expert multidisciplinary team's interior design and interior architecture approach. We consider the longevity of interior concepts and strive for continuity between interior design and building design. By doing this, we create beautifully crafted, synergistic living environments that suit your particular aesthetic taste and practical requirements.

From the coordination and optimisation of colour schemes, patterns, textures and lighting through to the selection and specification of interior finishes including furniture and cabinetry, fabric and upholstery, paint and wall coverings, flooring, accessories, and artwork, we consider all aspects of luxurious interior design, space planning and detailing in order to maximise the potential of exquisitely crafted interior spaces.

Modern open-plan kitchen and dining area. The space features a sleek white kitchen island with marble countertops, contemporary grey dining chairs around a glass table, and a mezzanine level. Exposed brick walls and a mix of industrial and minimalist design elements highlight the expertise of top London interior designers in creating chic, functional living spaces.

We create interiors that reflect the previous life of the building and its character

Our team has a passion for London and its wonderful architecture. We strive to bring out all the aspects of your building and its history and to use interior architecture to tell the story of both you and your home.

At Urbanist Architecture, we endeavour to blend your personal style with that of your building, reflecting its character and integrating it with your lifestyle. In doing so, we hope to create a space that is uniquely you, that supports you in your daily life, and enhances your enjoyment of your home.

London is such a historical city, and each area has had its own special journey to become the place it is today. We appreciate a building's location, past, and character and aim to create delightful spaces that reflect the rich history of your home. Every building has a story, and we want to tell that story using our unique approach to interior design.

Our team strives to produce interior architecture for inherently responsive and adaptable spaces. This intention includes making it fit your unique lifestyle and showcasing all the beauty of your home. Our passion, experience, and local knowledge allow us to seamlessly connect past to future, giving you the best of both worlds for a stunning aesthetic with modern practicalities.

Whether you are new to your home or not, a consultation with us may help you unlock and appreciate aspects of your home that you might not have noticed before. Our team has a keen eye for detail and would be delighted to discuss ideas and design options with you.

Contemporary kitchen design featuring a large marble-topped island with modern grey bar stools. The clean white cabinetry and integrated appliances create a sleek look, while minimalist decor and recessed lighting add sophistication. The staircase with floating steps enhances the open-plan layout, exemplifying the expertise of top London interior designers in creating functional and stylish living spaces.

We create interiors that respond to the structure of the building without limitations

Our team comprises architects, interior designers and town planners who work seamlessly together to create amazing spaces. With our diverse team, we have the unique ability to assess your space and approach your project from different angles, but with one goal; to allow the room to work for you with maximum efficiency.

Our interior architecture creates a successful spatial relationship between the enclosed volume and the building itself. We want your home to have cohesion, from the exterior of the building to the interior rooms. We aim to reflect the outside of the building in the interior design and utilise the inner space to its highest potential.

Our process inspires structurally simpler construction methods that enhance the inside space and maximise the potential of the interior of the building. We streamline every process, creating new and exciting ways of helping you achieve your desired result.

Along with these methods, we take advantage of new materials that are available that will best suit your building and your project. Our work speaks for itself, and many examples of our incredible designs can be seen in our diverse portfolio.

We want the interior design of your building to be responsive to both you and your home, reflecting architectural features and meeting the everyday needs of you and your family.

All of this means that we possess the background and knowledge to allow your space to reach its utmost potential. No space is wasted, and every aspect is exploited to achieve the pinnacle of usability.

Modern bedroom design featuring a plush grey upholstered headboard and elegant green accent pillows on a crisp white bed. The room's clean lines and minimalist decor are complemented by hexagonal wall art and soft lighting. A glass partition offers a view into the living area, showcasing the seamless blend of private and shared spaces.

We create interiors that make a better and more comfortable world for you

Your home should be your sanctuary – a place where you can relax, refresh and unwind, safe from the stresses of the world. If you work from home, it is even more essential that you have a space that works for you, so you are still able to enjoy the comfort of your home once you have finished your workday.

Most modern family homes have space issues – add to this working from home or adult children needing to move back in, and things can start to feel a bit crowded. If you live in a flat or somewhere where space is a premium, it's easy to feel like you just need more room. However, in many homes, there are wasted spaces. These places won't be obvious, but our team will be able to identify areas that aren't being utilised to their full potential.

We offer cohesive solutions to any space problems, leaving you with a home that works in harmony with your day-to-day life. By talking to you about how you use your home, we will be able to convert this information into a practical design tailored to you. We will discover what does and doesn't work for you to ensure all of your space is being used efficiently so you can gain the maximum potential of each and every room.

At Urbanist Architecture, we can offer the most ergonomic solutions to unify and strengthen your experience of the space. Our utmost priority is that you enjoy your home. Once your space is working in harmony with you, your day-to-day life feels a little smoother and more joyful.

By assessing your needs and personal tastes, we aim to give you the beautiful space you deserve with all the usability you need.

Contemporary loft bedroom design featuring a sophisticated grey tufted headboard, plush bedding with green accent pillows, and modern side tables with matching lamps. The spacious, open-plan layout includes a glass railing, allowing natural light to flood the room. A cosy sitting area in the foreground enhances the luxurious ambiance.

We create interiors where heat, light, power, and water integrate seamlessly

Our team possesses many skills that go beyond architectural and interior design alone. We can create flawless interiors that are presented as one cohesive ideal by utilising all our skills working together. We use our many different approaches to combine technology, design, and architecture in order to create something extraordinary.

We are able to seamlessly integrate heat, light, power, and water, so nothing detracts from the overall design of the space. As we offer an end-to-end service, our team will be with you from conception to completion.

This comprehensive service enables us to have unique control over the entire process, with our designers working closely with our architects and contractors in order to have valuable input into the placement of essential items. Our designers will incorporate every critical detail into their design, so you can be assured that the initial plan will be precisely what you end up with.

Our interior architecture utilises smart integration and installation of mechanical and electrical systems to optimise your living space and leave a flawless finish. We blend classic with contemporary to provide you with a timeless look with every modern convenience incorporated into the design.

We combine form and function to create a space that works to give you the best experience we can. Our team will provide you with an interior design that makes the most of modern living without sacrificing aesthetics.

Modern en-suite bathroom design featuring elegant marble tiles, a sleek glass-enclosed shower with black fixtures, and a minimalist toilet. The spacious bedroom in the background showcases a luxurious bed with green accent pillows and a cosy grey blanket, illuminated by ample natural light from large windows.

We create interiors with unique and special solutions to tell your story

We believe your home should be a true reflection of your personality. Our integrated interior and architectural design services will offer you many new and exciting ways to tell your story through your home. At Urbanist Architecture, we are experienced in working with clients who have unique and varied lifestyles.

Your story and your needs are distinctive to you. Our team at Urbanist Architecture strives to make your daily life run as smoothly as possible. We offer unique and exceptional solutions that will fully integrate you with your home. Every home is different, and every family has different needs and requirements.

To be fully integrated with your home means that the interior design will reflect your style and make the everyday running of your home smooth and straightforward. We pinpoint areas of your home that can be streamlined to maximise the efficiency of the space.

Our team aims to eliminate as much stress from your life as possible. We use our exceptional skill set to design a space that works for you and with you.

Contemporary loft apartment with an open-plan design featuring a concrete staircase, a modern bathroom with geometric floor tiles, and a spacious bedroom illuminated by large windows. The bathroom includes a sleek glass shower and a freestanding bathtub with black fixtures.

We create interiors that uplift your day-to-day experience of living

Your home should be your refuge, a place for ultimate rest and relaxation away from the usual stress and worry. However, the reality is that most people work just as hard at home as anywhere else. The thankless tasks of laundry, picking up after the kids, and cleaning up after dinner can bog us down and make the time in your house seem exhausting.

At Urbanist Architecture, we believe that your house should be your favourite space, comfortable and pleasurable to be in. You should be able to look forward to coming home to somewhere that is visually impressive and effortlessly efficient. Our designs make this dream a reality, using our wealth of knowledge and experience to offer you ideas for your living space that you didn't know existed.

We use interior architecture to create spaces that are as practical as they are enjoyable. We offer inspirational solutions to transform your space into a truly spectacular haven. Our aim is for you to be able to enjoy every aspect of your home, from how you work in it to how you relax. Our interiors are designed to enhance your experience of home life, making daily chores more streamlined, storage more imaginative, and your living space a more comforting place to be.

If your home doesn't inspire joy, revitalise, and leave you refreshed, then book a consultation with us. Our friendly team is on hand to discuss any project you have in mind. Whether you want to redesign one room or an entire building, let us show you how we can get your space working for you.

Team of interior designers collaborating on a project at a polished wooden table, surrounded by design plans, fabric samples, colour swatches, and material boards. This image captures the creative process and attention to detail that Urbanist Architecture bring to every project.

Working with Urbanist Architecture for your interior design project

Thinking outside of the box is what we do all day long to create spectacular interior spaces, and we are pretty good at it! We guarantee that we will give you the wow! factor you've been looking for. Whether you want to make a bold statement or make subtle changes, we will transform your space into a bespoke place suited to your tastes and needs.

Ufuk Bahar, Founder and Managing Director of Urbanist Architecture
AUTHOR

Ufuk Bahar

Urbanist Architecture’s founder and managing director, Ufuk Bahar takes personal charge of some of our larger projects, focusing particularly on Green Belt developments, new-build flats and housing and high-end full refurbishments.

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