Taking on a new house build might be a dream or a step too far for some of us, but for Stephanie Bearman, it enhanced her love of interior design and even sowed the seed for a new career away from her IT background.
Along with her husband, the couple embarked on their first new-build project in Shenfield about ten years ago and after a successful build they took on their next project…the property next door!
Having gained her qualifications in interior design and with her flair and creativity, undeterred they demolished the existing house and set about with their new project...creating their very own dream family home.
The couple, who have two small children, have created a stunning home and it has the Georgian style Stephanie loves but is smart for the future, too.
Since she started SJS Interiors in 2015, Stephanie’s work has accelerated and she hasn’t looked back.
Many clients have followed her journey on social media and now she’s reaping the benefits of mixing business and pleasure.
'I offer a luxurious, elegant design service from single rooms to full houses and a consultancy service which seems to be really helpful to people.
'I can go out to clients but I’m at home too. It works well with a young family.
'Home renovation is at a height now and everyone is doing something. It’s bought the industry a new lease of life and it’s more acceptable to seek an interior designer, I don’t think that will change any time soon.'
Stephanie says planning can save you a lot of time in the long term and she’s there with advice as well as helping clients to budget.
She added: 'A lot of clients obviously want advice and some can visualise more than others so mood boards are good tools. Sometimes, they just need a helpful guide in the right direction. They have purchased items and individually the pieces are lovely but sometimes when they are altogether they don’t actually work as a scheme.
'Everyone has different tastes but from the start I can see what they’ll like. A brief could take two weeks to two months and it’s about having good options available.'
While most would think of the kitchen or lounge as the statement room of the house Stephanie has a bit of soft spot for probably an overlooked area.
She said: 'Hallways are my thing, I love hallways. One I designed was triple vaulted and you have to remember if the hallway is impressive it sets up for a spacious home.
'It is actually the main area we move around the house the most and incorporates the upstairs landing, which again, we’re walking through multiple times a day. If you can move around the house freely it makes it feel spacious.
'It’s the first thing you see when you’ve had a rough day at work… last thing you see before you take the stairs to bed… it’s the area that everyone sees whether it’s the delivery driver (we all probably know them by name by now!) or the neighbour knocking to give you the delivery! Not to mention it’s the space that all your guests are greeted with when they arrive!
'If you have the option of a large hallway, then giving it a couple of extra foot means it’s light and airy in space rather than just a corridor.
'When you walk into a house you get a feeling, and the hallway is that first impression.'
Pinterest and social media are a massive part of her work and she gets a lot of contacts from Instagram.
'It can be stressful, so you’ve got to ensure they know that you’re there to support them. A client relationship can be quite friendly so it’s a good part of the job.'
There is always going to be the odd bump says Stephanie. 'Often house building or renovation can be very stressful for clients, but that’s why I love this job and being able to assist people with a full design turnkey service or the occasional consultancy service. It’s also great to bounce ideas off each other.
'The ultimate satisfaction is that you’ve created something special and when all is completed and the last cushion gets plumped, they say "I couldn’t have done this without you" it’s certainly nice to hear.'
More about Stephanie
Her home.
'A new build Georgian-style with period staircase and sash windows. It has the mod cons but with a period look. People like character but future proofing is important, so we’ve put the tech in place. There’s an iPad in the wall which controls the lighting as well as a Sonos system and underfloor hearing.
'I do love a period property, it’s elegant and appealing. We have a grand hallway and the lounge is panelled. The back of the house is quite art deco and looks a lot different from the front of the house.'
Her inspiration
'Laura Hammett is a designer that I have consistently followed as her work is elegant and provides me with lots of amazing inspiration for my clients.
'I love Sophie Paterson’s work and she’s also got a young family like myself.'
Her hobbies
'Spending days getting lost on a bike ride with my not so enthusiastic kids and an energetic dog, Maggie! I also like getting stuck into a good book, when I have time! Other than that, you can find me ordering many samples I probably don’t need and surfing through Pinterest.'
sjsinteriordesign.co.uk
Instagram and Facebook: sjsinteriors
![18225490]()
Finishing touches complete the look (Image: Alicja Korbinska Photography)
Stephanie’s top ten interiors tips
Tip 1 - Paint transformation
Off whites as well as beautiful neutrals can really transform a room, keep skirting and coving the same colour for a drenched look or keep bright white for a more classical scheme.
Tip 2 - Grand statement
If your home is not blessed with tall ceilings, then draw the eye up to create a sense of height. Place the curtain pole as high as you can above the window to just down from the ceiling rather than just above the window, it’s amazing how this can change the feel of a space.
Tip 3 - Zoning!
In large open-plan areas, although they are spacious, sometimes you need some structure, to create a sense of comfort and usability.
Create zones within the space by adding rugs or furniture to each area you wish to divide.
Tip 4 - Fab fabrics
If your budget allows, try to invest in the best fabric you can, as they are often hard-wearing for longevity and give a luxe look.
I often use James Hare, Andrew Martin or Perennials fabrics in my schemes.
Tip 5 - Importance of accessories.
Accessories such as candles, vases etc are a simple way to update any space. Follow the seasons and add vibrant colours in changing cushions and throws for a completely new look!
Tip 6 - Light is so important
Lighting design is so important within a scheme, for example lighting your cabinetry with simple strip lighting or a picture light above a bookcase can add different moods with a space. It can really change the feel of an area or room.
Tip 7 - Plants!
Use house plants wherever you can, they are not only good for your soul, they bring the outdoors in… which can only bring good vibes!
Tip 8 - Layering up
I love neutrals and would happily create neutral scheme for years, although to avoid a flat uninteresting room, layering is key.
Add some panelling, some textured fabrics and interesting accessories to layer the space.
Tip 9 - Money Saving Tip 1
Give plain more cost-effective fabrics a boost by adding a decorative trim! This creates a sense of luxury without applying cost to the full curtain!
Fabric trims are great to add to cushions also, to add additional interest or colour.
Tip 10 - Money Saving Tip 2 - Paint match
Where budget is important, always colour match your paints. Most paint supplies will be able to colour most expensive high end paint designers. This can save a fortune, just make sure you invest in a small sample pot and test colour in every corner of the room.
