Catherine McMillan – McMillan Interiors

Ulster Tatler speaks to Catherine McMillan, design director at McMillan Interiors.

You are very passionate about interior design; where did your love of design come from?

When I was a young teenager we moved to a country house which needed a lot of interior renovation. I watched my mum do a great job of turning it into a beautiful home. No from missed out on her eye for detail and colour. I’ve picked up those values of home, story and love to furnish spaces that reflect the people who live there.

Has there been a stand-out project over the years that you have been particularly proud of?

We were once involved in an exciting project in the Channel Islands which was a complete home with guest accommodation. We so enjoyed our relationship with our client and the need result was a stunning home.

How would you summarise interior design?

A design for an interior must allow the space to fit for purpose. It will benefit from a bespoke element – ie made-to-measure pieces, where relevant, such as curtains or fitted cupboards. It must allow for the needs, personality and lifestyle of the occupier. It should evoke the powerful emotions we need for rest and recharging.

Full interview in the Spring issue of Ulster Tatler Interiors.

Click here to view online:

https://issuu.com/ulstertatler/docs/interiors_spring23

Sarah Eccles of Studio 8 Interior Design

Ulster Tatler speaks to interior designer Sarah Eccles, owner and lead designer of Studio 8 Interior Design.

 

How would you describe your style?

When it comes to residential design and your own personal space, I think it is so important to create a design that is classic and timeless – that you will love for years to come. I also struggle to pin point my own style because day-to-day for a designer is filled with incredible fabrics, colours and furniture pieces from all different styles. I can appreciate so many different styles and don’t think I could categorise my own. Rather than following the former changing trends in interior design, creating a classic and timeless space will keep future costs down aswell as helping the forever important issue of designing sustainably.

Who has been the biggest inspiration to you professionally and personally?

My parents are a huge inspiration personally and professionally. From business advice to helping with deliveries and babysitting my Mum and Dad have always been there. They are my biggest cheerleaders, and I am forever grateful to them. My Design crushes within the industry are absolutely Shea McGee and Sophie Patterson.

What is on trend now and how will 2023 progress in the design stakes within our homes?

American interior design is a huge trend right now, with open-plan living and bringing in nature wood finished and an overall much more relaxed look. Although, in saying that, I think following strict trends is not essential in interior design. Trends can change so quickly and I think it is more important to get to know what style you are comfortable with and to create something timeless that will stand the test of time.

 

Full interview in the Spring issue of Ulster Tatler Interiors.

 

Click link below to read the full interview online:

https://issuu.com/ulstertatler/docs/interiors_spring23