This week, we spoke with interior designer Louise Bradley who reveals her personal design philosophy, her best kept secret in design — and favourite artwork picks on AucArt.
Can you briefly describe your own personal design philosophy at Louise Bradley Design Studio?
I believe that exceptional design has the power to transform our surroundings and wellbeing. This is at the core of all of our design practices, fusing functionality and aesthetics. We understand that the spaces we live in have an impact on our everyday lives, a well-designed space not only impacts our wellbeing but with their seamless functionalities this can make our everyday living simpler and more harmonious.
What’s your thought process like when you’re incorporating art into a space?
My design approach is intuitive, and I get inspiration from a variety of sources. I am often inspired after my travels or attending an art or antiques fair, being surrounded by a diverse assortment of art, antiques, and design is where my ideas truly flow. I particularly look for objects that can fit into a classic contemporary home, as I believe beautiful art and intriguing objects bring a source of storytelling into a space, giving a room a certain narrative or personality.
How do you get an idea or feel for your client’s tastes and needs when choosing the artwork, furnishings, and accessories for a home?
We have fostered strong relationships with our clients over the years, which results in a collaborative approach to my design process. We spend a lot of time to establish our clients’ needs and how they want to use their space: how they work, socialise, and rest, which rooms they spend the most time in etc. We aim to encourage cultural curiosity in our clients inspired by history, global culture, and nature.
Do you collect art or any kind of objects yourself? If you consider purchasing a piece, what kind of things do you look for?Â
I collect art, especially pieces by Gino Hollander, which are very close to my heart. My parents were collectors of art, so it became a passion for me as well. My father gave me a painting by Hollander which represents myself and my sisters, which I have in my drawing room. I adore Hollander’s expressive works that combine oil paints and ink. I enjoy abstract painting as well, where emotion is portrayed through brushstrokes, energy, and the movement of paint across the canvas. Smaller, rapid sketches have their own distinct beauty, as they are frequently so simple but impactful in an interior. I also support regional artists and source art pieces from artisans across Europe.