In conversation with Amy Wilson

Today we chat with one of our tastemakers, Amy Wilson. You probably know her for her fabulous instagram page @thisstyle_rocks . We talk about her love for bold interiors, best interiors advice, and talk about the things she loves about her own home. 

When did you discover your passion for interior design?

It was my mother that started it all off. She really encouraged us to do whatever we wanted in our bedrooms, claiming that they were our creative space. I painted my bedroom a really dark teal colour including the ceiling and haven't stopped since. Even when moving to our uni rental accommodation I couldn't help myself and painted stripes on walls. It comes from a space where I want to nest and feel rooted in a space. 

How would you describe your own aesthetic?

I like interiors with humour, colour, soul and a bit of shock value. I dont think I'm a true maximalist, but I like a considered bold aesthetic.  I have really started to pair back the amount of stuff I have as I gain more pleasure from seeing big impactful pieces that are usually quite unexpected within that space. 

What is the best piece of interiors advice that you have?

If a piece makes your heart sing every time you see it, celebrate it and build your scheme around it. Thought I must say, I'm not much of a planner as I like seeing a space evolve organically, I do this gradually over time and let the scheme evolve. This allows me to be a bit more flexible and adaptable to any other changes or issues that inevitably come up during a renovation. It also makes it easier for me to compromise by being less rigid and tacking design problems creatively. 

My ideal space has to have the following 3 things ....​

1. Colour
2. Warm sexy lighting
3. Something out of scale - usually a bit too big.

Biggest source of inspiration

I was initially very inspired by Abigail Ahern. When I went to her design masterclass and loved how ballsy and brave she was with her take on interiors. Nowadays I am very inspired by peoples reactions to the spaces I create, my family are the first to notice any tweaks in our own home but I am also very encouraged by peoples feedback to our house - ever pushing me to do things a little bit different or unexpected. Nowadays Instagram can be a double edged sword. It can make you think that you have to change stuff, or like things that you actually don't like - so I take it with a pinch of salt. But, I am very inspired by people on social media, and love seeing the breath of design out there. 

What would you say is your favourite space in your home?

It must be my new kitchen, family space. We reconfigured our kitchen to create an open kitchen-living  with a hidden door leading to the boot room and downstairs loo. It gives me real joy as we spend so much time in here and are so lucky to have a gorgeous bright kitchen with the glass roof.  We totally live in this space now (proximity to the fridge I think helps)!

What is one design trend that you are loving at the moment?

I like the trend that people going a bit bolder and being a bit more playful with their interiors. Its especially important in a family home where you can be a bit more playful and colour and pattern can help you hide a multitude of sins. Why not wallpaper or use a feature colour on the ceiling.

One design trend that you hate?

I don't like gimmicky design or schemes that are too predictable - such as a coastal theme with pictures of lighthouses. I also hate chopped cushions!

Top pet peeve in your home

I have two!  Firstly, any kit left around by my kids which I have to clear up after. Secondly is unmade beds. I have to always make my bed in the morning and when my kids don't their room just looks a hot mess.

How to do you think social media has changed the way people interact with interior design?

I think that it's been massive, it has helped people be a lot braver with their homes and therefore create more ambitious schemes. I think it also has helped people respect the process of design and recognise the level of work that goes into creating a well put together scheme.