Spaces speak as loudly as the people who inhabit them. If the walls could talk, we’d hear subtle whispers, like untold stories that beg to be heard. It’s the connections we share in a room that move us, that keep us alive and inspire us. With that in mind, we design our space with a newfound vigor. Home is not only reflective of what’s pleasing to the senses, but the genuine way it makes us yearn for comfort.
British Interior Designer, Kelly Hoppen, practices storytelling through this calming sentiment. Authenticity lives at the heart of her brand, where she sincerely connects with clients to unearth their deepest desires for a space. The London-based professional believes clean lines instill balance and harmony. Grounding her clients with earthy colors and artisan textures, Hoppen takes her affinity for neutral to a new realm. “I love getting into a client’s mind, understanding their lifestyle, and how they want to feel in their space.” she said passionately. “It isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a sanctuary.”
Hoppen not only achieves ease through her work, but in how she embodies herself as a human being. The diligent designer, author, and entrepreneur exudes a peaceful demeanor, relaying an occasional word of wisdom or soothing affirmation on her social feed; but her profound sensibility turns into words on the pages of her book, East Meets West, which deeply portrays her design philosophy. She has an identifiable elegance too –whether it’s her perfectly round eyeglasses, curly red hair, or exceptionally-fitted trouser collection.
Fashion is clearly no foreign term to her either. The designer of four decades speaks highly of her well-curated closet. “I would say that my wardrobe, especially my day-to-day items, is a reflection of my brand,” Hoppen said. Similar to her business, she selects timelessness over trends, choosing staples like dresses, jackets, shoes, and handbags that continue to appeal to her for decades. (Admittedly, she confessed that some of her favorites have lived for over 30 years in her closet.) It’s a testament to her ageless design, as well, since her work remains beautiful and relevant for nearly a lifetime.
Confidence and appeal, though, haven’t always come easy to the now-successful designer. As a shy child with dyslexia, Hoppen was relentlessly bullied in her youth. She also lost her father when she was just 16 years old. By harnessing grit through hardship, success became her light at the end of the tunnel. Hoppen now leads a life with purpose as she maintains an optimistic outlook amidst an ever-evolving career.
She attributes her fresh perspective to travel, music, and art. “Travelling always opens my eyes to new colours, textures, and ways of living,” Hoppen remarked. “It’s like a breath of fresh air for the mind.” With regard to music, she acknowledges its ability to set a mood, which in turn influences feelings about a space. She believes art, in a way, does the same – like how a recently built home with obscure decor blurs the line of new and old, a rich paradox that makes spaces feel more intriguing.
Trends in interior design are becoming remarkably simple, too. Embracing roots in wellness and sustainability, interiors are leaning away from elaborate finishes and, instead, finding curiosity in the conscious craft. “People are increasingly seeking spaces that promote well-being, focusing on natural materials, maximising natural light, and integrating more plants and water features,” Hoppen said. Materials like wood, jute, and cork that promote sustainable living may become more enticing to display, too. Gravitating towards the ease of nature, homemade items like this are held closer to the heart.
The South-African born designer boasts a diverse portfolio of environments – including yachts, cruise ships, private jets, 5-star hotels, commercial properties, and private homes. Previous collaborations include Celebrity Cruises, British Airways, and Restoration Hardware, to name a few. Her sense of “opulent warmth” is obvious in any project, almost taking one’s breath away when they enter her recently-decorated rooms. Truly, it’s the subtle grandeur that defines her so well and catches the attention of those who seek her services.
A recent project involved a boutique “hotel on water” for Miami-based subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Group, Celebrity Cruises. It was a refreshing new concept that sought to redefine the maritime industry. Hoppen and team also launched a comprehensive design for the Pearl 82, a compact superyacht featuring a remarkable five en-suite stateroom layout. “It felt like a home away from home on sea for me,” Hoppen recalled fondly.
And if home is where the heart is, then Hoppen’s heart lives close to her family, too. As a source of inspiration, Hoppen’s mother was a determined career woman who left quite an impression on her daughter. “She instilled in me discipline, confidence, and dedication,” Hoppen recalled. “She was truly a force to be reckoned with.”
The late British designer, Sir Terence Conran, had a strong influence on the young Hoppen as well. She noted his transformative qualities in shaping the future of the industry in a beautifully domineering way. Another famous name she admires is Ralph Lauren, the timeless icon known for his equestrian country style. His warm and memorable aesthetic became a household name. “He never lost sight of his identity,” Hoppen recalled. “It’s very much what I have always aspired to do with my brand.”
When it comes to fabrics, Hoppen enjoys the tantalizing qualities of boucles, velvets, and faux leather. But there’s something she admires most about linen, with its undeniably light and ethereal quality. She delights in how linen is dainty yet natural, with a subtle texture that is imperfect. “It has a wonderful understated elegance,” Hoppen said.
An elegance, one might say, that is reminiscent of the designer herself. Without knowing it, she may possess an air of timelessness like that of Ralph Lauren. But if there’s one thing we know for sure, her brand has a clear path forward, rooted in identifiable strength. Her brand, and everything it stands for, will remain. “The spaces I create must always be functional,” Hoppen said, “encouraging those who live in them to fully engage in how they love to live.”
Looking for more inspiration for your designs? Check out our home-decor section, here.