Angel magazine, June 2008
Problem solvers
North London has an abundance of people who can transform your home when all seems lost – so we have decided to dedicate a column to them. First up is Kia Richardson of Revelloyd Interior Design
For regular visitors to Islington’s Upper Street, you will know that Revelloyd Interior Design has long been a fixture in this shopper’s paradise. Over time, they realized that the public were keen on a little more direction to achieve their dream home – so up stepped interior designer Kia Richardson. “I love going to work every day,” she says on her role – even when she’s faced with a tricky problem…
THE CHALLENGE
“Probably my most rewarding job was for a house in Gibson Square, N1. The lady who owned it had been having problems with her living room shutters ever since she bought the house 15 years ago – she was never able to use both! The TV unit that was in place was too deep and coming out further than the shutters, meaning she couldn’t close them. She also has two daughters who want to go into producing, so they have an amazing collection of CDs and DVDs. She wanted to make the most out of storage.”
THE SOLUTION
“I designed new wall units and brought other pieces of furniture in, making sure they weren’t too deep. I built them all from scratch to ensure the depth was correct, going for a classic Parisian, but chic look. In total, I think it took us six and a half weeks – most bespoke pieces take 10 to 12 weeks to make, but this was in the run up to Christmas and it was a requirement to have everything done before the holidays.
“The client was also interested in a ‘Changing Rooms’ approach, so I had three days to get all the furniture in! It was probably the most stressful experience of my life, but it was fun. I lived in her living room for three days! I enjoy these kinds of challenges. I do speak to a lot of interior designers who complain about their clients, but I absolutely love these jobs.
“There’s never a set design to any room. People may look at my portfolio, but every job is so different. Interior designing should be for the client and for their needs – and that’s what I love about the job!”
You can view Kia’s online portfolio at www.revelloydinteriordesign.co.uk, and also pop into 124-125 Upper Street, Islington, N1 1QP; 020 7226 8501.
To view Kia's Online Portfolio please click here.