In conversation with
Annabel Grimshaw
This month we're shining a spotlight on the work of interior designer Annabel Grimshaw. Bold colour, fearless pattern mixing, and a view that hardware is never an afterthought. Keep reading to find out how she approaches a project - and why the small things make all the difference.
On Colour
You lean into colour - deep greens, rich reds, soft pinks. How do you decide on a palette, and how do you help clients feel confident with bolder choices?
The room, the house, the client, the light, and the feeling we want to portray all have a part in which colours we choose to set the tone. When I design a room I often have an idea of the paint or wall covering colour at the beginning. Maybe not the exact shade, but near enough. I am lucky that my clients trust me, but I would never push them towards something they really don't feel comfortable with. I think they know that if they are working with me they are going to get some fairly strong colour choices!
On Pattern
There's a lot of pattern mixing across your projects - wallpaper, gingham, florals. How do you know when it's working and when it's too much?
I absolutely love fabrics and all the patterns, colours and designs out there. It's probably my favourite part of decorating, and where you can really make a home feel unique. I've always been a bit "more is more", but I think there is a point where it can start to feel like too much. It can take a bit of time and some trial and error to get there, but I always know when it feels right.
On Old Versus New
Your projects balance traditional architectural features with fresh colour and pattern. How do you approach respecting a house's character while still making it feel contemporary?
I think older houses can take a lot of colour and pattern - they often have large rooms and high ceilings, so I like to use these elements to make them feel more cosy, characterful, and interesting. The architecture lends itself to furniture and shapes with a more classic sensibility, which I then modernise with contemporary fabrics and unexpected colour combinations. When you start layering in vintage and antique pieces, a pop of colour and a mix of art, it creates a very modern approach to decorating.
ON THE DETAILS
The small details - handles, hooks, switches - can often be an afterthought. How early in a project do you start thinking about hardware?
As early as possible. The little details really do make all the difference. The handle you choose can completely change the feel of a kitchen or a piece of joinery - it can make something feel more contemporary, playful or elegant. It also adds to the overall experience; it's so much more enjoyable to use a beautifully designed switch or handle.
ON MG&CO.
Your projects feature several MG&Co pieces. What is it about the brand that you keep coming back to?
MG&Co. pieces feel playful, unique and thoughtfully designed. They're easy to work into lots of different spaces, but bring something a bit special - whether that's through colour, texture or shape. They're the kind of pieces that can elevate a room, and quite importantly, I also think they offer very good value for money.