My love of good design stretches back a long time – I’ve always been drawn to unusual and beautiful things. Even as a child my parents noticed how I arranged objects and spaces to look as captivating as possible. I believe this instinct is something we all share to a degree. As the world constantly shifts, some things endure and our collective desire to create ‘goodness’ offers solace and sustains us through turbulent times. From my beginnings as a small boutique on Walton Street in London’s Chelsea over 21 years ago, I’ve always prioritised human craft – the treasures created around the world, waiting to be discovered and appreciated. This anniversary has prompted me to reflect on what we’ve built with intention over the past two decades. I’ve handpicked a team of original, expert designers who share my passion for creativity and connection. Together, we’ve built a global reputation for exquisitely crafted, beautifully detailed interiors that set new standards in innovation, luxury and comfort.
Designing a beautiful space is like breathing life into a building—we add colour, texture, form and personality. What could be more human? Every project is different because every client is unique. People come to us for our appreciation of beauty and the relationships we’ve built with artisans across the globe. Nearly every piece of furniture, joinery and soft furnishing is created from scratch. Finishes and fabrics are hand-selected, often woven or crafted by the globe’s most eminent makers and through our support, many of these artisans are able to grow and pass on their knowledge.
Though we source around the world, our work has a distinctly European sensibility – clients are drawn to the craftsmanship, richness of finish and detailing. I love introducing the work of master artisans to every project and supporting the centuries-old legacy of Europe’s ateliers is a true privilege. It brings me joy to play a part – in partnership with my clients – in protecting these intricate, historically rich skills as without our support they are at risk of fading away. We all need to take the creative path less travelled. Swimming against the tide matters. I often look for inspiration beyond the design world. My style has evolved through travel; every culture I’ve encountered adds depth and patina to my work and while architecture, fashion, literature and art inspire me, nature remains my greatest influence. The beauty and diversity of the natural world is an enduring source of comfort. My aesthetic is ever-evolving but always rooted in nature. Its beauty is infinite and this includes our human nature and sensibilities.
Every aspect of our work is grounded in relationships – with our clients, our suppliers, our wider community and amongst our team. That’s why I’m not overly concerned about future trends – no machine can replicate humanity’s drive to connect adn create beauty. At the heart of every Katharine Pooley space is a tailored expression of the client’s passions, realised with our artistic approach and created with expert artisans. We’ve completed many extraordinary projects but one in the South of France stands out. It’s the largest remaining estate on the Côte d’Azur: a legendary Belle Époque chateau with sublime Mediterranean views and historic gardens. Built in the 19th century, it became iconic in 1955 as the set for Hitchcock’s To Catch a Thief. After 60 years of private ownership, the Château required meticulous restoration to return it to its historic and cinematic splendour. Hundreds of Europe’s finest artisans brought our vision to life using traditional techniques from cultures including but not limited to England, France and Italy. The interiors include 42 hand-embroidered textiles from six couture-grade ateliers; 13 hand-painted frescos, silk wallpapers and panels from eight studios; 28 bespoke or antique chandeliers from Murano and Bohemia; 22 hand-woven silk rugs; and over 150 bespoke furniture pieces crafted in 10 traditional workshops.
Every home is a haven no matter what size. In design, nuance, emotion and human perspective will always matter, these are the qualities that give our industry’s work depth and originality. Whatever purpose a residence, room or area is created for, it must be created with sustainability, longevity and beauty at their core. The best way to do this is prioritising the best suppliers. We constantly educate ourselves and evolve our practices, prioritising local sourcing and working with suppliers who share our values. We search for the most dedicated craftspeople—those who live and breathe their craft, honed over generations. True luxury is the subtle balance of comfort, environmental awareness, intelligent design and unforgettable beauty, but luxury should have a conscience. It is the appreciation of beauty, innovation and craft and should not be impacted by efficiency. At Katharine Pooley, our creative principles are simple: never compromise on quality, authenticity or originality. This commitment keeps us at the forefront of global design. Bringing the best of the world’s craftsmanship, of what humans can create, is and always will be, at the heart of every project.
