DE S IGN CENTRE
SARAH WALTER BOYD
Having worked for Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler for a decade, Walter Boyd started her own business in summer 2024. She’s based between south London and Winchester.
What inspires you? The obvious one is nature. But I also really love architecture: if you strip everything back and look at the building you're dealing with, it just simplifies things for me.
Is there any business advice you wish you’d known when you started out? Pace yourself and set boundaries. The ease with which the work/life separation becomes completely muddied did almost take me by surprise. Clear guides and daily reminders of priorities have helped me hugely in regaining structure.
What’s the thread that runs through every scheme, regardless of the aesthetic? A good scheme just fits its location and its user, and should never look overworked, in my opinion. Strong base lines should be in place (with key furniture, finishes and colours) then these lines are softened with antiques, lighting and textiles. Just like a smudge of one’s eyeliner makes things look immediately lived-in and therefore less contrived!
Describe your style in three words Timeless, effortless, comfortable.
What’s your latest discovery at the Design Centre? I’m always inspired when I go into Turnell & Gigon. When you’re working on your own you can struggle a bit, but then showrooms become your friends. You can feel like you’re out in the big wide world, but as soon as you’re in the Harbour, you’re in a safe space.
RACHAEL GOWDRIDGE
Having worked at leading design practices including David Collins Studio, Martin Brudnizki Design Studio and Ennismore International, Gowdridge set up her design practice in 2021.
Is there any business advice you wish you’d known when you started out? I initially felt the pressure to take on every opportunity that came my way, but I’ve come to learn the value of being selective and focusing on projects that align with our studio’s ethos and strengths. Building a clear identity for your business – knowing what you stand for and who your ideal client is – makes such a difference in attracting the right work.
What are the details that matter the most to you in your work? One of my favourite parts of the design journey is introducing art and sculpture to an interior. I try to help clients understand that building an art collection doesn’t need to be eye-wateringly expensive. While there are always key "hero” pieces that can be investments, there are a wealth of fantastic places to source antique originals, limited-edition print runs or pieces from up-and-coming artists that won’t blow the budget and can really make a difference.
What is your style in three words?’ Authentic, refined, layered.
What’s your latest discovery at the Design Centre? We’ve worked with August + Co on two Pinton tapestries for a project in Oxford. It’s been great learning about this centuries-old craft process (Pinton’s roots date back to 1867!).
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© Chris Horwood
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