Why Collaboration is at the Heart of Kinder Design (and Why It Makes Me a Better Interior Designer)

As an interior designer, one of my favourite parts of this job isn’t just the colours, fabrics, layouts, or materials - it’s the people. Collaboration is a huge part of what makes working in interior design so rewarding. Whether it’s a residential renovation, a commercial fit-out, or a school interiors project (like the one I’m sharing here!), working alongside other creative professionals elevates the process -and the final result. This photo captures a moment of celebration with my friend and fellow designer, @phoebe_lewis, after we completed a joyful school interiors project last year. Phoebe is a talented interior architect based in Walthamstow, and we first connected through Instagram. What started as a digital connection turned into a real-life collaboration and friendship - proof that social media really can be a great place to meet your creative tribe. If you’re looking for a brilliant interior designer in East London, Phoebe is one to watch!

At Kinder Design, I love working alongside other designers, architects, makers, and specialist trades to bring colour-filled, characterful spaces to life. I’ve never seen fellow designers as competition - especially in today’s challenging economic climate. Instead, I believe there’s so much strength in community. And honestly, when you’re trying to build beautiful spaces and a small business, you need all the support you can get.

I’m also lucky to be part of an informal online network of over 70 interior designers across the UK. We’re constantly chatting in our WhatsApp group - sharing advice, contacts, lessons learned, and celebrating wins (big and small). There’s something really powerful about being surrounded by people who get it, whether you're navigating tricky client briefs, sourcing a niche material, or just trying to figure out your invoicing system!

Running your own interior design business means you need to be a designer, a marketer, a project manager, a spreadsheet wizard, and a creative visionary all rolled into one. That’s where mentors and business support can make a huge difference. I’m hugely grateful to Julia (@recipeforaroom) and Calandre (@up.with.the.lark), who have been so generous with their insight and guidance over the past few years. Kinder Design wouldn’t be where it is without that kind of support.

So yes - interior design is about creating beautiful, functional spaces. But for me, it’s also about relationships, community, and shared creativity. That’s what truly brings a space to life. And if you’re dreaming up a colourful design for your home or commercial project and are looking for a collaborative, creative interior designer in South East London - Kinder Design would love to help, get in touch here!