We talk to Lauren Gilberthorpe about interior design, lighting and how to make a room ‘beautifully timeless’…
Lauren Gilberthorpe has created beautiful interiors for clients across the UK, and now runs a studio and the LGI Design School in the Cotswolds. We caught up with Lauren for a special Q&A…
How did you get started as an interior designer?
In my head I began my career as an interior designer at the age of five where I loved moving my bedroom furniture around with my mum, and decorating my dolls houses. I went to university at the Winchester School of Art and straight into work with the Laura Ashley Design Service. Following a couple of years there I then worked for a couple of high-end design companies before starting my own business three years ago. 
Image: Lauren Gilberthorpe Interiors 
Image: Lauren Gilberthorpe Interiors 
Image: Lauren Gilberthorpe Interiors
How would you describe your interior design style?
I would say my style is a mix of Living Etc and Home and Garden magazine. Predominantly I believe in creating designs that are beautifully timeless. I always aim to create homes that tell my clients story, I love showing my clients round their newly installed homes and leaving knowing they have a home they will love for a lifetime. I also love colour and you’ll always notice a pop here and there in my schemes. Although I definitely have a style I would also say this does depend on the project. Each project is so different and I really take the time to understand the client’s lifestyle and needs and make each project individual. 
Image: Lauren Gilberthorpe Interiors
Where do you get your inspiration from?
I am constantly being inspired from so many amazing designers from all around the world. I would say Instagram and Pinterest are probably my main sources of inspiration and I love finding new designers in magazines and then finding their social media accounts. I’ve also just returned from a trip to an international trade fair, Maison Objet, in Paris and that was just incredible for inspiration, I came away with a very long list of new supplies which is very exciting! I can’t wait to use them in new projects. 
Pooky's Wisteria lamp styled by Lauren. Image: Lauren Gilberthorpe Interiors
How does lighting play a part in your interiors?
Anyone who knows me will know I am lighting obsessed! I have always believed that you can spend a big budget on a space but if the lighting isn’t right it can completely let down a design. I think people might be surprised to learn that the rule of thumb is that you should have at least 8 sources of light per room. This might seem a bit extreme but you should definitely have more than one source, a mixture of task and ambient light and different heights around the room is essential. Lighting can be used in so many ways to highlight features in your space, I love using warm LED strip lighting in bespoke built in media units to light up decorative accessories. 
Image: Lauren Gilberthorpe Interiors
Which recent projects are you particularly proud of?
We had some great projects in 2017 but I would have to say a kitchen and garden project we are currently installing. I am so excited for this space to be finished! I just love every element so much, from the leather wall lights to tiles to cabinetry colour (Aquamarine by Little Greene).
Do you have any tips for creating a cosy corner in the home?
My number one tip for creating a cosy space is lighting (told you I was obsessed). I think this is definitely best achieved with lots of soft warm lamps and also lots of candles. Candlelight is the perfect glow for a cosy space. I think anywhere with a combination of soft lighting and a few soft blankets can make for the perfect cosy corner.
Finally we’ve got to ask you, what is your favourite Pooky light and why?
This is actually an easy question as I’ve always had a favourite Pooky light. It has to be the Paradiso table lamp in white wash. It looks like a simple lamp base but it just works so well, I’ve used it as a bedside light in a couple of projects. Although simple, this lamp definitely shouldn’t be underestimated, it’s height gives it a real dominance on a bedside and it works perfectly paired with a neutral straight empire shade. Paradiso table lamp in whitewash - shop here
You can see more of Lauren's fabulous work - and find out about the LGI Design School - on her website. You can also follow her on Instagram and Facebook.
