Maria Chandler - Become Interiors Ltd

KICK OFF:
I'm fresh back from a lovely couple of weeks in Zakynthos, where the weather was crazy hot, but that just meant we did a whole lot of relaxing. We saw gorgeous beaches and seas of varying shades, plus I even managed to read nearly 4 books - unheard of!
This week sees me kicking off a few projects, new and existing. Yesterday I had the pleasure of visiting my clients who have recently completed their Phase 1 building works, have had a pause, and are now raring to move onto Phase 2 which will see their existing ground floor reconfigured and redesigned to give them the space of their dreams. Watch this space for updates over the next few months.
Later this week I'm super excited to kick off a new project in the Cotswolds, where I'll be helping a lovely couple who are extending and restoring a gorgeous cottage and who need help devising the look and feel for their ground floor spaces. They are colour and pattern-lovers looking to create a unique, characterful space that really reflects them, which I am totally here for!! Can't wait.
Next week, I will continue working with my clients on their gorgeous Victorian family home, again involving space planning and personality driven interiors. And finally next month, I will restart working with lovely clients who have now asked me to design their principal bedroom, ensuite and study! Busy busy 😅
I'm in my element when working with clients who are brave, who want a bold, characterful spaces and who trust me to design the homes of their dreams. I'll keep you posted!
Maria

Delighted to have my work published on Houzz stories this week. I absolutely loved working on this project and the statement wallpaper was one of the ways I injected character into this wonderful client's space.

Read my tip for using bold wallpaper below.

4 Rooms With Retro-inspired Wallpaper Designers share how they used bold wallpaper patterns to dramatic effect

DEVELOPING A SCHEME:
I recently shared an exciting new design direction that was approved and since then, I've had fun developing that scheme. In this phase, I research furniture, lighting, accessories, finishes and materials, as well as drawing up preliminary joinery drawings, which I then present to my clients in their very own personalised shopping catalogue. I always love this phase, as you start to see how the layers of items build up towards a gorgeous cohesive scheme. No churning out designs here - every single one I work on is precisely considered and as unique as my clients themselves!
I've received loads of samples this week, including these two beautiful wallpapers. The question is, which to pick! Do you have a favourite? Do let me know...
I'm just off to sit on a few sofas I'm considering for this scheme, then heading straight out to see the Constituent at the Old Vic - can't wait. Foo Fighters tomorrow evening too, so think I'll be due a rest on Sunday. Have great weekends all!
Maria

TEEN DREAMS:
One of my favourite rooms to design are teen spaces and here's one I created earlier.

Designing for this super-creative, artistic teen client was an absolute joy. I needed to squeeze every possible bit of storage into their compact and awkwardly shaped room, so I designed this bespoke corner desk, with two drawers and concealed shelving on three sides as part of the solution. The right hand side even includes secret shelves accessed from the outside, when in bed! It's the perfect desk to write at, draw at, get ready at... and dream about an exciting future! It'll stand the test of time and see this teen well into the coming years and beyond.

When you work with me, the result is a truly personalised space, that not only looks great but also reflects your needs too. Swipe to see the before photo and check out my grid to see more photos of this little haven. Dreamy...

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TRANSFORMING HOMES:
Sometimes you have to look back, to see how far you've come, so here's a little game for you...
My warm and bubbly client longed for a kitchen diner with an improved layout, that invited them and their guests to spend more time within the space...and that just said something about them! Through some clever spatial planning, with a pinch of building work and a strong dose of character, I think we took this space from adequate to awesome.
I'd love to know if you can spot the differences? Some elements are harder to spot than others, which just goes to show that even small tweaks can help improve your home. You just need to know how...
And of course, that's where I can help, so do reach out if you'd like to make a difference to your own home.
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STORAGE MATTERS:
It certainly does! Most of my clients mention an urgent need to improve storage within their homes. Whether it's books, shoes, bags, paperwork or just the general clutter of life, good storage means there is a place for everything, allowing the pretty things to take centre stage.
Here, my fabulous clients were looking for a clever solution to house their favourite books, scores of records, their many boards games and much more, whilst also wanting to display accessories and art.
Cue this slick and discrete library wall and cabinet combo, which I had sprayed in the same colour as the walls, to offer a deep and dark backdrop to these contrasting paintings, as well as this bold accent chair. You would never know just how much is stored inside this piece because it is doing its job beautifully and hiding everything behind the touch-close doors. Huge thanks of course to wonderful for bringing my designs to life! Of course, good tradespeople matter too 💙
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GET COSY:
I do love a deep dark wall colour to set off a comforting, cosy vibe, especially in a TV snug. Not only does it provide a fabulous backdrop to any punchy, bolder colours, but using a dark colour on the walls also tricks the eye away from our beloved TV, whilst a lovely fireplace can draw the attention as a focal point.
In another nod to this property's art deco roots, green was always going to be one of my go-to tones. My clients were originally considering a mid green for this space, but I was thrilled when they agreed to this gorgeous shade called from wonderful . Isn't it such a fab colour? It changes with the light and has such depth - I love it. Along with the brass and black touches, the marble table top and my client's fabulous styling, it's a cosy deco delight. Just add cocktails I say! Happy weekend all 🍸

FIND YOUR HAPPY:
I love introducing pops of colour into my home, to energise the space, to make it feel informal and to brighten any dull corners.
I was recently this cute photo print by , a lovely husband and wife photographer duo who specialise in street photography prints from their travels all over the world. This little scene caught my eye, not only because the colours match beautifully with those found in my home...but because the sweet words just brought me joy and remind me of times spent at that famous Brighton seaside over the years!
Creating little 'moments' like this in your home helps to personalise your space and bring joy to your interiors. I think my new print looks very happy here, don't you?

SAY SOMETHING:
What does your kitchen say? When I work with clients, one of the first things I aim to discover is the feeling they would like their spaces to evoke. I usually encapsulate this into three or four 'guiding words', which should be reflected in any choices made throughout the project, with the aim being to design a space that really speaks of those I am designing it for. It's a little trick I was trained in where I studied interior design and something I use every day.
Here, my client wanted their kitchen to feel fresh, harmonious and timeless. I combined gentle textures within the architectural choices, such as the wooden doors and , alongside zesty pops of colour throughout the space. The result is a wonderfully inviting and sociable kitchen-diner that invites you to linger and says so much more about my client, than the kitchen they inherited when they bought the property. Swipe to see the before photo and have a peek through my grid for some more fab pics.
When designing a new space, spend a little time thinking about what you would like it to say about you and how you'd like to it feel, then let this guide you through all the choices you make. It's a way of filtering down the vast array of options out there and gets you that bit closer to your dream space...
And if you need a little help with that, you know where I am!
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HELLO INSPO:
I've been out of office for a few days, on a Munich city break, which also included an overnight stay in an alpine 'huette' for a friend's big birthday. Only accessible by cable car plus hiking, or by skiing, it was a challenging, awesome adventure to get there and housed us for a fabulously cosy and crazy night of partying! What a treat 💚
Themes I observed across Bavarian interiors seem to include honest craftsmanship, wood surfaces throughout, well balanced functionality and form, elements of exuberance alongside tradition, all wrapped up with a feeling of being made to feel very welcome. Lots to reflect on there and some great aspects to be found in nature-inspired interior design schemes. Can't wait to put my latest inspiration into ongoing and new projects!
(📷 by wonderful who really puts you at ease and is a delight to work with)

YOU'RE WELCOME:
A well groomed hallway can do wonders for welcoming your guests and this beauty is a fine example of just how to do it.
The first trick here was to lay seamless flooring from front to back, leading the eye through the house and giving a sense of space and direction.
By painting the stairs, panelling and handrails in this statement colour, definition was given to the architectural details, whilst their boldness holds your attention and creates impact. A contrasting striped stair runner gives visual contrast and is super practical too for the busiest carpet in the home!
Swipe to see the reverse view, where my client cleverly opted for a front door with sidelight, ensuring a good dose of light pours into the space - always a bonus.
I adore how this hallway turned out! The result is a striking entrance that has real wow factor and I think, gives visitors a wonderful welcome, don't you agree?

IT'S ABOUT YOU:
When you commission me to work on your project, I always start with a design brief session: I want to know about your tastes and preferences, your wishes and no-nos, how you respond to colours, textures and patterns, plus importantly, how you want to feel in your space. I do this because I am all about teasing your design personality out of you and injecting it into your precious home.
This photo depicts my own interpretation of home. I have a passion for colour and bold pattern, along with a strong connection with nature, probably instilled by my Dad's lifelong love of gardening and the great outdoors. I wanted an informal and youthful vibe throughout the spaces, to energise and lift our spirits and to invite our guests to have fun and feel welcomed. We love our home, because it reflects us and is uniquely ours.
And so, I apply this concept to my work, every day... I strive to create spaces that are characterful, unique and speak of their owners. Along the way, of course I will make suggestions or decisions through my own eyes, but ultimately I want you to love where live when we finally part ways, because after all...your home is about you.

PICTURE THIS:
When designing spaces, I often look for ways to help my clients feel more connected with the outdoors and you'll come to know that I do love a picture window! I try to incorporate seating when possible, as I think it's a fabulous way to add a casual place to enjoy drinks, a quiet reading spot, a place to gaze over a manicured garden or even a cosy nook to snooze.
This gorgeous box window feature was part of the design direction I developed for a fabulous colour-loving client, who wanted a bold and beautiful kitchen, with subtle period influences and layered textures. I'm in love and could happily while away the afternoon, enjoying a brew and the view! Couldn't you?
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PEACHY KEEN:
Happy New Year to you all! Did you have a good break? Mine has been super busy and lovely: hosting precious family, days of cooking massive feasts, plus a few catchups with friends for good measure. Coming back to work seems like a well earned rest!
I noticed the latest colour of the year 2024 is announced as Peach Fuzz, a tender and cosy shade, that evokes a feeling of calm and a desire of togetherness. I'm a fan, as depicted in this teen bedroom I designed a couple of years ago. Used with interesting contrasting colours, layered with delicate pattern and grounded with natural material, I think it's a delicious treat. Thoughts?
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BRING JOY:
One of my key objectives when working with clients, is to bring their personalities into their homes, to make their spaces feel the way they want them to...and to maybe have some fun along the way.
Planning building works, renovations and refurbishments can feel daunting, with decision fatigue often creeping in, often resulting in easier or blander choices being made. It's my job to take some of that away, by designing spaces that reflect my clients whilst bringing joy into the process, with a vision of how their home will look and feel on the inside. Good vibes go a long way!
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GOOD AS NEW:
and I'm thinking about this lovely dine-in kitchen I designed back in 2020, which I recently revisited.
I love going back to old projects and seeing the spaces I've spent hours imagining, being used, loved and embellished, to fully take on the personalities of my clients.
The concept I developed for this project was an informal mix of modern and vintage, with natural textures and materials, nature inspired colours and small touches of luxury. The table and chairs chosen by the owner perfectly suit the concept, completing this inviting hub of their home.
This will always be one of my fave kitchens and I think it'll stand the test of time... don't you? 💚🤎

CHEERS:
Welcoming this wet, rainy weekend with warm memories of summer and this capture of the window bar I designed for my client, where the bifold opening allows her to prep the drinks inside, whilst her friends get to enjoy being outside.
I'm a big fan of inside-outside living and am always looking for ways to improve my clients' experiences and enjoyment of their homes, so was thrilled when this element of my design got the go ahead. Perfect for sipping on a G&T whilst having a catchup, I hear it's one of my client's favourite features of her new kitchen diner... I expect it's a fave of her guests too?!
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OUTSIDE IN:
Since nature is a key inspiration of mine, it seems I'm always looking for ways to connect spaces with the outdoors. In this particular project, I wanted to improve the sense of light and space, plus give my client an improved view of her lovely garden.
Swipe to see the small window that had been installed by the property's developers... To me this really was a missed opportunity, so I designed her new kitchen diner with not only a wider opening, but also a bifold window set at the same height as the bar top, creating a bar that sweeps from inside to outside.
Perfect for throwing open when the sun shines, for handing out dishes when eating al fresco and for serving cocktails to friends from the stylish new kitchen. Mine's a mojito! What's yours?
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SERVING IT FRESH:
You know that I love me some colour, and in this project, I developed a fresh, harmonious and lighthearted palette to reflect my client's wonderfully vivacious character.
Isn't this bar inviting? The room was enlarged by borrowing just 65cm from the lounge next door and I designed the kitchen to accommodate a peninsula, offering lots of extra storage, plus a casual spot to grab breakfast, to catch up on emails or to host friends for cocktails whilst prepping dinner. On the left, you can see a cheeky sneak peak of another feature I designed... More on that another time!
Swipe to see how this kitchen looked before the Become Interiors touch. I always aim to bring my clients' personalities to their spaces and create designs that speak of them. I think I hit the brief... What do you think?
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REWIND:
I had the pleasure of revisiting one of my clients this morning, who kindly allowed me to show off the gorgeous flooring I sourced for their project a few years ago, to some new clients. The beautiful floor in Pear is a stunner and even after all this time, it looks like new and is one of my faves!
I adored working on this project, where the design concept I developed was about balancing vintage with modern, whilst referencing colours of nature. My client and I fell in love with the 'Epicerie' desk that fitted the brief beautifully and looks so at home now, in this space, and she has done an amazing job of continuing her collection of vintage pieces. The striking artwork really sits beautifully too, don't you think?
I so love revisiting the spaces I've designed. What a great way to end the week 💚

FUN FACTOR 50:
Summer's hot sunny days may be over, but don't forget to apply your fun factor, when designing interiors!
My client was keen to create a fresh, inviting and sociable kitchen, they would want to spend more time in... Somewhere to perch and catch up with work, somewhere to take a break from the day and somewhere to entertain friends and family.
Swipe to see the before pic and you will see how injecting my client's cheerful personality, plus a little Become Interiors fun factor into the space, has provided a kitchen that ticks all the boxes and more, don't you think?
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ALL CHANGE:
Sometimes it's good to switch things up, to make a space work better:
* In this kitchen I rotated the main cooking zone to face out towards the main garden, but also increased the side window to give a floor to ceiling view of the side garden.
* I also designed a huge peninsula with full depth cabinets on both sides, offering tons of storage, plus a generous overhang to allow 4 to sit comfortably across.
* The tall cabinet you see is a hide and slide cabinet, with doors that open and slide into the sides, to stay open for as long as you want. It cleverly conceals a toaster, food mixers, bar items, drinks and lots of crockery, helping to ensure the new space stays looking as slick and uncluttered as it does here.
Little changes can make the biggest difference, don't you think?
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EXIST LOUDLY:
I was introduced to this phrase a couple of years ago, when designing my young client's bedroom.
As a creative soul with a love of music and travel, I adored working with them to develop this scheme, which saw oriental influences and bold choices. The whimsical patterns are transportative and the colours are striking yet soothing, while the forms of the headboard and lighting add visual interest.
Always one for practicality as well as style, I designed plenty of storage into this compact yet characterful room, including this wonderful bespoke desk and custom divan bed.
The gallery wall and in fact, many elements of the room were inspired by my client's beloved poster of their favourite artist and when I asked them for a phrase to have made into a neon print (just seen to the right), the answer was: Exist Loudly.
Perfectly fitting don't you think?

(EN)SUITE DREAMS:
Nestled in the eaves of this home was an ample but awkward shower room, that needed some serious design TLC.
My clients had always dreamed of adding a bath into the space, giving access to the eaves, creating extra storage, having privacy from the road and gaining a double basin too. Pitched roofs can be challenging and awkward spaces, but I am always driven by my clients dreams for their homes so after some deliberating, I managed to tick all those boxes to find the perfect solution!
To bring character and movement, the pretty lily pad tiles were laid on a slant and the side wall follows a honeycomb effect to bring interest behind the mirror.
This ensuite has now earned it's place in my clients' home and will be loved for years to come... So that's my dream wishlist ticked too.
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SWEET DREAMS:..are made of leaves?
The brief for this project was to design an inviting and calming space for a teen client with a compact room and big ideas.
Working with young adults is my favourite! That desire to be expressive, experimental and assertive, along with the need for their own retreat to while away the hours or chill with friends, means that teen rooms are usually my opportunity to get really creative.
The result was this inviting, powdery scheme of dusty blues, blush pinks and gentle greens, with nature inspired patterns and layers of textiles to add to the comfort factor. Sweet dreams indeed...
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BOLDLY GO:
When designing this cloakroom, I was keen to create something eye catching, whilst of course ensuring practicality for the family who'd be using it daily.
I proposed that we should continue the statement tiles you previously saw in the hallway, into the cloakroom and up the facing wall. The full width mirror enlarges the space and is actually a huge bespoke cabinet adding plenty of storage to this little room. Wall hung furniture keeps the floor clear and gives a sleek look, whilst the mid height recess is a space for accessories which also gently diffuses light at night.
I was so happy that my clients were brave and went along with my vision... Well, when you've 'gotta go', why not boldly go?.
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WINDOW SEAT:
You might have noticed I'm partial to a feature window? I think it's such a lovely way to connect with the outdoors, to bring light into a space and to create a wonderful view through the property from the moment you step into a house (another thing I will always try to do!).
When reviewing the plans for this renovation, I spotted an opportunity to create a wonderful window seat within this kitchen, envisaging it as somewhere to perch with a book for a cup of coffee, for kids to sit and talk about their day or for friends to grab a glass of wine whilst dinner is being made. I was so thrilled when my client jumped on board and was delighted to see the upholstery she sourced, when I revisited this week 👌🏻
When working with clients, I care passionately about championing their needs every step of the way, plus love to find those little extras, that create a wow moment and make them adore their homes even more!
And I think this window seat does just that. I know I'd love to sit here and enjoy the view. Wouldn't you?

BOLD & BEAUTIFUL:
Selecting bold colours can sometimes feel risky, but this gorgeous kitchen goes to prove that you can create a timeless, striking and elegant look when you make brave choices. I'm in love!
Here my client has totally run with the design direction I created. Influenced by the art deco period in which the property was built, it incorporated deep blues and greens, with touches of brass and luxurious stone. I also proposed a window seat for casual catchups or a quiet coffee by the garden...but more on that next time!
Would you dare to go bold?

WOW FACTOR:
What's teeny weeny but beautifully formed? This cloakroom!
Yesterday I was delighted to revisit a client I worked with earlier this year, who'd approached me at the beginning of their building work on their art deco family home. She'd asked for my help with spatial planning the ground floor and to develop a design direction for their new space. I particularly loved working on this project, as the client shares a love of bold colour and pattern, and was open to incorporating my ideas to elevate her space and bring her striking character into the look of her home. She has done a fantastic job of pulling it all together...
Cue this stunning cloakroom that really packs a punch, from the gorgeous wallpaper, to the deep green shiplap and those wonderful deco-inspired tiles. Your cloakroom offers a wonderful opportunity to create a 'moment' for you and all your guests... We don't spend long in them do we, so why not make that visit well worth it?!
Swipe for a few snaps - I'm in love 😍
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