Designing Joy: Roisin Quinn’s Colourful Journey in Interior Design
EXPERTS 15.10.24
Crowned this year‘s winner of BBC’s Interior Design Masterclass, Roisin Quinn is the colour loving maximalist who celebrates pattern in her own unique style. Known for her confident use of wallpapers to transfer a space, she unapologetically embraces maximalism with such confidence we had to find out more…
Q. Describe yourself in 3 words.
Bold, joyful, traditional.
Q. You have a very distinctive style it’s hard to believe you have no professional training! Where did your love for colour and pattern come from?
I've always had an eye for colour and traditional design, but I never quite knew how to channel my creativity. That all changed when I was given the opportunity to design my parents' house. It was then that I realised interior design was so much more than just a bit of paint. It could be my career, and I discovered that I'm actually quite good at it. Every time I walk into my parents' house now, I find myself standing in awe, thinking, "How on earth did I do this?" With no previous interior design experience, I managed to transform an entire home. It still blows me away. This experience has shown me that when you put your mind to something you're passionate about, you can create magic.
Q: What you create is joyful and so uplifting, can you talk us through your design process and where you get your inspiration from?
Thank you so much! For me, it all starts with a feeling. When I walk into a space, I first envision the atmosphere I want to create. I take in the structure, the ceiling height, the walls, and the natural light. From there, the colour palette begins to form in my mind. I don't use any design software; everything stays in my head. I believe there's something deeply personal and intuitive about this process. I don't usually transfer my ideas to mood boards or digital tools—I trust my instincts and rely on my creative vision.
For me, relying on software can detract from the beauty and creativity of design. I want to keep my brain actively engaged and inspired. By not relying on technology, I maintain a direct connection to my creative process. This approach ensures that every design is a true reflection of my personal touch and unique vision. It's about preserving the authenticity and magic of the creative journey, allowing the design to evolve naturally from my initial feeling to the final realisation.
Q: You worked in a travel agency prior to entering Design Masters, where is the most inspiring place you have travelled to?
I used to send people to America to work at summer camps, a job I absolutely loved, and one I experienced myself years ago. I'm very passionate about travelling, and one of the main things I love about it is seeing the different architecture and interiors. I think my favourite place so far has to be Barcelona. There's such a beauty and elegance to their design. I was blown away by the architecture of the buildings, cathedrals, and homes. The city is a visual feast with its quaint apartments, bold and colourful hospitality interiors, and charming bars, restaurants, and cafes.
There’s intrigue everywhere you turn. Each corner of Barcelona offers a new discovery, whether it's a hidden gem of a café or a stunning piece of architectural art. Exploring the city's unique design elements has profoundly influenced my own approach to interior design, enriching my appreciation for blending tradition with innovation. Travelling and exploring different countries continue to inspire and shape my creative journey.
Q: There were some great guest judges on the show. What was the most useful piece of feedback you received and why?
I loved every single one of the guest judges. Out of the 8 weeks, I was only on the sofa 3 times, but one piece of feedback has stuck with me and influenced every design I've created since. Kelly Hoppen told me there's a skill in standing back, observing, and taking something out. At first, I worried that removing elements might dilute my style or my maximalist approach. However, I soon realised it wasn't about taking away from my vision; it was about refining and enhancing it. This advice has been invaluable, teaching me the importance of thoughtful editing in design. Kelly's insight taught me to appreciate the balance and harmony within a space. By standing back and observing, I can identify elements that may be overpowering or unnecessary. This process of refinement allows the essential features of a design to shine through, creating a more cohesive and impactful result. Implementing this approach has been transformative.
Each project I undertake now undergoes a meticulous review, where I step back, assess the overall composition, and carefully remove any excess. This method has allowed me to maintain my unique style while ensuring that every element serves a purpose and contributes to the overall aesthetic. This lesson from Kelly Hoppen has become a cornerstone of my design philosophy, reminding me that sometimes, less truly is more. It has enhanced my ability to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional, staying true to my maximalist roots while embracing the elegance of simplicity.
Q: What was the biggest highlight and lowlight of the show?
The highlight of the show was definitely meeting all the other designers and the incredible opportunities it has brought me. This experience is something people only dream about. From contemplating a career change to diving in and hoping for the best, fast forward a year, and I've won BBC1's Interior Design Masters and launched my own homeware range.
The interior design industry is immensely competitive and intense, so this truly is a dream come true. However, the lowlight was managing my energy and emotions. During the entirety of the show, my dad was struggling with cancer and was in the hospital. Knowing he was there kept me going and pushed me to give my best each week so I could call him and let him know I had made it through. Calling him after the final to tell him I had won was the best feeling in the world. Thankfully, he is doing much better now, but that period was definitely the hardest part. The show kept our family strong and gave us something positive to hold on to.
Q: You are firmly planted in the ‘more is more’ maximalist camp. Are you anti minimalist?
I definitely lean towards maximalist design, but regardless of the style, I appreciate good design that's thoughtfully executed and creates interest. Whether it's minimalist or brutalist, if it works, it works. For example, Matt from the show, who favours a brutalist style, loved my Ascot hospitality box, which was full-on maximalist. He said it was his favourite design that week. That feedback spoke volumes about Matt as a designer. He has a great eye and appreciates good design, no matter the style.
Q: Your designs are full of amazing materials, from dramatic wallpapers to layers of colourful textiles. Which are your favourite to work with and how do you choose what to put where?
I suppose it depends on what aspect of the space I'm focusing on, but I have a special affinity for working with wallpaper. To me, wallpaper can be the guiding star of a design project. It allows for such adventurous creativity and playfulness. It's amazing how the same wallpaper can inspire two completely different designs. You can emphasise a deep, rich colour in the wallpaper to create an intimate and moody ambiance.
Conversely, highlighting lighter and brighter colours can infuse a space with playfulness and joy. The possibilities are truly endless. Working with wallpaper also opens up exciting opportunities with fabrics. You can opt for pattern clashes that complement the wallpaper, or indulge in luxurious velvets that pick up on its colours. The interplay between wallcoverings and fabrics is where magic happens for me in design. I absolutely revel in the process of bringing together wallpaper and fabrics to craft spaces that are not only visually striking but also deeply expressive of personal style and ambiance.
Q: Your dress sense is as bold and joyful as the interiors you create, did you ever consider fashion design as a career move and does fashion inspire your interiors?
I've always had a passion for fashion and gravitated towards colourful, bold statement pieces. It wasn't until 2022 that I truly embraced and expressed my authentic self through my clothing choices. As my career prospects aligned with my fashion sense, I began to feel more like myself. Initially, I hesitated to wear what I truly loved, fearing judgement from others. I also struggled to piece together outfits that reflected my unique style; 2022 was the year I finally refined my fashion sense. As a creative individual, my expression doesn't stop at interiors—it permeates every aspect of my life. Naturally, my personal style serves as a physical manifestation of my design aesthetic.
I dress to impress, choosing pieces that bring me joy, and I believe in celebrating each day as a special occasion. I would absolutely love to launch my own fashion range filled with bright, bold pieces that empower women to embrace their fabulous selves. I envision creating versatile garments that effortlessly transition from casual daywear to statement pieces for special occasions. From casual yet striking everyday attire to elegant dresses and sharp suits, my collection would cater to diverse tastes and moments in life. Seeing women adorned in my designs, exuding confidence and joy, would be a dream come true. I would aim to craft pieces that not only make a visual impact but also evoke a sense of empowerment and uniqueness. Every woman deserves to feel special and celebrated in what she wears, and my goal is to contribute to that experience through fashion.
Q: What’s your favourite piece from the collaboration with La Redoute?
My favourite piece has to be the La Fleur Bloom velvet cushion. Its bold design flows seamlessly, creating a calming effect that enhances any space in my house. This was exactly my intention with this collection—to demonstrate that adding colour to your home can be subtle and harmonious rather than overpowering. I aimed to inspire people to experiment more with their interiors, encouraging them to embrace colour in a way that uplifts and transforms their living spaces. I hope to ignite a passion for vibrant, inviting home environments where each piece contributes to a cohesive yet expressive atmosphere.
Q: Tell us something about yourself that we would never guess.
I actually studied Drama at university with dreams of becoming a comedian, though that phase was short-lived! Interestingly, I had a stint as an extra on Hollyoaks and in a few movies—it was quite the experience! Never did I imagine my television debut would be on an interior design show, but as they say, anything can happen in life!
Q: Finally, what’s coming next?
It feels surreal to say, but for the first time in my life, I'm incredibly excited about the future of my career. I'm fortunate to collaborate with fabulous brands that resonate deeply with me, ones I've admired for years. My goal is to continue this momentum and expand to partner with other brands that inspire me just as much. Currently, I'm working on exciting projects in my home that I can't wait to unveil soon. I have aspirations to launch another homeware range and eventually introduce my own line of fabrics and wallpapers. Designing remains my passion, and I'm grateful to offer consultations and work with amazing clients who trust my vision. Looking ahead, my ambition is to venture into designing boutique hotels, restaurants, and bars within the next couple of years—that's the ultimate goal. Additionally, I have a keen interest in exploring more opportunities in TV work. I'm open to new challenges and endeavours, as long as they align with my creative vision and values.
Follow Roisin Quinn on Instagram!
