BEAUTIFULLY FORMED SPACES

Danielle Simpson Interiors portrait — DANIELLE SIMPSON INTERIORS

Danielle Simpson Interiors is a small Edinburgh based interior design studio specialising in residential interior design, founded and run by me, Danielle Simpson. I am passionate about creating beautifully formed spaces that stand the test of time; interiors which are classic in influence but contemporary in execution and most importantly, always have the needs of the client at their heart.
Getting to know my clients and the space they call home is one of my favourite parts of the process. A successful design scheme is one which reflects the needs and vision of the client while respecting and making the most of the space. It’s a huge privilege to be invited into someone’s home to help them realise their vision and there is no better feeling than handing over a newly designed space at the end of a project to a delighted client.
My focus is always on providing a seamless and stress-free service. I work on projects of all sizes, whether it’s transforming one to two key rooms, or a whole house renovation. I work with trusted suppliers and trades to fulfil a scheme from start to finish and manage all elements to take the pressure away from the client.
I founded the business in early 2020 after 15 years in the advertising industry, making a career out of a lifelong love of interiors and desire to make my surroundings organised, balanced and beautiful. I draw upon a number of skills from my previous career to the benefit of projects including; project management, negotiating with suppliers for best value and managing budgets.
In addition to these skills, I have studied with the renowned KLC School of Design in London to develop technical skills in areas such as CAD drawing and lighting design.
- Danielle Simpson

PROCESS

Each client and home is different, and as such the process flexes to suit the needs of each individual project. However, there are a number of key stages which are common to all

The most important stage of the design process involves understanding exactly what is needed from the client. I look to understand not just tastes and preferences, but also lifestyle, how the client needs their home to function, and what their aspirations are for the space.
A briefing session at the home allows all the necessary questions to be explored, and all practical information collected such as room surveys, desired timescales and budgets. This is distilled into a brief for approval before any design work begins.
The design stage is split into two parts; concept design and design detail. The first stage - concept design - is developed in line with the agreed client brief, and sets the direction for the design of the space(s). The outcome is presented face to face and includes top-line floor plans with the recommended spatial layout, colour palettes and suggested styles, shapes and finishes for all required elements such as furniture, lighting, flooring and window treatments. I also source and curate styling options which are critical in finishing the space, including artwork and accessories.
If any joinery is required or recommended, top-line drawings will be shared. Finally mood-boards are presented with trays showing fabrics and hard finishes, and an initial estimate for the proposed work provided. Feedback from the concept design stage is fed into the second stage - the design detail.
All required items of FF&E (furniture, fixtures and equipment) are researched and sourced from trusted suppliers, and the scheme is brought to life via detailed elevation drawings, floor plans and mock-ups. Detailed drawings are also provided for any joinery.
A finalised itemised breakdown of costs for fulfilling the design and a timings plan detailing all required stages to installation is also provided at this stage.
Following approval of the design detail, I procure all items on behalf of clients, arrange delivery of items, inspect them upon delivery and manage any issues with suppliers.
In line with agreed timescales, I manage the installation of the design scheme. This includes the delivery and placement of all furniture and the installation of window treatments, lighting and joinery. I also work with all appointed trades, for example carpet fitters, decorators and electricians.
Finally, I ensure all items of styling and decoration are perfectly placed for those all important finishing touches.