Karen Walker, Good Homes Magazine: Talking Design
We’ve interviewed Karen Walker, editor of Good Homes Magazine, about her favourite design trends, her predictions for the coming year and much more…
How did you get started in interior design?
I’ve worked across homes interest magazines for over 25 years, starting as a 19-year-old editorial assistant many years ago! Now as editor of Good Homes I get to indulge my passion for all things interiors every day – who doesn’t enjoy looking around other people’s homes and being the first to see the new seasonal trends?
Good Homes also has the popular Ideal Home Show under its brand, which means I’m involved in bringing the pages of our magazine to life in the styling and concepting of the Good Homes roomsets at both the spring and Christmas events, it’s such a great feeling watching visitors positive reactions to our ideas.
What’s your favourite design trend right now?
Pared-back Scandi-inspired furniture is really big at the moment, simple lines and unfussy details – it not only looks great, but works with the rich colours and and bold patterns on rugs, flooring, cushions and wallpaper.
Describe your personal interior style?
In my head I’m a minimalist – no clutter and a two-shade colour palette throughout my house – but in reality I can’t resist a splash of colour, pattern, a black accent and lots of quirky artwork!
What’s your number one tip when it comes to starting a new decorating project?
Preparation is key, whether your project is big or small – I’ve made lots of mistakes in the past where I haven’t got the right equipment or not prepared the room!
What are your trend predictions for next year?
Autumn/Winter trends will see gorgeous purples, midnight blues, rich greens and oranges decorate furniture and accessories. Velvet is still going strong on sofas and chairs, brass replaces copper for accessories and there’s lots of fringing on throws and cushions.
Do you have a favourite design show?
I’m biased, but I love the Ideal Home Show as its at the forefront of new ideas and trends, Top Drawer is brilliant for finding new talent in the interiors world and I head to Grand Designs Live to follow my dream of (hopefully) building my own house one day.
What’s your favourite range from Walls and Floors, and why?
The love all the marble-effect tiles, as they’re so realistic looking and come in such a great range of colours and shapes to suit all decorating schemes – my favourite has to be the Voronoi hexagonal design – what a style statement!
The reclaimed wood-effect floor tiles are also a favourite as the mix of colours work in any room, and I’m still a lover of the classic Metro tile, particularly grey ones with white grout!
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We’re delighted to have interviewed Karen! For hundreds more inspiring ideas for the home and garden, visit GoodHomesMagazine.com
