Making spaces beautiful and functional is this interior architect's design philosophy

A chic sitting room in a client’s home. — Photos: One Space

Recalling her earliest memory of her interest in design, Katherine Stuart, interior architect and design director of One Space, says that it was from when she was four years old.

Her mother had a difficult time getting her ready for school, as Stuart was very particular about how her uniform looked and whether the items in her schoolbag complemented her overall look.

“I loved making sure the items around me were matching. If any of my stationery didn’t match my school uniform, I would kick up a fuss before going to school,” Stuart recollects.

In secondary school, Stuart enjoyed going to her uncle’s carpentry shop during the holidays and spending time observing everyone who worked there.

Amazed by how the designers were able to transform 3D visuals into reality, she told herself she would someday learn how to create designs that make the best possible use of any available space.

Industrial-style interiors in a client's office.

That was when she knew she wanted to become an interior architect, and has since made it her aim to design areas that improve the quality of life of its occupants by creating beautiful and functional spaces.

What would you say is your signature design style?

To me, a customer’s ideas and opinions always come first, as they will be the ones utilising the space.

I would always listen and ask them questions to find out what they really like and what their daily lifestyle is before coming up with a proposal.

Therefore, I don’t think I have a signature design style.

What is it about your style that appeals to clients?

I always have clients telling me, “I love it” and “It’s comfortable being here”. I believe comfort is key with my clients.

As each client has different ideas of what beauty is, I’m happy to explore all the different interior design styles while finding the style that suits them the most.

Interior architect and design director of One Space Katherine Stuart's earliest memory of her interest in design is from when she was four years old.

Where do you get design inspiration from, and how do you balance your design vision with the client’s requests?

Most of my inspiration comes from HGTV Magazine (on interior design) and my own experiences.

Before the pandemic, I would travel to different countries and explore the space planning, colour scheme and concept of an area.

I always ask “why do they plan it in this way? Would it be better if we moved things around in another way?”

I believe curiosity plays an important role throughout my interior design journey.

On how I balance my design vision with the client’s requests, before we had software like 3D max and sketch up, I would hand-sketch the space while presenting to help them understand the layout.

Now it’s so much easier to show them with current technology.

For me, I always like to show them two ideas and allow them to compare both, equipping them with facts, materials suggestions and ideas on practicality to help them make their decision.

What is your favourite way to maximise spaces like nooks, under the stairs and hallways?

I would play around with colours and lighting for hallways. If the hallway is long, I will use a contrasting colour on the wall with some wall art to make the space more interesting to walk into.

If the hallway is short, I will use the same shade but with a different tone on the ceiling or wall to make it feel like the hallway is wider.

Do you have a favourite type of space to style, and why?

My favourite would be the living lounge. Because that is the best place for people to hang out and mingle, and contributing towards filling that space with laughter and joy is something that brings me satisfaction.

Second would be the kitchen because I love baking and sipping coffee. During my free time I usually have my besties over for a baking and tea session. This is why I believe having your kitchen space styled properly is a great idea.

How has your business fared during the pandemic, what have you learned from it? What do you feel you have accomplished during this period?

To me it’s a win-win situation. As during the pandemic, I have more time to provide training to my team. We have also had the chance to get to know each other better and to learn from one another, which makes us stronger as a team.

My greatest accomplishment during this pandemic would be learning about painting. I have had the time to explore different types of material to create abstract art pieces. Also, gaining knowledge on colour combinations.

What was your inspiration for the design of your own home?

My favourite style would be minimalist with a hint of classic elements. I like seeing things around me neat. While minimalism is the choice for my home, it could end up being a little too simple, and that’s why classic elements help to elevate a space’s ambience.

Neo classic is also a favourite of mine, with earthy tones as the colour scheme. As these are trendy colour tones on their own, I can add in any accent tone in the future without having to change any major items.

What are some personal elements from your childhood that you have incorporated into the design of your home?

When I was younger, I used to live in a house that doesn’t feel like a home in a sense that it was not conducive for a child to grow up in.

I grew up always thinking about how I could make my surroundings a home to everyone whom I love. Which is why, whenever I design a space, I always try to see things from other people’s perspectives and try to imagine how a certain space will make them feel, as I understand that a “conducive environment” is very important for the inhabitant, to liven up the mood of the space and for their peace of mind.