God Is in the Details

There’s a timeless saying in design: God is in the details. God is in the details, especially in interior design. This phrase resonates deeply in interior design, because it reminds us that beauty and meaning often lie in the smallest, most thoughtful touches. Large design choices, like the sofa you select, the flooring you lay, or the color palette you commit to, certainly set the foundation. But it’s the finer details layered on top that elevate a space from simply styled to truly remarkable.

God Is in the Details.

Cushions as Mood-Makers

Take cushions as an example. At first, they might seem like a finishing touch, but in reality they’re one of the most expressive elements in a living space. The fabric, texture, and shape of a cushion can instantly shift the mood. A velvet cushion in deep emerald or sapphire introduces a sense of luxury, while linen cushions in earthy tones bring calm and softness. Mix a bold print with a quiet neutral, and suddenly the room feels dynamic and alive. Cushions not only invite comfort but also create subtle rhythm and harmony across a room.

Cushions are powerful tools of design. A detail shoot from st John's Wood Penthouse project.

A detail shoot from Muswell Hill House project.

Wallpaper That Tells a Story

Wallpaper is another detail with transformative power. It’s not just about covering walls; it’s about layering in character and storytelling. A botanical print can invite nature inside, while geometric patterns energize a study or creative space. Even applied sparingly, lining the inside of a wardrobe, the back of shelves, or a hallway nook, wallpaper can create delightful surprises. These small choices tell your guests, and yourself, that every corner of your home has been thoughtfully considered.

Wallpaper That Tells a Story

Wallpaper That Tells a Story. A detail shoot from st John's Wood Penthouse project.

Handles, Corners, and Craftsmanship

The hardware of furniture and joinery is another area where details shine. Handles, hinges, and corner finishes are often overlooked, yet they play a vital role in both aesthetics and usability. Imagine a wardrobe fitted with brushed brass handles, suddenly, it feels modern and elegant. Swap those for ceramic knobs, and the same piece leans toward playful and artisanal. The treatment of furniture corners, whether rounded for softness or accented with protective metal for durability, speaks to the level of craftsmanship in a space. These little gestures carry weight, making furniture not just functional but also a statement of taste.

Handles, Corners, and Craftsmanship. A detail shoot from st John's Wood Penthouse project.

Handles, Corners, and Craftsmanship. A detail shoot from North Finchley house project.

Lighting That Shapes Atmosphere

Lighting, too, is one of the most important details in any home. A table lamp or a small wall-mounted night light can do far more than provide illumination, they shape atmosphere, mood, and comfort. A lamp on a side table adds intimacy to a living room, casting a warm glow that makes evenings feel cozy and inviting. In a bedroom, a pair of small wall lights can create symmetry while offering practical reading light. The choice of lampshade, material, and even the quality of the bulb matters: a linen shade diffuses light softly, while glass or metal shades create sharper, more dramatic effects. These lights are functional, yes, but they are also sculptural details that anchor the personality of a room.

Lighting That Shapes Atmosphere. A detail shoot from st John's Wood Penthouse project.

Lighting That Shapes Atmosphere. A detail shoot from The Blush and Brass house project.

Accessories That Complete the Picture

Accessories, the final layer of design, hold the power to tie everything together. A woven basket might bring warmth and texture while keeping clutter at bay. A well-placed piece of art that makes a room sing. Even the material of a throw blanket, wool, cotton, cashmere, adds subtle texture and personality. All of these details tells a story about the people who live in the space. These details are often the most personal, carrying memory and meaning. Unlike larger furniture pieces, accessories can be switched, layered, and played with seasonally, keeping a space feeling fresh and alive.

Accessories That Complete the Picture. A detail shoot from st John's Wood Penthouse project.

Accessories That Complete the Picture. A detail shoot from North Finchley house project.

When we give attention to these details, the spaces we inhabit feel complete, balanced, and personal. Interior design isn’t about filling a room with objects; it’s about creating an atmosphere, an experience, and ultimately, a home. The magic lies in the details, the quiet, thoughtful decisions that breathe life into every corner.