In Profile:
Susan Chesney Interiors

How would you describe your personal design style?:
Balanced. Layered. Clean. Elevated. Warm. Airy.
Thoughtfully refined spaces with depth, softness, and ease.

Where does your design inspiration come from?:
Inspired by our clients, informed by global influences, and guided by human connection, art, architecture, and light.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?:
In a general sense, design is moving towards greater human connection, sustainability through enduring decisions, and functional simplicity. There is a growing emphasis on creating work that feels personal and meaningful, while also being thoughtful in its longevity, use, and impact. Rather than chasing excess, design is increasingly about clarity, purpose, and creating things that genuinely enhance everyday life.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future.:
Human connection, longevity, sustainability, functional simplicity, and authenticity are five key themes for the future of design. Together, they point towards a more thoughtful approach, one that values how people live, prioritises enduring choices, reduces excess, and creates spaces with genuine meaning and character.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be?:
If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be to remember that form follows function. The best interiors begin with a clear understanding of how a space needs to work. From there, colour can be used in thoughtful doses to shape mood and speak to the soul, while strong space planning, composition and materiality provide the foundation for a design that feels both beautiful and enduring.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?:
The International Design & Architecture Awards are well regarded and therefore carries real value in terms of industry visibility and credibility. They are a respected international platform, so being shortlisted is really meaningful. It is an important recognition and a strong marketing asset.

What projects are you currently working on?:
Private residences in Kensington, Chelsea, Clapham and Oxford.

Your most treasured possession?:
My treasured possession is my home and the space it creates for my family and me. It is ever-evolving with us, and it forms the backdrop to our life together. It is a place of comfort and connection amidst the dizzying pace of London life.

Your favourite holiday destination?:
I am often drawn to the Mediterranean for the remarkable sea, climate and the fresh simplicity of food. Every so often I need to go much further afield, somewhere that feels completely removed from the British, American, or European world I know. That kind of travel acts as a real reset button for me, both culturally, soulfully, and creatively.

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?:
Hotel: Luxury boutique hotels are the best home away from home.
Bar: At the moment, it’s Demob bar at the Sloane Club London

Your favourite book, film & song?:
Film: The Talented Mr. Ripley was one that has stayed in my mind, but it’s difficult for me to watch a film more than once.

Your favourite food and drink?:
Food: I love it all, but do have a soft spot for great Vietnamese food.
Drink: Sparkling water with a dash of fresh juice…and a cucumber, grapefruit concoction.

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?:
My favourite way to spend an afternoon is catching up with family and friends over some light activity (tennis, hiking, etc) and sharing a beautiful meal. With the schedules we all keep, that kind of time together has become a real treat.

I also value making time for fitness and wellness, as it gives me a chance to reconnect with myself.

With life in the UK, I have come to appreciate sunny days far more than I ever did when I lived in Texas, California, and Tokyo, where sunshine felt easier to take for granted. So an afternoon spent with family, good friends, good food, and sunshine is perfection.

If you weren’t in this sector, what would your alternative profession be?:
I once thought seriously about a second career in medicine, because doing meaningful work has always mattered to me. But I now realise that without the ability to express my creativity, there would have been a void. Interior design allows me to support wellbeing in a different way, and the blend of creativity, analytical thinking, and connection with people makes it feel like the right calling for me.