In Profile:
Tobias Oliver Interiors

Where does your design inspiration come from?
My design style is heavily influenced by the rich aesthetics of both American and Parisian interior designers, blending the innovative, eclectic vibe often seen in American design with the timeless elegance and sophistication characteristic of Parisian interiors. This fusion creates a unique approach that values creativity and craftsmanship while embracing a global perspective.

I draw inspiration from the bold colours and diverse textures prevalent in American design, where there’s a focus on comfort and individuality. Simultaneously, I admire the Parisian flair for refined details, balancing ornate elements with understated elegance. This melding allows me to create spaces that feel both inviting and luxurious.

Additionally, I integrate elements from fashion, art, and jewellery into my interior design. The interplay of patterns and styles in fashion inspires my fabric choices and colour palettes, while contemporary art pieces often serve as focal points within a room, adding a layer of visual intrigue. The delicate intricacies found in jewellery influence my selection of trims and decorative accents, encouraging a layered, textural approach that enhances the overall design.

By intertwining these influences, I aim to craft interiors that exude both sophistication and warmth, creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also resonate with the stories and personalities of those who inhabit them.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I feel that for a long time interiors have been influenced by fashion however we have begun to see how these roles are being reversed this year. A prime example of this is Harris Reed and his GILDED collection as London Fashion Week 2025 where he drew inspiration from Porta Romana’s Urchin chandelier.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future. :
1. Adaptability – this means less waste when a client’s tastes or lifestyle change.
2. Diversity – celebrating a mixture of influences and styles.
3. Well-being – creating environments that promote physical and mental well-being.
4. Storytelling – greater emphasis on authenticity focusing on unique narratives that reflect the history and character of a space.
5. Experimental – Design exploration leading to more engaging and stimulating environments.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?
One of the most challenging projects I worked on involved a client who was quite misleading and unhelpful throughout the design process. From the outset, it became clear that communication would be a significant hurdle. The client had a vision in mind that they were hesitant to articulate clearly, which led to misunderstandings about their preferences and expectations.

As we began the design phase, discrepancies emerged in their feedback, often leading us to pursue directions that didn’t align with their true desires. This lack of transparency made it difficult to establish a cohesive design strategy. I found myself constantly backtracking to reassess decisions and revise plans, which was both time-consuming and frustrating.

Additionally, the client was not forthcoming with details about their budget or any constraints, complicating our ability to present suitable options. This created an environment of uncertainty where we had to navigate decisions without a clear understanding of boundaries. I had to spend considerable time developing multiple design concepts, many of which were ultimately dismissed, leaving my team feeling demoralised and questioning our direction.

To tackle these challenges, I focused on fostering open lines of communication, scheduling regular check-ins to encourage the client to express their thoughts more freely. I also learned to ask more targeted questions to draw out their preferences, which gradually helped clarify their vision. This experience taught me the importance of patience and adaptability in the design process.

While the project was fraught with challenges, it ultimately became a valuable learning experience and shaped the way we now charge our clients for our time.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing? E.g. Lighting companies, furniture companies:
When designing, there are several key products and services that I consider indispensable, each playing a vital role in crafting cohesive and stunning interiors.

Fabrics from Pierre Frey and Nobilis: Both Pierre Frey and Nobilis offer a mesmerising selection of fabrics that are perfect for adding depth and character to any space. Pierre Frey’s rich patterns and exquisite textures bring a sense of elegance and personality, while Nobilis excels in providing innovative and contemporary fabric choices that emphasise luxury and sophistication. Having access to their collections allows me to create layered, visually appealing environments that resonate with my clients’ tastes.

Lighting from Porta Romana: Lighting is crucial in establishing the mood and ambiance of a space, and Porta Romana stands out for its exceptional craftsmanship and unique designs. Their lighting fixtures are not only functional but also serve as beautiful artistic statements that enhance the overall aesthetic of a room. The ability to incorporate their bespoke lighting into my designs adds a dramatic flair that elevates the entire atmosphere.

Bespoke furniture from Bray Upholstery: The quality and customisation offered by Bray Upholstery for bespoke furniture is essential in creating unique, tailored pieces that fit perfectly within a design scheme. Their attention to detail and commitment to craftsmanship ensures that each item not only meets the aesthetic requirements but also provides comfort and durability. Bespoke furniture is often a cornerstone of my projects, allowing for a seamless blend of style and functionality.

Soft furnishings from Clemency Rittner: The finishing touches that soft furnishings provide are critical in bringing a space to life, and Clemency Rittner excels in this area. They have a deep understanding of materials and their applications which helps us create beautiful cushions, throws, and window treatments adding layers and warmth to interiors. With their focus on unique designs, I can complete a room with exquisite details that reflect the client’s personality and vision.

Together, these companies contribute significantly to my design process, allowing me to create harmonious, luxurious interiors that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Their products and services are truly indispensable, shaping the way I approach each project and enhancing the overall experience for my clients.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Tobias Oliver Interiors will turn 10 years old at the end of this year, therefore one big project we are working on internally is our new website, new branding… maybe even a new name! Watch this space…

Your most treasured possession?
I wear a piece of Moldavite that is elegantly set in gold as a pendant around my neck, and this piece holds significant sentimental value for me. It was a cherished gift from my mother over 15 years ago, a reminder of our bond and her thoughtful way of nurturing my interests in unique and meaningful stones.

Moldavite is more than just a beautiful gemstone; it’s a rare tectite formed from a meteorite impact, and it’s often associated with transformative energy and spiritual growth. I’ve always been drawn to its deep green hue and the fascinating history behind it – believed to have been formed about 15 million years ago, it carries with it a sense of connection to the universe that resonates deeply with me. I love that it has literally travelled billions of miles around space!

Wearing this piece not only adds a touch of elegance to my daily attire but also serves as a source of inspiration and energy throughout my day. The unique qualities attributed to Moldavite, such as its ability to heighten intuition and foster personal transformation, have become cornerstones of my creative and professional journey.