I am delighted to feature Sarah Fox, the creative force behind Fox Interior Design. Sarah graduated with a BA honours degree in Interior Design from Edinburgh College of Art and then headed to LA where she designed the homes of some of Hollywood’s biggest names including Brad Pitt. Sarah founded her company shortly after returning to London in 2000, creating exquisite, timeless interiors focusing on providing unwavering attention to detail to each client, she is also genuinely one of the most gracious and lovely people in the industry.
I loved chatting to Sarah about the story behind her brand, her favourite parts of running her own business, her top tips and daily routines.
Tell us your story and what inspired you to set up your company?
I started my career studying Interior Design at Art Edinburgh College of Art. My first job was at Colefax and Fowler which was a great learning opportunity in applied classic Interior Design. I moved to LA in my twenties where the California lifestyle and can-do attitude, shaped my professional persona and gave me the confidence to work on some amazing projects including Brad Pitt’s house and Winona Ryder’s homes. On returning to the UK, I was lucky to benefit from a wonderful training in the design of the modern English home at Todhunter Earle Interiors. Then in early 2000, I was encouraged by clients to set up my own business again, here in London.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Completing this year, we have designed a large luxury chalet in the French Alps. This really was a dream project, working with a lovely client, but it was also very challenging as we had to navigate remote working and project management due to the travel restrictions of the last two years. With applied resourcefulness, we did overcome those difficulties to create an incredible scheme that I am extremely proud of and fulfilled all our client’s ambitions for the property too.
What do you love most about running your own business?
The privilege of being welcomed into people’s homes, creating beautiful spaces and the trust my clients have in me. There's not one day that is ever the same, however it can be extremely demanding. There is a lot of troubleshooting, problem solving and dealing with a whole host of suppliers and craftspeople. But I love being part of the design community in London and all the advantages that has to offer.
Looking back what were the most important things you wish someone had told you before starting your business?
Trust your instinct, collaborate with your contemporaries and find a mentor to inspire and guide you.
What are the most rewarding aspects of what you do?
The relationships I build with my clients and collaborative approach I foster. I really enjoy sharing and exploring design ideas together, so the process is both enjoyable and rewarding for the client and the result reflects their character and personality.
Describe yourself in 3 words
Empathetic, calm and organised
Do you have any daily routines?
A cup of tea and I am trying to fit yoga into my mornings, even if it’s just a short session. Yoga helps to focus my mind and set me up for the day ahead.
What have you learnt over the last three years?
Adaptability, embracing remote working and finding ways to maintain a creative practice while staff and resources are decentralised. And, most importantly, balancing work with family time.
What is your favourite possession and why?
The paintings that fill our house, as everyone tells its own story. I especially value the family portrait we had painted by Chris Furr @christianfurr in 2009.
What is your greatest personal achievement?
My wonderful children x
How would you spend your perfect day?
That would nearly always involve plenty of sunshine, the sea, and a glass of good wine with close friends and family.
Image copyright Fox Interior Design
www.foxinteriordesign.com to keep in touch with all Sarah's latest news