Describe yourself in a 5 words. Love coupled with a passion for design and creativity
What inspires you? Travel, exhibitions, theatre, music, cinema
I’m good at… Visualization
I’m bad at… Divulging what I might be bad at!
What are the highlights of your career thus far? The Amporn Palace Thailand, The Kings Observatory – Old Deer Park Richmond.
What are your goals for the next 5 years? To continue to build on and expand my new academy along with my design focused trips and visits.
How did the name ‘Susan Llewellyn Associates’ come about? The company evolved naturally and is based on my knowledge and history so it made sense that the company name was a personal reference.
How did you develop the concept for Susan Llewellyn Associates? My Mantra is ‘Learning by Doing’ – this is exactly the concept that the company has grown from. I learn (and therefore teach) the skills I have developed through the people and clients I collaborate with and the environments I create.
What has been the most exciting collaboration you’ve worked on so far? The Estee Lauder Empire
How long have you been working in design and what is your creative background and training? Over 30 years with a background in theatre.
Can you explain how Susan Llewellyn Associates was started and what your role as Principal entails? The company was started upon request; it was a natural progression after that. My role is to oversee everything concerning the business whilst delegating where appropriate to the right person for the task.
Are there any areas that are particularly difficult or challenging? When your job is finished, leaving the client can be difficult especially when you design something personal like a home as you are working closely with the client and form a bond. I have made many good friends through my work.
What do you believe sets you and your company apart from your competitors design firms? History and knowledge of the industry – longevity.
Beyond the clients brief, what are the main inspirations and intentions behind your design style? The space and how to use it best for the clients needs.
What are you working on at the moment? A house in Knightsbridge
Do you have any words of wisdom that you would like to pass on? Do not put anything off, deal with good and bad at once.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given? Tell the truth, then you do not need to remember what you said.
What do you feel are the most important trends / changes happening in the industry that you feel designers should be aware of? Colour and more colour.
What is your most treasured procession? My dog.
What is your must-have item for next season? Colour is so important I would suggest adding this by using colourful fabric in whatever form, curtaining, cushions or upholstery.
Who’s your favourite Style Icon? Eileen Grey is my favourite designer but for personal style Coco Chanel.
Most inspirational person you have met? My Father
Your favourite location? London, Middle and Far East
In a nutshell, your philosophy is… Never stop researching. Listen to younger people as they are my inspiration for future growth.
