Meet the interior designer – Vickie Nickolls of Interior Therapy

Vickie Nickolls has been creating beautiful residential properties with her Buckinghamshire-based agency Interior Therapy since 2014, picking up several Houzz design awards on the way. Her modern yet cosy homes often feature a Pooky light or two, so we thought we’d catch up with Vickie and find out more about her work and approach to interior styling. Here’s our Q&A...

How did you get started in interior design?

I have always had a strong passion for interiors and fashion. I worked in Trend, which involved working with colour and materials on a daily basis. I left my job to have my daughter and set up my own business in 2014 and have worked in interior design ever since, mainly on residential properties and interior styling for magazines.

How would you describe your interior design style?

I would say my own style is modern... I love to mix period features with modern pieces, whether that's art or furniture. Large statement artwork, colour pops and prints feature in a lot of my work. The clients’ tastes and character of their properties are also a huge consideration but mainly my style is all about creating modern yet cosy rooms for my clients and their families.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I find inspiration in so many different areas...Travel, magazines, fashion, online, walking down the street!.. I love looking at inspiration images on Pinterest and Instagram too, sometimes the smallest thing can spark off ideas in your head and get translated back into a project you might be working on...

What do you most enjoy about your work?

I love it when the room comes together and all of the planning and mood boards become a reality. For me styling plays a huge part in my job, how the room is finished –- all the finishing touches really are key. I like to go back and get the room exactly how I envisioned it from the start.. Also when your clients tell you how happy they are in their new rooms, or how it has changed the way they live, perhaps by using a room that they didn't before.

How does lighting play a part in your interiors?

It plays a huge part, I must admit I prefer mood lighting, so I tend to use floor lamps, wall and table lamps that can be used to create warm cosy rooms… BUT I can't resist a good feature pendant ceiling light. Central ceiling lights can be a real feature of the room, so it's important to make an impression with it!

Which recent projects are you particularly proud of?

I would have to say my own house! We moved in a year ago and have been renovating room by room. It has such character but needed totally bringing back to life. We have managed to keep many of the original features, but we’ve given it the modern twist that we like.

Do you have a particular favourite corner or room (in your home or anywhere) that you feel is 'all your own'? Or do you have any tips for creating a 'cosy' space?

For me that's probably my office/studio space. It includes lots of things that are personal to me and the only room I get to use all by myself. Other than that our playroom/family room is fun and reflects the personality of the whole family! Tips for creating a cosy space? Make sure it includes a comfy chair, mood lighting and items that are personal to you, whether that photos or artwork that you love.

Finally, do you have a favourite Pooky light?

My fave Pooky light is the Tiree wall light. I love how it can be easily plugged in, so perfect for adding that extra lighting and feature on a wall.

See more of Vickie's designs at the Interior Therapy website, and follow her on Instagram here.