TBCo Style Stories: Emily Smoor on Eclectic Interiors and Timeless Colour
Where do you find most of your styling inspiration for interiors?
I would love to give you a really artsy answer here but I have to admit I find most of my references doom scrolling on Instagram and Pinterest.
Having said that, the moments that birth lightning bolt ideas are usually when I step away from interiors. A colour combo I see someone wearing, weird and wonderful lichen and moss while out on a walk, and of course some of the most valuable inspiration comes from art. Understanding the colour wheel and what colours make another colour zing is a really valuable tool when you are designing interiors.
Cushion Cover, Recycled Wool Blanket.
Who is one of your biggest inspirations in interior design or styling?
I honestly can’t narrow it down to one. We have been working on a lot of more traditional projects of late so I am itching to work on something really contemporary. I have been fawning over Tiffany Howell of Night Palm, Giancarlo Valle, Jake Arnold and Quintana Partners. All of their work is a cut above.
What is your top styling tip for the season ahead?
Always buy the best quality you can afford and buy what you love, not what trends tell you to love.
What is your favourite TBCo product to style, and how do you like to incorporate it into a space?
We love your blankets and many a TBCo blanket has hung off the back of a Studio Fantoush sofa or chair. My current favourites are the Celestial Blue and Teal Gingham, oh and the Stewart Tartan Cashmere blanket, chef's kiss.
What new interior trends or ideas do you see emerging this season?
I have to admit I don’t really pay much attention to trends. One trend I can get on board with though is acceptance, being open minded to all sorts of styles and mashing them together in a way you like. Our interior studio calling card is eclectic interiors and we are always mixing together different styles to create something unique in each space. The green light has been given to bang our own drums, so get banging.
Pyjamas, Duvet Cover, Pillowcases.
What is a timeless design or styling concept that always works?
Classic shapes and quality materials will never age. If you are spending money on a bigger item in your home such as a sofa or bed, go for a classic shape that can be styled to work in any interiors, otherwise you risk it looking outdated in a few years. Invest in classic, style with trends.
Shop timeless textures that work with every aesthetic.
What city around the world do you think embodies great interior style?
Now that is a hard one. There are so many incredibly stylish cities but I would say the city I have been to recently that really got me excited and filled up my camera reel was Marrakech. With its North African location and Islamic architecture, it is so utterly different from the European vernacular. The vibrant colours of the textiles and tiles alongside the incredible interior architecture and craftsmanship is a feast for the senses.
What accessory or piece makes the biggest impact when styling a room?
Art. Art maketh or breaketh the room.
How would you describe your interior styling aesthetic in three words?
Eclectic, colourful, tactile.
What is your most-loved piece in your home, and what makes it special to you?
A portrait I painted of my dad before he died. It captures him the way I wanted to remember him, mischievous. He sits on the piano in our kitchen so he’s there for family dinners.
