British Institute of Interior Design

Profile

Beverley Barnett / Beverley Barnett

Beverley Barnett started her career in Interior Design with Colefax & Fowler in Brook Street, London. She has been running her own business for over 20 years and is a member of the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID). Most of the work that Beverley has undertaken has been in private homes, throughout the UK and worldwide. The styles have been as diverse, ranging from contemporary apartments in the city to traditional homes. Many clients have commissioned Beverley to handle their second homes; a recent project involved a major project in Europe, whilst simultaneously working on the client’s London home. She has also undertaken major refurbishment projects for offices, hotels and schools.

Being a member of the BIID means that Beverley is qualified by training and experience to plan and supervise the design and execution of interiors and furnishings- and to organise the various arts and crafts essential to their completion. In order to join the BIID, an applicant must fulfil stringent entry requirements. This means not only demonstrating artistic ability, but also proving an established business of several years’ standing and operating in a professional manner.

Pivotal to Beverley’s success is the relationship she forms with her clients. She is very aware that the relationship between an interior designer and her client often becomes one of the most personal outside the immediate family. Whether you choose a designer by recommendation, local research or a follow up having seen the result of their work, the rapport with your designer establishes itself very quickly. This client/designer empathy is intrinsic to the success of any project.

Beverley never imposes her ideas upon her clients. Instead she will devote the time carefully listening to their likes and dislikes and then works with them to create an environment that is truly ‘theirs’ Her ability to listen ensures that she interprets clients’ requirements effectively and efficiently.

Just by talking to Beverley you can see how much she loves her profession. She admits that she can indulge her passion for traditional design and ultra modern minimalism, without losing sight of the fact that her clients’ homes are an extension of their personalities. She recognizes that she is called upon to interpret their wishes and eliminate stress and trauma that can occur when clients attempt to handle projects on their own. As she says: “After all, would you underpin your own foundations? Of course not! Why not employ a professional to create the home or commercial property you really want? Far from indicating a lack of taste or initiative, using an interior designer can help you realise your own ideas far more effectively and quickly than going it alone. A designer is also significantly less expensive than you might imagine, saving you from making those costly mistakes.”

Beverley has a reliable team working with her, covering all the necessary trades and professions, including architects, builders, decorators, plumbers, electricians, curtain makers and upholsterers; as well as specialised craft personnel, gilders and French polishers. She also has access to the very latest in fixtures, fittings and fabrics, often unavailable through retail outlets.

Projects:

Beverley has worked on many prestigious private homes both in London and the suburbs. These include many building and refurbishment projects in Hampstead, Totteridge, St. Johns Wood, Maida Vale, Hampstead Garden Suburb, Richmond, Radlett and Hadley Wood. Commercial projects have been mainly focused within the central London area. Beverley has also handled various overseas projects for private clients.