As we move into the New Year, my focus remains on creating homes and spaces with depth, longevity and a strong sense of connection. My work continues to centre on thoughtful design decisions, considered use of colour and spaces that feel deeply personal to the people who live in them.

As the conversations around interiors evolve into 2026 the shift away from interiors that simply look good towards homes that feel grounded, personal and full of meaning continues. Homes with soul have always been at the heart of my work, so it was encouraging to see this conversation reflected in the Yorkshire Post property section this weekend, where the emphasis was firmly on how homes feel to live in, not simply how they look.

I believe there is a difference between a fad and the zeitgeist of a decade or a generation. In particular I pay attention to colours and materials that endure, those allow life to unfold around them. Brown is one such colour. Long used historically as a grounding neutral, it offers warmth, depth and an inherent sense of calm.

From soft clay and earthy taupes through to deeper chocolate and umber tones, brown works effortlessly across architectural styles and periods. It pairs naturally with layered textures, patinated finishes and honest materials, and responds beautifully to changing light throughout the day. Used thoughtfully, brown feels sophisticated and reassuring.

The shades shown here are among my preferred choices for use as neutral backdrops. In the final image, taken from a 2024 project, I used Farrow & Ball’s London Clay to update a bathroom. The colour was chosen to emphasise the period mouldings, frame the beautiful views and create a space that feels calm, cocooning and timeless. It also allowed the room to feel refreshed and considered, while retaining the existing tiling and sanitaryware from the cottage’s earlier life..

Looking ahead, I expect we’ll continue to see a move towards interiors that prioritise longevity, individuality and emotional connection. Colour will remain central to that process, and for me that is not a trend-led choice, but a considered foundation that takes architecture, light and surroundings into account and that truly reflects the people who live there.