Sophie Kirk, has over 30 years’ experience in interior design, working for some of the largest design firms in the country from Nina Campbell to Colefax & Fowler. Based in North Yorkshire, Sophie established her own interiors business, Sophie Kirk Interiors 20 years ago.
Following the success of her business, it was a dream come true when an Isle of Wight cottage, Sophie had admired as a child came on the market. Sophie and her husband, Charlie couldn’t pass on the opportunity to make it their own. This beautiful listed, seaside cottage dating to 1567 was recently featured on the cover of English Home. We were thrilled to take a seat on the sofa with Sophie Kirk and pick up some tips and advice.
You are the proud owner of a listed coastal property, listed buildings are full of character and challenges of their own, what would your advice be to anyone renovating a listed property?
Be true to its history. We have made the most of all original features, particularly some of the old panelling, which we have repeated all around the cottage. Try and find out about the history of the property. We haven’t tried to overly modernise but have kept it light, painting all the woodwork so there isn’t any dreary dark wood.
How would you describe your interiors style?
Eclectic. I love mixing old with the new, but on the whole I try and create a timeless space.
Mixing prints with plains and textures brings depth and interest to a room, how do you ensure the space ties together as a whole?
I like to have a fairly neutral background and then build on that. So pops of colour in decorative accessories such as lampshades, cushions and books to bring balance and interest into a room
What is your favourite part about having a home on the Isle of Wight?
Walking our 4 dogs on the beach, which is a stone’s through from the house. Watching the glorious sunsets from my bedroom window, with sounds of the sea in the background.
The Alwinton sofa from Sofas & Stuff takes pride and place in your coastal living room, with 4 lovely doggies, we are curious, do you allow dogs on the sofa?
Well, I allow dogs on the sofa, but as soon as my husband comes home all four dogs jump down and into their bed. I jump up and look busy!!
What are your tips for choosing the right sofa for cottage space?
For a cottage space I would choose a low backed sofa, in a neutral colour, to enhance the feeling of space. I would then cosy it up with a woollen blanket to create texture and then some gorgeous colourful cushions.
It’s important for the items in your home mean something to you, what are your tips for creating a curated interior?
I always think photographs are important, and the frames to co-ordinate with the rest of the room. The odd tapestry cushion, with a personal link. I always like to have books of personal interest, not just books for books sake.
What’s next for Sophie Kirk Interiors?
I have got a lovely job on the Isle of Wight coming up and I hope to do some styling in the future.
