Different by Design: Craftsmanship, Collaboration, and Brand Individuality

Different by Design: Craftsmanship, Collaboration, and Brand Individuality

On Monday 15th September, Taylor Howes took part in a special session at the Design Centre London, as part of the international design tour curated by Pramiti Madhavji, former editor-in-chief of Elle Decor India. The session, Different by Design, brought together interior designers, architects, and industry leaders to explore the art of creating interiors that stand out through craftsmanship, individuality, and collaboration.

The 45-minute talk featured Karen Howes, founder of Taylor Howes, Staffan Tollgard, founder of Tollgard, and Andrew Hills of Porta Romana, moderated by Charlotte Abrahams. It offered a unique insight into what truly differentiates exceptional interior projects.

• What Sets an Interior Project Apart?

Creating interiors that are timeless, meaningful, and unique requires more than following trends. As Karen Howes explains, “Great design is not only visually compelling but must reflect the client’s lifestyle, the context of the space, and stand the test of time.”

Every project begins with a story. This could be the story of the client, their passions, lifestyle, and heritage, or the story of the building itself. Understanding these narratives ensures that every design decision is intentional, creating spaces that are both beautiful and deeply personal.

Location and architecture also play a defining role. Exceptional interiors exist in conversation with their surroundings, enhancing the character of heritage buildings or culturally rich sites while respecting their original context.

• Residential vs Commercial Design

Designing for private residences requires a deeply personal approach. “Homes must feel lived-in, intuitive, and bespoke,”Karen explains. The goal is not just to create a beautiful space, but a home that resonates with the client’s lifestyle and family needs.

Commercial and hospitality projects, by contrast, involve multiple stakeholders, developers, operators, or marketing teams, and are ultimately designed for people the designers may never meet. Strategic planning, versatility, and functionality are key to ensuring that these spaces work seamlessly for a wide audience while maintaining a distinctive, elevated aesthetic.

• The Role of Craftsmanship in Design

Handcrafted furniture, furnishings, and objects bring soul, storytelling, and individuality to interiors. Whether it’s a striking console, a bespoke light fixture, or carefully layered ceramics and textiles, artisan-made pieces anchor a space and reflect the personality of those who inhabit it.

“Craftsmanship elevates design,” says Karen. “It adds warmth, texture, and a sense of place, ensuring interiors are not only functional but meaningful.” Taylor Howes works closely with artisans to commission bespoke pieces that resonate with the client’s values and heritage, balancing bold statements with subtler elements to create cohesive, harmonious spaces.

In today’s fast-paced world, where mass production dominates, the firm sees itself as a guardian of craftsmanship. By championing artisanal work, they help preserve traditional skills while integrating them into contemporary design.

• Building Relationships with Artisans

Close collaboration with talented makers is at the heart of Taylor Howes’ approach. Karen emphasizes that “the relationship with an artisan is just as important as the piece itself.” Trust, respect, and shared creative vision are essential for co-developing pieces that feel truly bespoke.

While the studio often works with British artisans, sourcing internationally can also be key, particularly for projects abroad. Using local makers and materials ensures authenticity and supports regional craft traditions. Face-to-face interactions, studio visits, and hands-on engagement remain invaluable in an era increasingly influenced by digital tools and AI, reinforcing the ethical and emotional value of the work.

• The Power of Brand Individuality

Taylor Howes is recognised not for a formula, but for an ethos: a commitment to passion, honesty, and kindness. This guiding philosophy ensures that every project is unique while maintaining a consistent standard of quality. The client’s voice is always central, allowing the studio to deliver diversity in design within a coherent framework of integrity and excellence.

“Our identity is not in aesthetic uniformity but in our values,” Karen explains. “It’s what allows us to create truly distinctive interiors that reflect both our ethos and the individuality of each client.”

Different by Design demonstrated how thoughtful collaboration, meticulous craftsmanship, and a clear design ethos combine to create interiors that are timeless, personal, and exceptional. For Taylor Howes, design is never just about decoration, it’s about creating meaningful, considered spaces that truly make a difference.