We catch up with Edinburgh-based interior designer Joelle Reid

Recently Tangram worked in collaboration with the wonderful Joelle Reid on an exciting interiors project. Joelle is an outstanding interior designer – no matter if she is working on a small bedroom in a family home or a boutique hotel, there is always an impressive level of attention to detail, which never fails to wow! Tangram have had the privilege of working with Joelle on many projects over the years, the latest being the newly opened Virgin Hotel in Edinburgh.

Today we catch up with Joelle to discuss the project and find out what inspires her creativity.

Joelle, we obviously know you well, but please can you tell us a little about yourself for those who don’t?

“I originally trained as a textile designer – I have a true passion for colour, texture and materials which were the foundation to my interior career. This has been fundamental in the specification of products and materials to create depth and interest into any interior scheme.

I have run my own business for 15 years now and have worked on many high end residential and commercial projects which have created a dynamic portfolio of a diverse range of projects.”

Your work is always an inspiration, but what or who inspires you?

“I believe a sense of place is the most important inspiration in my interiors – ensuring the interior is a sympathetic reflection of a property’s location, architecture and function are the building blocks to a successful design solution.”

Can you tell us about the Virgin Hotel project – what was your involvement? And what was the design brief?

“I was approached by Virgin a few years ago to join their creative interiors team. The aim was to provide a softer residential vibe to avoid the large chain/hotel group feeling corporate.

They were very keen to have a fun, welcoming vibe that did not take itself too seriously. It had to be approachable, inviting and relaxing.

They have been an incredible company to work with- the owners are very involved which has given the commercial project a more personal approach which I feel is reflective in the outcome of the interiors.

The brief of the spaces that I worked on was that they had to be friendly and welcoming but also as most of the spaces are multifunctional, they had to be adaptable, practical and movable! So that was quite a challenge.”

Why did you choose to collaborate with Tangram Furnishers?

“Tangram have an amazing range of suppliers and the ability to source fantastic options to present to the client. From organising samples to costing and delivery, the process is always slick and professional.

I have worked with Tangram for many years and always enjoy the quality of their products and the efficiency and professionalism of their amazing team.”

Finally, if you were to give one piece of design advice, what would it be?

“Do it right and don’t cut corners. Best to do it well once than badly 3 times!”

Do you have a project we can assist with?

We would like to thank Joelle for choosing Tangram and for taking the time to answer our questions!

If you would like to discuss a project, large or small, please get in touch. Our team of interior designers would love to be of assistance.

0131 556 6551 / [email protected]

Interior designer: Joelle Reid Interiors
Photography: Tom Sullam Photography