Lessons we’ve learnt over our thirty years in the industry

After three decades in interior design, we’ve encountered just about every kind of challenge - and we still love every minute of it. Today we share the five key lessons that continue to guide and shape us.

1. Despite meticulous planning, the unexpected can still happen

Even with the best planning, surprises can occasionally still happen - from weather delays to unexpected production hiccups or customs holdups. But, what matters most is not avoiding these challenges (as often they are unavoidable) but how you respond. Keeping communication open and honest, finding creative solutions, and always having a plan B (and sometimes C) can make all the difference. Often, these moments become the stories we remember most fondly as they show the strength of teamwork and flexibility.

2. Change is inevitable 

New trends, materials and ideas are what keep our work fresh and exciting. Staying curious and adaptable has always been fundamental - from travelling to international furniture fairs, discovering new suppliers, evolving our showroom, or simply rethinking the way we work. It’s about striking a balance of staying true to our roots but also embracing change so we don’t get left behind. And along the way, we’ve learned how valuable it is to ask for honest feedback from our clients and supporters, even when it is occasionally not what we hoped to hear, as this helps us grow and keep improving.

3. Small but mighty

Being a smaller, close-knit team means each project gets a truly personal touch. We collaborate closely, share ideas freely, and build strong relationships with both clients and suppliers. We always say “Tangram is the team” and this really rings true - collaboration isn’t just part of what we do, it’s at the heart of it. 

4. Stay true to your values

We’re sometimes asked why our collections aren’t sold online. The answer is simple - we believe in personal service and expert guidance, not just transactions. For us, the real value lies in understanding each client’s needs and helping them make choices that genuinely fit their space and brief. 

5. Never undervalue networking

The old saying of “it’s not what you know, but who you know” shouldn’t be forgotten. Taking time to build genuine relationships with clients, suppliers, fellow designers, and even competitors can often lead to unexpected opportunities. Networking should also go beyond an exchange of business cards or Linkedin requests, it’s about building connections that are mutually beneficial. We never know where the next big project will come from - but what we do know is that it rarely happens by chance.

After 30 years we’re still faced with new challenges but it’s the willingness to learn which is perhaps the biggest lesson of all - and is what makes our work so rewarding.  

What lessons have you learnt over the years? Do get in touch and let us know!

0131 556 6551 / [email protected]