About Me

My interior design journey began in 2012 when I bought my first flat in South London which needed a serious revamp. Together with my husband, we have subsequently fully renovated two further homes and now live in a beautiful Edwardian house in SW London. It's a labour of love and there are always new creative projects on the go. You can follow them over on my Instagram account Chez Hanny. 

Originally I trained as a musician specialising in saxophone performance and composition. For 16 years I worked as a secondary school music teacher, until in 2023 I left behind the position of Director of Music to pursue my long standing passion and retrain as an interior designer. Rhythm, texture and harmony are key elements of design and so my musical background gives me a unique perspective when creating beautiful and practical interiors for my clients. 

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I'm a Francophile 🇫🇷 and take any opportunity I can to explore La Belle France. Increasingly, this crosses over with interior design in the form of visits to brocantes, vide greniers and ceramics studios in whichever region I find myself in. Sourcing unique and interesting pieces for my clients (and myself) often happens when I'm on the other side of the channel, so do get in touch if you're on the lookout for a particular item of furniture or ceramics.

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At present I am working on a book focusing on the many different meanings of the term 'home'. Writing is a creative outlet that I can't live without and, as well as working on my book, I publish weekly on Substack - Chez Hanny and host a podcast - Creative Career Change - which features women who have left the 9-5 behind and moved towards a more creatively fulfilling career. Just like I did.

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When I'm not designing or writing (or in France), I can be found pottering in my small garden (pictured). I've recently added a tiny pond and am amazed at the wildlife it has started to attract to this urban space. The natural environment significantly influences my creative work and I will always choose natural materials over synthetic, where possible, in my designs.

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Finding out about interests and hobbies is my starting point with any new client. This helps to guide the design scheme and allows me to craft something which is unique and special for you and your home.  

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I'd love to chat with you about your project and discuss how I can help to transform your home in a way which allows you to live better.​​