Kelly Hoppen CBE, the renowned British interior designer, has spent over four decades shaping the world of luxury interiors. From private homes and yachts to commercial spaces, her distinctive blend of Eastern and Western design philosophies has earned her a well-deserved reputation as a global tastemaker.
Her signature style—defined by a neutral palette, sleek lines, and harmonious balance—has transformed not just spaces, but how we experience the places we inhabit.
In this exclusive interview with The Life of Luxury, Kelly shares insights on her journey, her design principles, and what the future holds for Kelly Hoppen Interiors...
What initially drew you to interior design, and how has your journey evolved over the years?
I've always been passionate about interior design. Even as a child, I loved designing my room. My career journey began when I was just 16, designing a family friend's kitchen. That experience sparked a lifelong passion, and I've been fortunate enough to work on incredible projects, from private homes to super yachts and cruise ships. My aesthetic has evolved, but my core philosophy has remained consistent.
How would you define the "Kelly Hoppen look," and what principles or values underpin your design philosophy?
My look is defined by a neutral colour palette, clean lines, and a sense of harmony. It’s all about balance, symmetry, and creating functional yet beautiful spaces. I believe that a home should be a sanctuary—a place to relax and recharge. Focusing on space flow, natural light, and texture is key, with every detail carefully considered.
Could you tell us about a project or collaboration that has left a lasting impression on you?
There are many, but designing the interiors for the Celebrity Edge was groundbreaking. It felt like creating a luxury boutique hotel on water.
The project’s scale, innovative design solutions, and collaboration with a talented team made it incredibly special. It stands out as a milestone in my career and in redefining sea travel.
How do you adapt your approach when designing for different environments, and what considerations are most important to you?
Each environment presents its own challenges and opportunities. For residential homes, it's about creating a personal and comfortable space that reflects the homeowner's lifestyle.
For maritime interiors, I focus on durability and maximising limited space without compromising on luxury. The most important considerations are functionality, comfort, and aesthetic coherence. A space must serve its purpose while still being beautiful.
How do you translate your design ethos into tangible products like furniture and home accessories? What inspires your creations?
Creating products like furniture and home accessories is an extension of my interior design philosophy.
I’m passionate about making my style accessible to as many people as possible. I focus on simplicity, elegance, and timeless design, using high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
Inspiration comes from everywhere—nature, architecture, art, and my travels. The goal is to create pieces that are versatile and can seamlessly fit into various interiors.
What emerging trends do you foresee shaping the future of design, and how do you stay innovative in your practice?
Although I generally avoid following trends, I see sustainability and wellness becoming more prominent in design.
There's a growing emphasis on eco-friendly materials, maximising natural light, and incorporating biophilic elements. Creating healthier living environments is something that’s not just a trend—it’s here to stay.
Are there any trends you would advise people to avoid if they want to emulate the Kelly Hoppen design at home?
I always advise people to focus on creating a timeless base. Avoid overly faddish elements that may date quickly. Instead, invest in quality pieces with clean lines and neutral tones. You can always introduce trends through accessories or artwork, which can be easily updated. The key is to create a space that feels balanced, comfortable, and enduring.
Could you share a favourite project you're currently working on or a recent accomplishment that you're proud of?
Recently, we launched two amazing projects in China. I have a deep connection to Eastern culture, so it was a privilege to incorporate the beautiful environments and artwork of Foshan and Zhuhai into these residential projects.
This summer also saw the launch of Pearl 82, a new yacht design. Working on yachts is always a pleasure, and I love the challenge of working with such a sleek, fresh canvas.
How do you integrate principles of balance and wellness into your designs, and why do you believe it's crucial today?
Balance and wellness are at the core of my design ethos. In today's fast-paced world, our homes should be a sanctuary.
I integrate these principles by focusing on a harmonious colour palette, thoughtful space planning, and the use of natural materials. Adding indoor plants and maximising natural light significantly enhance the experience in any home.
A well-designed space can positively impact our mood, productivity, and wellbeing.
What future projects or ventures can your admirers anticipate from Kelly Hoppen Interiors? How do you envision your legacy within the world of design?
Many more residential and commercial projects are in the pipeline, including some exciting hotel designs that I can’t wait to share.
We’re also expanding our product collections, with more additions to my existing ranges.
I’ve always been passionate about making my work accessible to as many people as possible, which is why I design home products, write books, and share my tips on social media.
As for my legacy, I hope to be remembered for timeless design and a commitment to creating functional and harmonious spaces that enhance people’s lives. Inspiring others and leaving a lasting impact on the world of design is what I strive for.
To learn more about Kelly, visit: https://www.kellyhoppeninteriors.com/
All image credits go to Kelly Hoppen.
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