What to consider when starting a career in interior design.
by Eva Sonaike
Eva Sonaike
Eva Sonaike is an interiors company headquartered in London, renowned for its distinct design, craftsmanship and quality.
The company creates and distributes high quality interior goods including her signature cushions, interior fabrics, lampshades, rugs, occasional furniture and the new wallpaper range, all with African pattern and uplifting colours remaining at the heart of each collection.
Under the creative direction of Eva Sonaike, the company has positioned itself as a premium interiors brand that appeals to a discerning clientele who appreciate quality and unique design. This is reflected in the innovation that characterises each new collection, combining exclusivity, outstanding quality and attention to detail.
What’s your top tip for anyone starting their career in the Interior Design industry?
Interior design goes beyond fluffing cushions and shopping for furnishings. It requires a strategic approach to spatial design, encompassing calculations, measurements, planning, budgeting, and client management, among other elements. If you're passionate about blending creativity with these skills, interior design offers an excellent career path.
What are the top five qualities you are looking for in a new employee?
The most important quality is an innate passion for interior design, in my case, particularly in bold textiles and colours - a trait that cannot be taught.
Essential follow-ups include strong organisational and administrative skills, adept communication with clients in various formats, and the ability to bring fresh ideas to the team while also excelling in independent work.
What is the best thing an applicant/ new employee can do to impress you?
Arrive prepared: Research our company, understand our mission, and know your own strengths.
How do you think an applicant can stand out from the crowd?
A successful applicant can showcase their unique qualities and ideas by being authentic and passionate about what they do.
Social media and online portfolios offer excellent platforms to exhibit their interests, past work and projects, and how they connect with others in the industry.
How do you define professionalism?
Professionalism is a combination of being knowledgeable, well-mannered, adept at multitasking, and possessing the ability to think and plan ahead. This combination of attributes empowers us all to make informed decisions, treat others with respect and courtesy, whilst being firm, able to efficiently handle multiple responsibilities, and anticipate challenges with proactive strategies.
What are the top three reasons you might reject an applicant, and do you have any tips for candidates?
Not researching our company and what we stand for, being unreliable and late for interviews and appointments, and making significant spelling mistakes in their application and/or email.
Tell us the one thing you wish you’d know about a career in Interior Design when you started out?
I've realised that the significance of people skills and psychological insights in client interactions far surpasses what I initially thought. When prospective clients approach us, eager to learn about our services, I now recognize the importance of developing a deeper connection with the client, whilst keeping it professional. After attentively listening to their vision for the property, I make it a priority to engage in a meaningful conversation over a cup of coffee. This allows me to truly understand their aspirations and their family's needs.
It's essential to remember that design is not just about aesthetics; it's about crafting spaces that resonate with the individuals who will inhabit them. To offer a great service, we must grasp the intricacies of our clients. By investing time and effort into understanding our clients personally, we can create spaces that reflect their unique personalities and lifestyles.