‘How I design my day’
Juggling projects, managing deadlines and keeping the creative juices flowing… Just how does interior designer Sarah Ellison of Frank & Faber do it?
‘I exercise first thing in the morning (even if I have to drag myself out of bed) – usually a run around nearby Victoria Park, which is a lovely way to start the day.
‘One of the joys of my job is there’s no set pattern to the day, partly because we work with such a wide variety of clients across a range of sectors – from residential to high-end salons, gyms, cafés and workspaces. Some days might start with an 8.30am site meeting to check on the status of a build and work with the contractor to resolve any outstanding queries. These normally take a few hours and require a lot of problem-solving, which is very satisfying.
‘I often have to prepare for an important client presentation – I’ll sit down and focus on my key points and run through what I’m going to say. Where possible, I cycle between meetings (it’s a great way to clear your head ready for the next challenge) –and I have been known to carry lumps of concrete from Hackney to Notting Hill!
‘If I haven’t got an appointment, I’ll head back to the studio in Dalston to check in with the team. Communication is vital and it’s good to catch up on information from any calls or meetings my colleagues may have had.
‘Then I’ll get to work on existing projects or new briefs. This could be drawing, sourcing materials and finishes, or coming up with new design concepts. I love the time I spend collaborating with the team. Plus, we are lucky enough to work with a range of experts from across the industry and share our office with some great architects – we all support and learn from each other every day.
‘I LOVE doing yoga at the end of the day – I’d really recommend it as the perfect way to unwind the brain. Then it’s dinner with friends, either out locally, or at one of our homes.
‘If I had an extra hour in the day – which is my dream – I’d love to really pursue another creative pastime, such as painting. Or I’d take time to play the piano, or visit my local rowing club, as I’ve recently taken up the sport.’