Fashionable Design kellyhoppen

Kelly Hoppen is an institution in the design world. Beginning almost 40 years ago when she designed a friend’s kitchen, the London-based interior designer has l e f t her mark on c e l e bri t y homes including that of the Beckhams, Madonna, and actor Sienna Miller (also her stepdaughter), iconic hotels (LUX* Island Resorts in Mauritius) and restaurants, aircrafts, yachts, and offices across the globe. Recently in India to launch a luxury tower in New Cuffe Parade, Mumbai, which she has designed for the Lodha Group, the award-winning designer chatted with Bazaar about her ongoing projects and major achievments.

I love the vibrant colours that dominate Indian landscapes and culture. My association with Lodha Group has been a perfect meeting of minds and design vision. It’s also my first visit to the country—I’ve been waiting to come here a long time and I want to see everything that the country has to offer. My signature style i s neutral yet opulent. I like to create elegant spaces that are warm and functional. We are working on about 40 projects across the world. My collaboration with Pearl Yachts holds a special place in my heart as I always admired their work.

I l oved running my eponymous design school and being able to pass on my knowledge. It’s my way of giving back from all that I’ve achieved and learnt. I had to stop the classes due to lack of time but it led me to write my latest book Design Masterclass.

As an entrepreneur, I think each day is challenging but nothing is an obstacle. I’ve been designing for 38 years and I have no real memory of an obstacle.

My proudest moment so far has been receiving my MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) from Queen Elizabeth in 2009 for services to interior design. It’s amazing to be recognised for doing something that I love.

Self-belief is important. To succeed, you must have the tenacity to endure challenges and believe in what you are doing.

I deeply disagree when people say women can’t have everything. In fact, we can! We can give birth and have a family, and we can also have a career and run our own business.

I’d definitely like to be painted by Julian Schnabel. I really admire his works—his surface textures are amazing.