How To Curate Your Space Like English Home Expert Lauren Olivia

Rip & Tan: How did you get your start in the design world? 

Lauren Olivia: I’ve always had a passion for design and a keen eye for detail. As a child, I constantly rearranged my bedroom furniture—I was never quite satisfied with the layout, always seeking the perfect arrangement. This early fascination with aesthetics evolved over time as I became more interested in personal style, architecture and interior styling.

After finishing college, unsure of my next steps, I joined my family’s small, independent kitchen studio. Initially, I viewed it as temporary—a way to stay busy while figuring out my future. However, within just a few weeks, I discovered a surprising enthusiasm for kitchen design. I quickly adapted and found great joy in the work, eventually spending eight years with the company where I both learned and taught design.

In 2022, I decided to take the leap and go freelance. Since then, I’ve continued to grow and learn every day and worked my way up to full-house interior design, architecture, and styling. I firmly believe that success doesn’t always require a traditional academic path—it’s about creative interest, enthusiasm, and hard work. 

Rip & Tan: Whether in feeling, process, signature elements, or something else—what makes a Lauren Olivia interior?

Lauren Olivia: Lauren Olivia represents more than just a beautiful interior; it embodies a feeling, a vibe, and a connection with the space, materials, and the pieces within it. I prefer not to set rigid rules or briefs for myself or my clients when working. I avoid trends and conventional design pairings that are typically deemed to “work well”, as such constraints often limit creativity and the willingness to explore interesting, unexpected items. I believe that pieces from various eras, styles, and regions can harmonize beautifully to create a unique and captivating look. If I had to encapsulate Lauren Olivia in three words, they would be timeless, minimal, and natural.

Rip & Tan: What’s your typical approach to a new project? Where do you start?

Lauren Olivia: I typically begin the process with an initial call or meeting with the potential clients. This gives us an opportunity to connect, discuss the project, and determine if we’re the right fit for each other. If everything aligns, we move on to the first phase—design. This phase usually starts with creating scheme boards based on our discussions, the client’s wishes, and our initial thoughts for the space. Once we have a direction, we proceed by measuring the space, either in person or from provided plans, and then developing the design plans, elevations, and renders. These are presented to the client along with sample boards, allowing them to see and feel the materials we’ve selected, which is really important to us. Typically, we go through one or two rounds of revisions before finalizing the designs and moving on to the subsequent phases of the project.

Rip & Tan: What story does this particular space tell? What was the vision?

Lauren Olivia: This project holds a special place for me. The client and I have a shared style as well as a similar vision for the space, which allowed us to clearly envision the end result before the initial designs were even complete. Our goal was to create a unique kitchen that felt like an inherent part of the house, blending seamlessly with its character while offering a modern, minimal take on a classic design. The core concept was a freestanding layout with distinct runs and various cabinet styles. This approach not only enhanced the uniqueness of the kitchen, but also distinguished it from more conventional designs—making it a standout element of the project.

Rip & Tan: If you had to pick—what’s your favorite detail in this space? Why?

Lauren Olivia: This is so difficult! If I had to choose, I think it would be a mixture of materials. It’s not just one lovely worktop or one beautiful handle—but it’s the varying materials and how they complement each other. I also love the custom travertine sink! Item-wise, that has to be my favorite.

Rip & Tan: We’re particularly struck by your use of natural materials and textures. How do you ensure a cohesive look while maintaining a layered aesthetic? 

Lauren Olivia: Thank you! At Lauren Olivia Design, natural and varied materials are central to the spaces we create. I have a few favorite materials that I often use like stone, wood, and metal. Within these categories, I particularly love working with marble, travertine, and limestone, as well as brass, bronze, and polished nickel, alongside various reclaimed and new woods. These materials are integral to all of my projects. When it comes to crafting a cohesive space with a range of materials, I recommend not overthinking it. Trust your instincts—choose what resonates with you and fits the space, the client, and the overall project. Often, there isn’t a definitive right or wrong choice, just different options that work in their own unique ways.

Rip & Tan: Interiors or otherwise, what’s inspiring you lately?

Lauren Olivia: I’m always inspired by when I take time away from my work and screen and I go travel! I often have a clearer mind whilst away and am more focused on the beauty around me—the nature, architecture, the people, and the lifestyle the people are living. I also find inspiration in more typical places, like social media—especially Instagram, where I follow many amazing creators, designers, and artists who inspire me daily.