At Mowlem & Co. our passion for interiors goes hand in hand with our love of bespoke kitchens. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of collaborating with many talented designers, and one who continues to inspire us through countless remarkable projects is Hamilford Design. Working together has been a true creative journey, one that has sparked fresh ideas, new concepts, and some truly exceptional spaces. We recently sat down with the driving force behind Hamilford Design, Manuela Hamilford, to talk about her inspirations, her current projects, and how she balances a thriving career with the demands of busy home life.

What’s your typical day like?


No two days are the same and my days are always varied – I might start the day in high vis on a building site and finish in a pair of heels, speaking on a panel discussion! I’m very hands on with all our projects, I love really getting to know clients, so that we can deliver something completely personal to them- so spend a lot of time meeting with them or I’ll be in the studio with the team, refining drawings or sourcing finishes. There’s also a fair amount of travel – both for projects abroad and for inspiration. I try to keep my days balanced, with time carved out to spend with my family – we often go to the Cotswold countryside for weekends and holidays.

What influences your design style? How do you stay inspired?


I grew up in Vicenza, surrounded by architecture and Italian craftsmanship, which gave me a deep appreciation for detail and heritage. My early career in New York sparked a love of bespoke interiors, and London keeps me inspired with its history, galleries and design culture.  My heritage definitely has a huge impact on my work too. Recently we were asked to redesign an iconic Italian restaurant in Knightsbridge. As I’m half Italian, born and raised there, I’m very familiar with the culture and food, it made designing so much easier and incredibly enjoyable. Travel plays a huge role too, I’m always collecting references, textures and ideas wherever I go. I find inspiration from my surroundings and travels.

What project have you particularly enjoyed recently and why?


The Cotswolds home, The Langley kitchen, we worked on with Mowlem and Co. was such a pleasure. The setting was serene, and the brief was to create something modern yet timeless. The kitchen we designed fitted seamlessly into the wider scheme, it feels elegant and functional. For me, the way the marble contrasted with the softer tones and how the fluted wood and bronze detailing played against it was just beautiful. It felt like a true collaboration, and the result really reflects the client’s lifestyle.

How would you describe the studio’s aesthetic? And what makes Hamilford Design different?


I’d say our aesthetic is refined and timeless, with warmth at its core. We don’t follow a strict house style; each project is tailored to the client and architecture. What makes us different is the way we bring those elements together so the end result feels personal, lived in, rather than overly designed.

Can you give us a peek into your address book?


We’re fortunate to work with extraordinary suppliers and makers, and Mowlem and Co. are a perfect example; your kitchens are always beautifully made and sit effortlessly within the spaces we design. Beyond that, it’s a mix of long-standing relationships with heritage brands, specialist craftspeople, and local artisans. As a designer, your suppliers become friends as well as trusted experts.

Which pieces are you especially coveting right now?


I’m very taken with sculptural lighting; pieces that bring a sense of art and atmosphere to a room. I’m also focused on layering textures: hand-finished metals, richly veined stone and hardware with real character. Last we’re seeing a continuation in a trend for curves – we weave in archways and furniture with softer silhouettes as much a possible.

Could you share three simple styling tips that bring big impact?


– As aforementioned – use curves to soften a home. We live in boxes and curves can add movement and intrigue. 
– Introduce natural textures; linen, stone, wood they instantly make a room fee grounded and our bodies respond to natural materials.
– Be selective. A space feels more luxurious when it’s edited and intentional.

How have you seen the landscape change for women working in luxury over the course of your career?


When I started, it was unusual to see women leading design studios, particularly on large international projects. Now, there are so many incredible female-led practices making their mark. 

What makes you happy in your own home?


Apart from my Boston terrier Simba – when in London, I love the layered textures and personal pieces we’ve collected, while in the Cotswolds it’s the connection to nature and family time.

Finally, please share one piece of advice to make a space feel just that little bit extra special.


Focus on the details you handle every day — a beautifully made tap, a marble worktop, a hand-cast handle. These smaller details can make a big difference.

A huge thank you to Manuela Hamilford for taking the time to thoughtfully answer our questions and share her insights. We look forward to collaborating on many more meaningful and inspiring projects together in the future.

Please do contact our Chelsea or Jesmond showrooms if you have any inquiries into potential creative projects.

In the meantime browse our collection of projects for inspiration.