Meet Sean Symington - an interior designer celebrated for his “classic but whimsical” style, where traditional foundations meet a joyful, adventurous spirit. His work is instantly recognisable for its confident layering of textures, fearless use of print, and perfectly pitched pops of colour that bring every room to life. Since founding his boutique design firm in 2019, Sean has built a talented team operating from studios in Bath, London, and Tetbury, working on projects across the UK and internationally. With a knack for blending heritage details -think intricate paneling, antique finds, and architectural character - with contemporary flair, Sean creates interiors that feel timeless yet brimming with personality.

Both Sean and Birdie share a passion for creating interiors that feel personal, layered, and full of character. While Sean’s style blends classic elegance with playful whimsy, Birdie’s designs embrace vibrant textures and patterns with a curated yet relaxed approach. Together, their ethos celebrates interiors that evolve naturally over time - rich in colour, texture, and storytelling - making every room a warm, inviting reflection of the people who live there.

How do you begin designing a room or space from scratch? What’s your first step?

We enjoy beginning our design process with a hero print, a standout piece or inspiration point such as an incredible rug or stunning fabric. From this central piece, we pull from the entire colour palette. Usually it's a vibrant chintz or an exquisite patterned carpet. It's an excellent starting point. Choose something you adore and use it as your inspiration.

What’s a common design mistake people make and how can they avoid it?

⁠⁠I think people are scared of making decisions and then are therefore wishy-washy when it comes to designing their spaces. Be bold and don’t be worried about growing tired of something or not liking a print in the future. Layered interiors are great as they can evolve with you and being able to swap things out or build on top of an existing design will allow your space to adapt naturally over time.

How do you approach mixing patterns, textures, or colours without it feeling overwhelming?

Mixing patterns, textures and colours is a real art, it’s like solving a math equation! Repetition, scale and form are everything. We love layering a small-scale print with something bolder, or pairing a structured geometric with a loose, romantic floral. It’s all about balance. A punchy pink sofa might sound wild, but place a glossy red lamp across the room and suddenly it all makes sense and is balanced. Repeating tones or patterns, even subtly, helps ground the space. It should feel intentional but never stiff, collected, lived-in, and full of character.

What’s your go-to styling trick for instantly elevating a room?

Mixing pieces from different eras, every time. Imagine a sleek mid-century side table next to a classic Georgian wingback chair. It’s that contrast that adds depth and tells a story. We always say a room should feel collected, not curated. That’s what gives it soul.

Which trend are you loving right now, and which one would you happily leave behind?

We’re absolutely loving the return of maximalist, layered interiors. They feel personal, lived-in, and like they’ve evolved over time, not overly styled or “done.” It’s that slightly imperfect mix that gives a space real charm. On the flip side, the trend of waterfall edges on worktops I could gladly leave behind! 

What’s your guilty pleasure when it comes to interiors - something you secretly love that others might not expect?

I have to admit, I love a bit of tacky in a room! There’s something so joyful about throwing in a piece that’s a little kitsch. I recently picked up the cutest Easter bunny statues for next year’s table setting. They were cheap but too adorable to pass up. Honestly, I think a tacky hit in any room goes a long way! it keeps things light and doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Your one superpower, if you could choose?

It would be ever so helpful to be a mind reader in this industry! I would love the opportunity to read my client’s minds to fully grasp their personalities and exactly what they want! 

What has been your favourite project so far?

Oh gosh, it’s such a cliché but I really don’t think I can pick a favourite! Every project has been special in its own way and we’ve been so lucky to work with such lovely clients. That said, our most recently completed project, a gorgeous Tudor farmhouse, was an absolute dream. We had so much fun really leaning into the cosiness, layering it up with rich colours, bold prints, and tons of texture. It was all about creating a space that felt warm, characterful, and a little bit magical.

Describe your dream project - budget and location are no object!

No budget, full creative rein, and a client who shares the same aesthetic and just lets me run with it. I’m picturing a Georgian rectory in the English countryside… think original panelling, creaky floorboards, and endless rooms to layer with pattern, colour, and charm, I’d be in heaven!

What is your favourite way to spend time off, a long weekend or a holiday destination?

I love antiquing and perusing markets on any holiday I go to. I try to plan my holidays around pretty villages that are known for their antiques and markets. There’s nothing better than stumbling across a hidden gem you can bring home with you, it’s the best kind of souvenir!

Your favourite Birdie Fortescue piece, you’ve got your eye on next?

Right now I am coveting the Chik Rattan Lamp Base! I love its proportions and bit of colour in either green or blue. Its scale is wonderful and it would provide such impact in a room. The Ziggurat Kilim Rug is also a go-to for us! It has so many lovely colours we can pull from it. 

Sean Symington on Bold Choices, Layered Design, and Interiors That Evolve

At the heart of Sean's design philosophy is the bold embrace of personality: picking a “hero” piece to spark the palette, confidently layering pattern and texture, and weaving in playful, unexpected touches that lend soul and story to everyday spaces. Whether it’s mixing eras to lend depth or incorporating a bit of quirkiness to keep things fun, Sean’s work reminds us that true design isn’t about perfect styling - it’s about creating rooms that evolve with us, feel personal, and don’t take themselves too seriously.

If you’d like to reach out to explore a project, Sean’s team can be contacted via email at studio@seansymingtondesign.com, visit the website here, or simply follow him on Instagram for updates!

All image / photography credits to Chris Wakefield