27th June 2025 | IN EXPERT INSIGHT | BY SBID Share Tweet Pinterest LinkedIn The SBID UK Interior Design Icons were selected to recognise leading design practices throughout the UK who have consistently displayed exceptional standards within our esteemed industry network. This week’s instalment of the SBID Icon Insights series features Bernard Interiors. Founded in 2008 by Jen Bernard, Bernard Interiors is a highly successful, award-winning practice with a long-standing track record of designing prime residential and commercial projects ranging from £2M – £120M throughout the UK and abroad. Bernard Interiors What steps do you take to stay at the forefront of the design industry? Travel allows me to stay at the forefront of design by exposing me to diverse cultures, trends, and innovative ideas from around the world. Each new destination offers fresh inspiration, whether it’s through architecture, art, or local craftsmanship, keeping my design perspective dynamic and forward-thinking. The global experiences I gather help me incorporate unique elements into our work, ensuring it remains relevant and cutting-edge. Bernard Interiors What trends do you see shaping the future of interior design? I see several key trends shaping the future of interior design. First, there’s a strong focus on creating “happy interiors,” spaces that promote positivity and well-being. This ties into the growing emphasis on at-home wellness, where design is used to enhance mental and physical health. Additionally, wellness is making its way into the business world, with companies prioritising environments that support employee well-being. Lastly, I believe there’s a return to classic, timeless design—moving away from fleeting trends and investing in enduring aesthetics that never go out of style. Bernard Interiors Do you have a signature style or hallmark design approach? My signature style is rooted in timeless and classic design, creating spaces that feel both enduring and elegant. I love layering rich textiles – such as luxurious fabrics and textured materials – to add depth and warmth. Standout art pieces are key in my approach, serving as focal points that tell a story and evoke emotion. I also incorporate antiques with superior craftsmanship, blending history with modern sensibilities to create unique, well-curated environments. The result is a harmonious balance of sophistication, comfort, and personality that transcends trends. Bernard Interiors How do technology and innovation influence your work? Technology in the Care sector is increasingly influencing the way we approach design within our Commercial projects. To support an ageing population, we must stay at the forefront of innovation, incorporating smart technologies and accessible design solutions. This means creating spaces that aid independence, such as incorporating adaptive layouts, assistive devices, and user-friendly technologies. By considering the needs of both residents and operators, we can design environments that not only enhance quality of life but also make it easier for care providers to deliver the best support possible. Bernard Interiors What sets your work apart in the industry? What sets us apart is our unwavering attention to detail and our ability to inject warmth into every project. We take a holistic approach, considering every aspect of a space to ensure it feels cohesive and purposeful. Our passion for design is evident in everything we do – we genuinely care about the outcome, and it matters to us that our work not only meets but exceeds expectations. It’s this dedication and personal investment that make our projects truly stand out. Bernard Interiors How do you collaborate with other professionals, such as architects and engineers? Project management is what sets us apart, a skill I proudly honed from my late father. While we are a highly creative team, our complementary business and operational skills ensure robust procedures that, according to third parties, make us a dream to work with. The process is seamless, with egos parked at the door and a focus on open communication, collaboration, and accountability – key attributes that drive our success. We pride ourselves on translating our clients’ visions into reality with precision and expertise. Our project management team oversees every stage of the design and build process adhering to the RIBA stages, from assessing development potential to concept refinement, and from architectural planning to securing approvals. Whether collaborating with an existing team or managing the entire process in-house, we ensure a seamless journey from concept to completion. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence, our approach guarantees that every project is executed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. Bernard Interiors Do you have key partnerships with suppliers, manufacturers, or brands? I believe in investing in long-term relationships with both suppliers and clients, and I’m proud to still work with many I first engaged with over 16 years ago. People and relationships are at the core of what I do, built on trust, loyalty, and a commitment to best practices. These enduring partnerships create a strong foundation for mutual success and continuous growth. For example, recent collaborations include Julian Chichester X Bernard London – The Monterey Collection – a capsule collection launching in March at London Design Week and in April at High Point Market. “This collection provides a unique opportunity to deliver a collection that combines heritage with innovation – exquisite pieces that are not only visually stunning but also functional and worthy of a Global stage.” About Bernard Interiors Founded in 2008 by Jen Bernard, we are a highly successful, award-winning practice with a long-standing track record of designing prime residential and commercial projects ranging from £2M – £120M throughout the UK and abroad. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and delivering excellence for our clients, our hand-picked talent has been drawn from across the design spectrum to ensure exceptional results. Our approach to each project is unique, working collaboratively across our studio, our talented team ensure our creative direction and design magnifies and perpetrates your underlying vision. From initial sketch to install – we execute with precision to deliver your dream home or realise your property investment return. Visit Profile If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.