Introducing Toni-Olivia, one of our Colour Consultants in Scotland
How long have you been working with colour and interiors?
I have been working in the design industry professionally since graduating from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design in 2019, where I studied Interior Environmental Design. Here I developed my spatial imagination, working at varying scales, contexts, and sites to develop my drawing, digital, making, and theoretical understanding of space.
How did you get into this role? Has it always been your passion?
Always! From a very young age I also knew I wanted to do something creative and Interior Design for me is the best of both worlds. I get to be creative most days coming up with conceptual concepts and ideas. While the other side of the job is very technical, when proposing an idea or scheme you have to be confident it will work. My dad has also worked in the building trade his entire life and I always remember looking over drawing packages with him. I think this is why 2D/3D modelling softwares is crucial to any design project for me.
What is the most fulfilling part of your role?
Of course seeing the final product and how everything has come together is hugely satisfying. Getting to work with incredibly talented designers and craftspeople, having the opportunity to explore ideas through creative conversation to ensure we come up with the best solution for the client. However, for me the most fulfilling part of the job is seeing a client’s confidence and personal style grow as we tackle each room.
What projects are you currently working on?
My biggest project at the moment is an entire renovation of a 15th century home. It has been a labour of love so far but will be worth it once finished. The building has many quirks and architectural details, throughout the renovation I have been learning more about the building’s history and implementing this into my proposal. One story goes that Mary Queen of Scots once stayed at the property! It has been both a challenge and a joy to work on.
You must get asked the same questions from customers? What are they?
“What do you think?” Is definitely my number one asked question. Some people can get so overwhelmed when choosing colour and all the decision making that comes along with a renovation. That is why the consultancy service is so valuable, during our session we get to the core of what the client wants, by asking the right questions and most importantly listening to their response to determine what they are really looking for. This way we achieve something that is truly authentic to the client and not trend driven.
What is hot right now?
Right now I am seeing two things, both on either side of the spectrum. The first being people are becoming much more curious with colour. What colour makes them feel good? What colour can they work in? What colour sparks joy? After 18 months working from home people are starting to realise how influential colour can be and we are seeing a definitive move away from Grey’s into more bold choices. Look out for bright yellows and warm ochres making an appearance. On the other side I am also seeing a move towards warm and natural colours, think nurturing pinks and terracotta tones. Colours that evoke comfort and a sense of simplicity after an intense year. People are wanting to pair back their interiors in order to be more sustainable, seeing a huge rise in interest in eco paint.
What’s the perfect way to introduce colour if you are a little overwhelmed?
Try introducing colour through accessories first for example painting a mirror or picture frame, up cycle a tired piece of furniture in a bold colour. The best thing about paint is it doesn’t have to be permanent- if you don’t love it just paint over it! So have fun experimenting with non fixed items and allow yourself to make mistakes this way when it comes to painting the entire room you won’t find it as hard to commit to colour.
Why should a customer choose a professional decorator like Paint my Home for their redecoration project?
Choosing Paint my Home gives you the assurance the job will be done right, the team’s high attention to detail and commitment to each client. Along with their vast history and trade knowledge to pull from clients can place their confidence in the team that the job will be done to the highest standard by the most skilled trades people.
Find out more about our interior colour consultancy service and get in touch today to discover how our team of professionally trained colour consultants can guide you through the best colours, shades and wallpapers to transform your home.
