We interviewed Hilary & Holly Clarke of HC Interiors. This mother daughter duo have an eye for beautiful design. Here’s what they had to say.
You are a mother daughter team. Tell us how you came to work together. How do you complement each other as designers?
Hilary: Holly has had a keen eye for design from a young age. There was never any question that after she qualified as a designer that she would join me. I have a practical eye and Holly has the style and attention to detail to bring the desired look together effectively.
Holly: Mum started her business when I was quite young so for as long as I remember I was surrounded by beautiful things and visited wholesalers and suppliers with mum. I made the decision to follow in her footsteps very early on and I am so grateful that I did. We both trust one another implicitly and mum brings her many years of experience and rapport with people in the industry and I bring a fresh approach to the design side… along with much-needed computer skills!
What projects get you excited? Tell us about some of your recent projects and why they were enjoyable.
We love the challenge of a renovation project or new-build. We really enjoy being a part of the process from beginning to completion.
We were recently involved in the design phase of the new coffee bar and patisserie section of the Boatshed. We had the opportunity to select the materials used and work with inspiring local talent. It was such a pleasure to see the result and to hear the positive feedback from Boatshed customers first-hand.
At the moment we are working closely with a client who is building a beautiful family home overlooking a golf-course in Dalkeith. In the initial stages, we looked very closely at the general layout and achieving the best ‘flow’ and use of space. Now we are in the process of selecting all the finishes and lighting which is always exciting as you are creating the ‘canvas’ of the home.
What style trends (or predictions) inspire you at the moment?
We can see a move towards very tactile fabrics with plenty of texture and those made of natural fibres. People are being more adventurous with colour and showing more of a willingness to push the boundaries.
There is also a resurgence to support ‘local’- there is definite growth in the local furniture market which is great to see.
Do you have any tips on how a customer should choose fabrics, leathers, colour palettes and designs. What should they look out for or keep in mind?
Durability is very important when it comes to choosing upholstery fabrics. We always try to select the best quality fabric/leather to suit the use and budget. You want to select something that will stand the test of time. One of our go-to upholstery fabrics is ‘Warwick Husk’ as it always makes up beautifully, it is a very stable fabric and the colour range is easy to work with.
In terms of colour and design, choose something that echoes your style and not necessarily current trends. Don’t be afraid of colour and pattern- if you love it you won’t tire of it quickly. Don’t play it too safe, you should love every piece in your home.
What is your favourite Torrance & McKenna design and how would you customise it?
Hilary: The Grasby Chair as the comfort level is incomparable and the classic design can be incorporated into any space. I like to see the Grasby upholstered in a lovely linen with twin stitching detail to replace the piping along with walnut feet to give it an easy, casual but classic appeal.
Holly: My favourite design is the Cello contemporary wingback chair. This design has a timeless elegance that is easily adaptable to any space. From a glamorous riverside apartment to a casual family home, it’s beautiful. Depending on the fabric/leather chosen it can take on a totally different look.
Are you ready to see more inspiration from Hillary & Holly?
View Hilary & Holly’s Pinterest Board for Torrance + McKenna.
About Hilary & Holly
HC Interiors is a boutique mother and daughter business, offering a complete interior design and decorating service.
The business specialises in sophisticated residential and small-scale commercial projects. With abundant professional experience and keeping true to their core values of high quality and timeless elegance, Hilary and Holly offer a unique and personalised approach to each of their clients.
Find out more at www.hcinteriors.com.au