In Conversation with HENRY PRIDEAUX

London-based interior designer, Henry Prideaux is known for combining classic and contemporary interior styles to create real homes with character and a focus on decorative detail. A brief chat with Henry Prideaux and you are transported into a world of interiors indulgence - where his unique stamp on creativity, elegance and practicality meet, to make his clients dream homes come alive. Influenced by Nicky Haslam when working as a designer in his studio, Henry Prideaux Interior Design has been running since 2014.

We enjoyed getting to know more about Henry, as he shared with us some amazing tips for young creatives starting out on their own Interior Design careers.

Hayche: What inspired you to be an interior designer?

Henry Prideaux: My passion for interior design began as a young boy when I was a pupil at Harrow School where I dressed my bedroom each term with decorative furnishings to give it personality. Since then I have been inspired by many interior design greats and hugely influenced by Nicky Haslam when working as a designer at his studio - NH Design, before starting my own practice in 2014.

Hayche: If they were to make a toy action figure of you, what would your accessory be?

Henry Prideaux: My new baker boy-style hat (by Stetson), a tape measure, and a squash racket for days off!

Hayche: To what degree have you actually controlled the course your life within the design world has taken?

Henry Prideaux: Early on in my career, I (somewhat boldly) approached Nicky Haslam directly and asked if he had any vacancies. Fortunately, he took a punt on me and gave me a job as an interior designer then taught me how to think creatively outside the norm. I also spent a number of years working for the interior design studio at Harrods and eventually felt I had the necessary design skills, technical ability and industry contacts to go it alone and start my own practice.

Photo courtesy of Henry Prideaux Interior Design

Hayche: What would be your dream interior project?

Henry Prideaux: I'd love to design a large private residence with beautiful interior architectural features and generous proportions that also incorporated a range of sports and wellness facilities such as a squash court, tennis courts, yoga studio and a swimming pool with spa...

Hayche: What’s something you know you do differently than most people?

Henry Prideaux: Although sometimes time-consuming, I still like to design using hand-sketching. Drawing by hand is becoming almost obsolete yet the overall effect is much more evocative than that achieved when presenting CAD drawings.

Photo courtesy of Henry Prideaux Interior Design

Hayche: If you could go back in time and speak to your adolescent self, what advice would you give them about the design world?

Henry Prideaux: To attend lots of interesting industry events where you should introduce yourself to as many influential people as you can to gain inspiration whilst making yourself known; learn to use AutoCAD (for efficiency); and, if you feel that your routine is becoming too comfortable, embrace change sooner than later to progress in your career.

 

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