Bethany Prince – SHH Architecture & Interiors
Bethany Prince is an Associate Director at SHH Architecture & Interiors in London, where she leads interior design and FF&E for some of the practice’s most refined residential projects. Over her years with SHH, she has developed a reputation for her calm, detail-driven approach and her ability to translate a client’s lifestyle into interiors that feel effortless, welcoming, and quietly luxurious.
Her work spans super-prime homes throughout London and internationally, with a particular expertise in Grade II listed buildings and complex refurbishments. Bethany’s design sensibility is rooted in harmony and material depth — pairing functional clarity with nuanced layers of texture, craftsmanship, and spatial balance.
Known for guiding clients through every stage of the creative journey, she leads design teams with a thoughtful, patient hand, ensuring each project carries a sense of cohesion and intention. Recent projects include residences in Mayfair, Notting Hill, and Knightsbridge, where her refined eye and contemporary classicism have become a signature thread throughout her work.
1. Could you tell us how your journey into interior design started?
My journey into interior design really began with my family, who were already deeply connected to the industry. That early exposure gave me an appreciation for creativity and design. At school, I had an incredible teacher who nurtured my love of fashion and trends. She took me on trips to London, where we explored galleries and exhibitions. Those experiences opened my eyes to design beyond the classroom. Later, I was lucky to find like-minded friends who encouraged me to pursue design seriously. With one of those friendships, Lauren, we ended up working together at SHH, which really marked the beginning of a joint professional path.
2. Do you think there has been a defining moment in your career?
Yes, definitely. For me, it was when I started travelling and working on international projects. Until then, much of my work had been on paper, but stepping into projects abroad transformed my perspective. One of the earliest milestones was a residential sales apartment project in India. I had the opportunity to source materials and pieces locally in Mumbai, working directly with artisans and workshops. That experience taught me the value of blending global design with local craftsmanship, and it’s something that continues to influence my work today.
3. What do you think is the key to a successful interior design? And in your business in general?
I think the foundation of any successful project is clear and honest communication with the client. It’s so important to really understand the brief, what they want to achieve, how they live, and what they want the space to feel like. From there, my role is to guide them through the process, offering options and solutions that align not only with their vision but also with the values we hold at SHH: integrity, collaboration, and flair. When there’s a strong dialogue and a shared trust, that’s when projects truly flourish.
4. How do you start your interior design projects? Do you usually start with a certain element of design or a keyword? And how do they develop?
Every project begins with a face-to-face meeting with the client, ideally at the property itself. There’s something invaluable about experiencing the space together, it sparks conversations and observations that wouldn’t happen otherwise. From that initial meeting, I often identify keywords or themes that become the narrative thread of the design. Those ideas evolve into mood boards, sketches, and material palettes, and eventually into the full design. The process is both structured and organic, allowing the concept to develop naturally while always staying anchored to the client’s brief.
5. How would you define your signature style? Do you have “a mantra” that encapsulates your taste in design?
When working with clients, I always put their vision first. Every project should feel personal and tailored to them rather than to me. That said, I’m naturally drawn to a balance between classic and contemporary design. I love creating spaces that feel timeless yet fresh, where traditional details meet modern finishes. If I had a mantra, it would be about finding harmony between heritage and innovation, so the design feels both enduring and relevant.
6. What are your 3 favorite pieces from the Philia Collection?
Chunky Classic Travertine Side Table & Stool by Etamorph – This item stands out for its texture and simple materiality.
Prometheus X Pendant Light by Christopher Boots – Really beautiful contemporary style, ideal for a modern look.
Slit Mirror by Phillip Jividen – A simple sculptural piece that takes on the reflection of its surroundings.
7. Could you tell us about one of the favorite projects that you worked on?
One of my favourite projects was a renovation for a client in Central London who was truly invested in every stage of the process. It was a five-year journey, and that time allowed us to create something really special. The design was playful, with layers of detail that made the house feel dynamic and full of character. Each room had its own purpose and personality, with every space carefully planned—even down to where the Christmas tree would stand. Some of the highlights included a cinema with its own bar that had a cool, nightclub vibe, as well as a dedicated cocktail bar and lounge. It was a project that pushed creativity while also being deeply personal to the client, which made it incredibly rewarding.
8. If you could pick one interior design tip that is important to you, what would it be?
For me, scale is fundamental. Getting the proportions right can completely transform a space, whether it’s the size of the furniture in relation to the room, the artwork on the walls, or even the way lighting fixtures are positioned. It’s about finding what looks and feels balanced. A great example of this is our project at Athlone House, where scale played a key role in creating harmony throughout the interiors.
9. What was the best advice you have received in your path?
The best advice I’ve been given is to never say no. Design is all about interpretation, and there’s always a way to make something work. Even if the request seems challenging at first, the key is to stay open-minded and resourceful. Striving to facilitate what the client needs, even in unexpected ways, can often lead to the most creative and fulfilling solutions.
10. What would be your advice to beginner interior designers?
Be endlessly open to learning. Interior design is an ever-evolving industry, with new materials, technologies, and ways of living constantly shaping our work. Stay inquisitive, curious, and adaptable. It’s that openness that will allow you to grow, find your voice, and keep your designs relevant over time.
11. What was one of the hardest learned lessons in your journey?
One of the biggest learning curves for me has been understanding how to deal with mistakes. Early on, I saw them as setbacks, but over time I realised they’re actually opportunities to grow and refine the process. Another important lesson has been learning how to manage people, keeping the team connected while still giving everyone the autonomy to do their best work. Striking that balance can be challenging, but it’s also very rewarding.
12. Are there any books/podcasts you would like to recommend to our readers?
Kelly Wearstler’s book – Kelly Wearstler is a great designer because she masterfully blends bold colours, luxurious textures, and sculptural forms to create spaces that feel both timeless and daringly modern.
13. Finally, what are your upcoming projects? Anything you’d like to share or add to the interview?
We’re currently working on multiple residential apartments that explore the juxtaposition between classic and modern design. It’s about bringing timeless architectural details together with contemporary finishes and lifestyles—creating homes that feel both rooted in tradition and perfectly suited for today.
Thank you so much Bethany, for this lovely interview!