Julianne grew up in the design business as daughter to Kevin and Carol Kelly who were prominent designers in Dublin.  She started her career in fashion, eventually gravitating back to interiors, and finally taking the reins of the family business in 2011. The influence of her travels, work in fashion, interest in history of art and architecture, and knowledge of the elite design houses can be seen in her interior schemes. Specialising in residential interiors, Julianne particularly enjoys designing schemes using an eclectic mix from top international design houses. She also decorates and consults on boutique, restaurant and apartment projects.

The business started in 1976, with four decades of design experience to build on Julianne was excited to rebrand from Kevin Kelly Interiors to Julianne Kelly Interiors at the start of 2020. Julianne’s own home has featured in the Irish Times, Ideal Homes magazine, Sunday Independent, Sunday Times, The Gloss,The Tribune, and House and Home magazine. 

1. Could you tell us how your journey into interior design started?

My parents worked in design, so I was always surrounded by conversations about interior design and décor growing up. However, I initially wanted to pursue a career in fashion. After several years working in fashion, I found my passion shifting more towards interiors, especially once I had my own place to design.

2. Do you think there has been a defining moment in your career?

Landing a front cover piece in Ireland’s top interiors magazine in my mid-twenties made people take me more seriously in my own right – not just as someone following in my parents’ footsteps. It also freed me from any imposter syndrome I had.

3. What do you think is the key to a successful interior design? And in your business in general?

The key to a successful interior design is creating a cohesive flow throughout the home with careful planning, while also avoiding impulsive purchases that might disrupt the overall design. In business, success comes down to teamwork and a commitment to striving to deliver the highest quality and attention to detail in everything we do. 

Every project we take on is unique—ranging from full house renovations to refreshing just a room or two. A significant part of our business comes from repeat clients who update their spaces every year or so, allowing us to build strong relationships with them.

With every project, I believe it all begins with the client falling in love with one key element, whether it be a certain colour or fabric, and from there, everything else naturally evolves.

5. How would you define your signature style? Do you have “a mantra” that encapsulates your taste in design?

I definitely love colour, warmth, and pattern, but I wouldn’t say I have a single defining style. My approach is about blending classic and contemporary elements while also discovering and tailoring each design to reflect our clients’ unique tastes and suit their lifestyles. Our mantra, Redefining Elegance, speaks to our philosophy of always striving to elevate a space, bringing in sophistication and elegance that feels timeless and personal.

6. What are your 3 favorite pieces from the Philia Collection?

Wow, loved everything. Could run away with all the ottomans! So much fun. Difficult to choose, but here’s my final wishlist. 

7.  Could you tell us about one of the favorite projects that you worked on?

I love working with families and truly getting to know them. I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with multiple generations, siblings, cousins, and multiple houses. Being involved in the most intimate details of people’s lives allows me to build deep, trusted, and loyal relationships, which is something I truly cherish.

8. If you could pick one interior design tip that is important to you, what would it be? 

If it’s your forever home, take your time and do it right. Avoid buying bargains just for the sake of it—less is more in a world full of clutter. Invest in high-quality pieces and the best you can afford, as they will stand the test of time when chosen wisely.

9. What was the best advice you have received in your path?

Enjoy it because it all goes so fast. This year marks my 20th year in the business, and it still feels like yesterday when I started. 

10. What would be your advice to beginner interior designers?

Get as much experience as you can. While you are studying, make sure to get a job in the industry, as practical experience counts for so much more than what you learn in college.

11. What was one of the hardest learned lessons in your journey?

I would say that managing a business is the biggest challenge. As the team grows, there’s so much more to consider beyond just design. It’s essential to stay focused on the right path and not get caught up in the day to day challenges of running the business.

12. Are there any books/podcasts you would like to recommend to our readers?

I always listen to Business of Home for Industry information. Smartless for a break… It’s like popcorn for the ears! And for books, I’ve just discovered Ken Follett and I’m loving the history lessons! 

13. Finally, what are your upcoming projects? Anything you’d like to share or add to the Interview?

It’s going to be a busy year ahead with lots of growth and travel planned. We’re currently working on lots of projects outside of Dublin which is exciting, and bringing us to new areas in Ireland. Lots of repeat, loyal clients and also new lovely faces so it’s shaping up to be a big year! 

Thank you so much Julianne, for this lovely interview!