© Kensington Leverne

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

I was always the kid who loved art class, knowing that I would dedicate my life to something in the creative realm. I started studying architecture at university because, in Mexico, interior design wasn’t a well-developed career. Usually, architects would specialise in interiors. After nearly two semesters in architecture, I realised I wasn’t interested in building skyscrapers; rather, I loved the intricacies of interiors: architectural details, furniture, composition, colour, and texture.

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

I have been working as an interior designer for over 18 years. Nearly 10 of those years were spent with Martin Brudnizki, who has been a real mentor to me. He also gave me a lot of freedom, and I owe so much of my formative years in hospitality design to him and Pascale Belot, the design director.

Kingsley Road, private residency © Kensington Leverne

Kingsley Road, private residency © Kensington Leverne

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

A successful interior starts with practicalities that may not be immediately seen but are certainly felt, such as the flow of a space and its functionality. For example, in a members’ club, creating intimacy allows for private conversations while still feeling part of the collective and having the energy of a vibey space. The visual aspects of the course, the harmony between textures and colours, weave a narrative throughout the project. The details, warmth, and lighting are crucial; without a great lighting scheme, an interior cannot succeed. We’ve all sat at a restaurant table with an unflattering spotlight above our heads, a definite no for me. Additionally, the ability to evolve, explore, and remain current without being repetitive is vital.

The first thing is the client brief, looking at the building (if existing) and its context. From there, we create a narrative for the space—what is the thread that will link all the spaces together and solidify the design? Inspiration could come from anywhere, and it may be something small or simple that becomes the foundation of it all. Each project is uniquely different.

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

I would prefer to say that I don’t have a signature style, as I believe we should be chameleons in our studio and take on very different projects. The commonality or mantra in our work is that we start each project afresh, avoiding formulaic designs. We are a very creative studio and love to push ourselves into the finer details, ensuring our work is highly bespoke. I believe our projects possess a unique soul and warmth.

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

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

All projects become like your children, it’s a bit like having to choose a favourite. The house in Antwerp was particularly special, as the client and I had incredible synergy. The project I did with my brother in Mexico City holds great significance as well; it was wonderful to create something together. We have several projects wrapping up by the end of this year and in Q1 of 2026, which we’re very excited about, including those in Lisbon, Vienna, Amsterdam, and Porto.

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

Don’t forget about your ceilings; they are one of the largest surfaces in a room that you can design!

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

The best advice I received was to resist the temptation of taking projects solely to ‘keep the lights on.’ Early on, there is a fear that if you say no, the work will stop coming. But I learned that true success comes from alignment. My clients’ needs in terms of style and vision should match my strengths as a designer. It is better to pass on a project than to deliver a result that is anything less than exceptional.

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

Work with different people and designers. Identify what it is that you like and thrive at. Follow your intuition; I truly believe that creativity is largely about intuition.

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

The most profound lesson was realizing that creative talent is merely the entry ticket to this industry. As my business grew, I understood that being a good designer is a necessary but not sufficient condition for success. To execute complex visions, you need a rigorous process and a cohesive team. I learned that structure doesn’t stifle creativity; it is actually the foundation that allows the design to land exactly as intended.

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

I highly recommend the book “Butter” by Japanese writer Asako Yuzuki, which is based on a true crime story. I really enjoyed reading it. One of my all-time favourites is the autobiography of Peggy Guggenheim: “Out of this Century – Confessions of an Art Addict”.

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

We are wrapping up several F&B projects in Lisbon, Vienna, Porto, and Amsterdam. Later this year, we are completing a house in Primrose Hill and a members’ club in Vietnam. The year 2026 is shaping up to be significant for us, with many projects finishing and others beginning.

Wow! House, London, June 2022

Thank you so much Stephanie, for this lovely interview!