Jill Simpson - Jill Simpson Interiors
What inspired you to start Jill Simpson Interiors?
I grew up in Newcastle and studied Law at Nottingham University, but quickly realised a legal career wasn’t for me. Drawn instead to creativity and business, I began a career in advertising at Saatchi & Saatchi and later Lowe Lintas.
A move to Chamonix proved unexpectedly pivotal. I renovated our chalet, turning it into an upside-down house so the living spaces could make the most of the mountain views, and discovered a real passion for interiors.
Back in the North East, I continued renovating properties, with Dumbreck House becoming the turning point that convinced me to change career. I completed a PGDip with the British Academy of Interior Design, graduating with Distinction last November. Launching Jill Simpson Interiors felt like a natural next step.
Where do you find your inspiration?
Art, travel, architecture, fashion and design all influence my work. A recent trip to Japan particularly inspired me with its simplicity, attention to detail and thoughtful design.
Closer to home, growing up in Newcastle, places such as Central Arcade, Grey Street and Grainger Market gave me an early appreciation for buildings with history and character.
I’m particularly drawn to the Arts and Crafts philosophy — craftsmanship, honest materials, connection with nature and creating spaces with meaning.
What sets Jill Simpson Interiors apart?
Colourful, characterful and full of personality. My philosophy is to create spaces that make the ordinary feel extraordinary by giving them true personality and meaning.
What does your creative process look like?
It starts with understanding how people live or work, what they need and how they want the space to feel.
I believe in getting the bones of a space right before thinking about decoration. From there, I develop the concept through layouts, materials and colour before moving into sourcing and implementation.
Is there a project you’re especially proud of?
Dumbreck House will always be special because it prompted me to change career.
Its kitchen and dining extension has since been shortlisted for a BIID Interior Design Award. I love that it hasn’t simply changed the appearance of the house; it has changed the way we live in and enjoy our home. For me, that’s what good interior design should do.
Tell us about your BIID Award shortlist.
I was absolutely delighted to be shortlisted, particularly having only graduated last November and launched Jill Simpson Interiors this year.
As someone who came to interior design as a second career, it’s also a lovely reminder that it’s never too late to pursue something you genuinely love.
What’s the biggest misconception about interior design?
That it’s primarily about choosing paint colours, furniture and cushions!
It’s about understanding how a space is used, improving its layout and flow and creating an environment that reflects the people who live there — or, commercially, the essence of a brand. Decoration should be the culmination of that thinking, not the starting point.
What would you love the next chapter of Jill Simpson Interiors to look like?
I’m currently working on a Northumberland wine bar and Airbnb project alongside Bath House Interiors, and next year begin designing a fitness retreat in France for CGR Cooke, alongside several residential renovations.
Longer term, I want Jill Simpson Interiors to become known for creating spaces with personality and meaning — across the North East and beyond.
jillsimpsoninteriors.co.uk