Insider Interview #7: Emilie, Emilie Fournet Interiors

Francone Bespoke Taps is lucky enough to work with some stellar interior designers who turn our products into something incredible. Welcome to Insider Interviews, our series where we chat to design experts about their inspiration, unique style and why they choose Francone Bespoke Taps.

In this edition of the series, we sat down with the founder of Emilie Fournet Interiors. Emilie specialises in residential interior design for private clients and architectural partnerships. Based in London, Emilie has a track record in spectacular period transformations, reimagined contemporary spaces, and unique designs for life in and out of the city. The studio has earned its reputation over the years for an accomplished eye for detail, understanding of colour, and ability to stay true to a property's period.

Photo: Caitlin Mogridge Photography

Can you tell us about your journey as an interior designer so far?

I’ve always had a fascination with interiors and architecture from a young age. I grew up in France not far from a Le Corbusier estate so that was an early inspiration. I’ve always loved doing up my bedrooms as I grew up but never really thought that it could be a career. Until 2013, after I had my second child, I knew that I couldn’t go back to my past life and really needed to find a more creative outlet. Then opportunities presented themselves and I finally took the plunge a year later, set up the studio and have never looked back!

How would you describe your style?

I actively resist committing to a signature style. I have a repeatable way of working; I have a method, but I’m here to realise a vision with my clients. And they are not all the same as each other, and definitely not all the same as me. My designs draw upon the client’s lifestyle, personality and the property itself. For me, it’s definitely more about giving each space a considered and coherent scheme that will function on a daily basis for the individual.

Where do you find your inspiration?

Inspiration is everywhere, it could be a walk in nature, a visit to an art gallery, the set design in a film. I love to buy old interior books from second hand shops, it’s always a good reminder that trends don’t matter and that it’s all about the timelessness of a design. 

How did you find out about Francone Bespoke Taps originally? 

Back in 2018, I was looking for a cloakroom tap with a copper finish (which was no small task at the time!) and this is how I came across Francone Bespoke Taps. The choices of finishes blew my mind as well as the ability to bespoke tailor a tap or shower head exactly as needed. 

What do you like about Francone Bespoke Taps products?

The quality of the taps without a doubt. When plumbers comment on how good the quality and finish of the taps are, you know you’re onto a winner. Cheap taps are always a false economy. When we’re looking at how to maximise the budget on a project, there are some things that we don’t compromise on. I always recommend my clients to go for quality taps that will last. 

What advice would you give to those struggling to define their own interior style?

I would say don’t fret about it; it’s not about labelling yourself or putting yourself inside a category or a style. It’s definitely more about what objects or art you feel an emotional connection to; what colours relax or invigorate you. Sometimes, it’s best not to think about it too much and instead get there in a more organic way, like building a mood board and then take a step back and see what is the common thread or elements that keep recurring.  

What are you working on at the moment? Anything exciting in the works?

We just started work on a 90s triplex flat in Highgate with incredible views of London. I’m really excited about this project as I have a soft spot for this type of 90s architecture. 

We are also working on a couple of Victorian houses in Barnsbury, which is my favourite area in London, so that’s always a treat. 

We’re starting work on a modern townhouse in Canary Wharf in spring. I love the challenge of injecting personality and functionality into these blank and soulless spaces that have come from some property developers. 

Then, later in the year we will be starting on a Georgian maisonette in Clerkenwell with a former client and I’m really looking forward to the collaboration, as the client has impeccable taste. 

We are so fortunate to be so busy and working across so many different and various projects with the best clients.

Emilie Fournet Interiors offers bespoke services from colour consultations to full refurbishment projects. They offer a range of packages to match your ambition, scale and budget. If you would like to learn more, visit www.emiliefournetinteriors.com, check out @emiliefournetinteriors on Instagram.