Emma Mckelvie
My passion has always been to create beautiful and meaningful spaces. To make a difference to people by forging exceptional environments in which for them to live. I am intrigued by colour, texture and pattern, and I take constant inspiration from things around me in my day-to-day life and on my travels.
This desire to create gorgeous spaces began at a young age. I remember re-arranging my small bedroom on almost a weekly basis, experimenting with colour and fabrics and the layout in the very limited space!
Despite this clear passion for design, I began my career as a journalist, but I soon realised that my heart and soul was in creating stunning interiors.
So I went back to college, Art school this time, and studied Spatial Design.
Once qualified and keen to see the world, I moved to Hong Kong to work for Home Journal magazine, Hong Kong’s top interiors glossy. After a few years I became Managing Editor. Exploring beautiful Asian homes with our photographer, and styling products in our in-house studio was the best job ever and a great insight into the far eastern culture.
I returned to London, where I regularly freelanced for magazines including British Elle Decoration and The Mail on Sunday’s You magazine, before taking a new path in my career, in the world of television.
I began work on the ‘original’ Changing Rooms programme (gosh that makes me feel old!), and then after a series or two, I moved to other design and property shows including House Doctor, Selling Houses, Selling Houses Abroad, Designs For Living and Grand Designs. I worked predominantly behind the scenes, heading up the design crews, and designing, sourcing, buying, organising and budgeting.
After 10 years in the fast-paced world of TV, I went out on my own and I have been creating interiors for clients both here and abroad, ever since. My work has been featured in many magazines, such as Living Etc, House Beautiful and 25 Beautiful Homes.
I have recently co-produced and authored a stunning design book ‘The Versatile Home’. It’s unique approach is that it is written through the eyes of myself, the designer and my favourite client. As well as featuring many of my projects, along with other beautiful homes, it provides advice and tips which arms the reader with the confidence and knowhow to tackle their own design projects.
My ethos has always been that interior design should be accessible to everyone, which is why I have created packages for all types of projects and budgets. I feel very fortunate that I found and pursued my passion in life and I am always ready to share my knowledge and expertise, to help you achieve a design that totally reflects your lifestyle and you.
1995 – 1999
2000 – 2002
2002 – 2012
2012 – Today
2020 – 2021
Managing Editor of Home Journal Magazine in Hong Kong
Stylist for British Elle Decoration and Mail On Sunday You magazine
Designer and Art Director on several TV interior shows including Grand Designs
Interior Designer undertaking a variety of commissions both here and overseas
Produced and co-authored ‘The Versatile Home’ design book, due for release November 2021
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