Creative Conversations: Plum Guide meets Micaela Sharp

We catch up with designer, upholsterer and Interior Design Masters semi-finalist Micaela Sharp to hear about her recently launched furniture brand, why there's nothing better than a holiday in the south of Spain and more.

With interior design no two projects are ever the same, which I absolutely love because it challenges my creativity. It's great to explore new ways of reimagining spaces and new design influences and of course every client has differing needs and preferences. I am fond of layering patterns so I do try to encourage my clients to be brave in this area.

My home is an eclectic mix of eras as I cherish items with history. As an upholsterer I love to upcycle items so I have a lot of vintage chairs that have been reupholstered in various patterned fabrics from stripes to florals. Despite my love of upcycling, I prefer natural wood to painted, and one of my most treasured items is a bureau I inherited which is kept in its original state with lots of patina.

My favourite fabric of all time is Liberty 'Faria Flowers' – it’s so colourful and full of joy! My go-to brands for durable upholstery fabrics are Sanderson because of their extensive range which includes my favourite heritage brand Morris & Co, and Linwood because they have brilliant colours.

I would have to say my own furniture brand, Studio Janettie. Co-founded with textile designer, Charlotte Beevor and launched at Selfridges in May. Our collection strives to create the new heirloom pieces that will be cherished for generations and take pride of place in family memories.

Before I filmed Interior Design Masters I frantically redecorated as the crew came to film at my home for a day. I made a bench for my dining area and upholstered it in cream boucle with a fluted back. It’s now my favourite spot in the house and I wonder why I didn't make it sooner!

For me home is about memories. Gradually I have collected items that remind me of moments, people and places that are important to me. A piece of art bought from a local artist, a family heirloom, a piece of ceramics from a trip abroad. Cumulatively they spark a feeling of contentment and happiness when I'm at home because I’m surrounded by great memories.

My home away from home is the south of Spain as we used to holiday there every summer growing up. I absolutely love Spanish food and culture and feel my shoulders drop the second the plane lands. There's something about prawns pil pil on the beach that just feeds the soul!

Twins Daisy & Liv who curate A South London Makers Market are the epitome of style in my opinion. Their market is where I do most of my shopping at the moment as they curate the best independent makers of everything from fluffy mirrors to jewellery.

A great outdoor space with a big dining table, an outdoor fridge and loads of huge candles. There's nothing better than sitting outside late into the evening with your friends and enjoying a bottle of wine, or two.

You can find out more about Micaela by heading to her Instagram account or website.