Q&A with... Andrea Melo Hopkinson
We chat to Andrea Melo Hopkinson, Founder of Windle Decor Home Staging and Interior Design
How would you describe yourself?
I’m an interior designer, founder and mum to Bruna & Bianca, two adorable cats. I love travelling and good food with my perfect companion - my husband.
Tell us a bit more about you...
Born in Brazil, I changed my career to become an interior designer in 2019 after completing my qualifications at BAID. I was born into a family of home enthusiasts who were great influences on my personality; all my aunties are home lovers and one of them is an interior designer.
I moved to England 15 years ago and worked for a few companies but always felt unfulfilled. Then a few years later following my passion for home decor, I decided to become a professional, then got my qualification and set up my own business.
What are the latest trends in interior design?
I see mainly behavioural changes, one of them being people seeking a timeless design that will stand the test of time. Trends and quick home fashion are seen with caution not only from the environmental point of view but also for cost saving.
Also, I see a change towards eclectic design, the matchy-matchy isn’t as appealing as it used to be, and people are rather interested in the stunning results of style combinations which can make the space look quite unique.
On the other hand, speaking on trends - interior design is an evolving industry and for 2023 I see along with classical clean lines designs a lot of organic shapes, for example, curvy sofas and chairs; accessories made of natural materials such as clay and rustic stones; green! Everyone wants green in some way (me included) - having plants, green on the walls or on furniture. In terms of metals, the favouritism for brass continues strong and keeps going with finishes in bright gold, brushed or antique.
What have been some of your best experiences at work?
I’d have to say the last two projects I completed because I worked with two amazing ladies that had exceptional taste and I learned a lot from them. The project in Rainford was so exciting as it had a lot of Victorian and mid-century antiques mixed with contemporary Italian furniture that needed to connect. It took me some time sourcing and experimenting on mood boards, but the result was exceptional.
The second project was to bring life and colour to a beautiful home of a busy young family, all members had different tastes and ideas, and the client wished for a cohesive look and warm feel of a family home. Great clients make great projects - my client was open-minded accepting changes and gentle introduction to colours which allowed me to achieve the vision of her dream home.
How do you achieve great looks in your design?
I put a lot of effort into my designs but it’s very much a conjunction of factors; good taste, quality products, working with reputable suppliers, extensive sourcing, and finding creative solutions for problems.
Traditional vs contemporary style?
I absolutely love the quintessentially English style with a modern twist and also love the Scandinavian style but adding warm neutral colours and not so minimalist.
P.S
Last book you read?
Blindness by Jose Saramago.
Dream buy?
An idyllic holiday home in the south of France.
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