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If These Walls Could Talk by The Business of Interiors

If These Walls Could Talk by The Business of Interiors

By: RACHEL USHER
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About this listen

Welcome to the ‘If These Walls Could Talk’ podcast by Rachel Usher. I am an accomplished Interior Designer and solopreneur, having built my design practice from nothing into an an award winning and published studio.


During my journey I found the business side of interiors to be secretive and largely conducted from behind the curtain, leaving business owners like myself grappling with the unique complexities of running a design business, having to learn many things through trial and error.


Well here’s the thing, it doesn’t have to be that way!


This show is designed for design professionals. Together, with our guests we demystify the business of Interiors. This is the place where we hear from the personal experiences of some incredible people that work within the design industry, from entrepreneurs to business experts. Together we unravel some of those truth tales about what it really means, to not only survive, but to thrive in the creative world of business.


This podcast is sponsored by Rachel Usher Interior Design.


https://www.thebusinessofinteriors.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

RACHEL USHER Economics
Episodes
  • Episode 33: Discover the transformative power of narrative-led design with Sameena Singh

    Episode 33: Discover the transformative power of narrative-led design with Sameena Singh
    Apr 28 2026

    Discover the transformative power of narrative-led design with interior designer Sameena Singh.In this episode, Sameena Singh takes us on a journey through her innovative approach to interior design, where storytelling becomes the cornerstone of creating personalised residential spaces. With over 15 years of global experience in luxury hospitality and high-end residential design, Sameena brings a refined eye and holistic vision to every project. Her work spans continents and iconic names, from the timeless grandeur of the Ritz-Carlton to the quiet opulence of Four Seasons, Fairmont, and Jumeirah where she has orchestrated every phase of the design narrative, from first sketch to final flourish.


    Before founding LITTLEMORE, Sameena held formative roles at visionary studios like Aedas and Wimberly Interiors (WATG), during which her immersive, story-led designs evolved into her personal dialect of spatial storytelling. From her beginnings in top hospitality firms to establishing her own boutique studio, Sameena shares how her unique philosophy has reshaped her projects and client relationships. Sameena delves into the art of understanding clients on a deeper level, crafting spaces that reflect their personal stories and aspirations.


    She explains how her narrative-led design philosophy not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also fosters emotional connections, making each project a true reflection of the client's identity. Listeners will gain insights into how Sameena navigates the challenges of the design industry, leveraging her experience to build credibility and secure high-value projects. She discusses the importance of a strong brand identity and how her bespoke approach differentiates her in a competitive market.Join us as Sameena reveals her strategies for defining client essence through visioning and interactive tools, and how she balances creativity with practical fee strategies. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of storytelling and design, and how it can transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences.


    Connect with Sameena Singh:

    Website: https://littlemoredesign.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlemore_design/


    Connect with the host:

    Website: https://www.thebusinessofinteriors.co.uk/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofinteriors/

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • Episode 32: Passport to Design: Unlocking Global Suppliers & U.S. Opportunities with Tammy Covington of High Point Market

    Episode 32: Passport to Design: Unlocking Global Suppliers & U.S. Opportunities with Tammy Covington of High Point Market
    Apr 17 2026
    For interior designers looking to expand beyond familiar borders, this episode is a deep dive into why global exposure isn’t just valuable, it’s essential. We explore how engaging with international suppliers, markets, and perspectives can elevate your design work, strengthen your sourcing network, and open doors to entirely new opportunities. At the centre of this conversation is High Point Market Authority and its flagship event, High Point Market—widely regarded as the world’s largest home furnishings trade show.Joining us is Tammy Covington, President and CEO of the High Point Market Authority. Tammy leads the strategic direction, operations, and global positioning of this extraordinary event, overseeing everything from business development and marketing to the seamless experience of nearly 75,000 visitors who attend each spring and autumn. Having been part of High Point since its inception in 2001, she has played a pivotal role in shaping it into the $6.7 billion economic powerhouse it is today.Since stepping into the CEO role in 2023, Tammy has continued to refine and elevate the visitor experience, building on her earlier work as COO, where she led major improvements across transportation, security, and guest services. Her leadership, combined with a deep commitment to the design community, has earned her industry-wide recognition, including being named to Furniture Today’s Women of Influence list and receiving IHFRA’s Pillar of the Industry award.Why High Point Matters for UK DesignersOften described as a “Disney World for design professionals,” High Point Market is unlike any European trade show. Spanning 11 million square feet of showroom space across 13 city blocks in North Carolina, it offers an unmatched breadth of product, from heritage craftsmanship to cutting-edge contemporary design.In this episode, Tammy shares how UK-based designers can leverage High Point to:Discover new suppliers and product categories not readily available in EuropeBuild meaningful relationships with U.S. manufacturers and global brandsStay ahead of international trends and bring fresh perspectives back to their projectsNavigate the complexities of importing, tariffs, and logistics with greater confidenceWhat You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWe explore both the inspiration and the practicalities of attending High Point Market, including:How High Point Market compares to European shows like Maison & Objet or Salone del MobileThe unique, city-wide showroom layout and how it enhances discoveryWhy flexibility in your schedule is key to uncovering unexpected findsThe role of educational programming, networking, and community in shaping your design businessHow services like TravelQuest and the International Buyer Center support overseas visitorsEssential insights into shipping, import regulations, and working with U.S. suppliersWhen to attend, how long to stay, and how to plan your trip effectivelyNote: High Point markets are scheduled for April 25-29 and October 17-21. Planning ahead ensures you make the most of this international design opportunity.We are also delighted to say that High point Market Authority are patron sponsors of our 2026 The Business Of Interiors Community Summit. You can learn more and book your tickets here.Resources & Links:High Point Market Official WebsiteHigh Point International Buyer CenterUK Department of International TradeThe Business Of InteriorsConnect with Tammy and High Point Market:Instagram: @highpointmarketYouTube: @highpointmarketFacebook: High Point Market Connect with The Business of Interiors:Instagram: @thebusinessofinteriorsYouTube: @rachelusherinteriordesigner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    51 mins
  • Episode 31: Brian Woulfe-Letters From Your Future Self

    Episode 31: Brian Woulfe-Letters From Your Future Self
    Feb 24 2026

    Explore how Brian Woulfe transitioned from his rural upbringing in Ireland to establishing a successful interior design studio in London. In this episode, Brian shares his unique career path, business insights, and perspectives on industry collaboration and legacy building.


    Key Topics

    • Brian’s diverse background: from musician and rural upbringing to interior designer
    • The opportunity that led Brian into design without formal training
    • Building a design business during the 2008 recession
    • Navigating international projects: from Phuket to London
    • The importance of transparent client communication and setting expectations
    • Fixed fee models versus traditional markup structures
    • How to assess project fit with the "Six Fs" framework
    • Cultivating industry community and collaboration outside traditional silos
    • Transitioning to business maturity: team growth, studio relocation, and future vision
    • Leadership lessons: delegation, trust, and avoiding burnout
    • The significance of mentorship and strategic planning for longevity


    Connect with Brian:

    Website: https://www.designedbywoulfe.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianwoulfe/


    Connect with Rachel:

    Website:https://www.thebusinessofinteriors.co.uk/

    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofinteriors/


    Links from our discussion:


    Discover Karl Heasman: https://www.greycottconsultancy.com/contact

    Discover Rick Campos:https://designbizsurvivalguide.com/

    Discover LuAnn Nigara: https://luannnigara.com/


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    55 mins
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