Maximalist designer Roisin Quinn is a long-time client and the recent winner of hit TV home show, Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr.
Hosted by popular presenter Carr and former Elle Decoration magazine editor Michelle Ogundehin, the BBC programme pits 10 interior designers against each other for the chance to win a commercial contract and create their own line of furnishings.
Roisin poured her heart and soul into the project. ‘I had no professional interior design experience before the competition, so I did not expect to get to the final,’ she says. A worthy winner, Roisin’s aim, ‘to create joyful spaces that people feel comfortable in,’ captured the judges’ attention.
Having documented the renovation of her own home and her parents’ home on Instagram, you may have come across Roisin’s colourful, maximalist aesthetic. Previously, Roisin has chosen two custom Kimono Gold rugs, one of which was circular, which she described as ‘absolutely breathtaking’ in her social posts.
We are delighted to catch up with Roisin to find out how her love affair with interior design started, discuss her unique and very personal design process, and delve deeper into her passion for colour.
When did your love affair with interior design begin?
I've always had an eye for colour and traditional design, but I never quite knew how to channel my creativity. That all changed when I was given the opportunity to design my parents' house, Primrose Lodge, on the Isle of Man. It was then I realised interior design was so much more than a bit of paint, and I'm actually quite good at it!
Every time I walk into my parents' house now, I think, "How on earth did I do this?" With no interior design experience, I transformed an entire home. It has shown me that when you put your mind to something you're passionate about, you can create magic.
"I truly believe that colour can have a profound impact on how you feel."
What has been your most memorable project to date?
My parents' house - it’s the one that truly transformed my life. That house holds an incredibly special place in my heart. It’s where I grew up, surrounded by my amazing family, and where my parents worked tirelessly to provide us with a loving home. Being able to turn their home into a sanctuary filled with love, joy, and magic has been the most rewarding experience. Without Primrose Lodge, there wouldn’t be a Roisin Quinn, winner of BBC’s Interior Design Masters. I’d still be working as a travel agent if it weren’t for my incredible parents, who trusted me to make their house a home.
How would you describe your interior style?
Traditional with a twist - I'm a refined maximalist who embraces colour and texture in a way that feels both cohesive and calming. I don't use design software; everything stays in my head. I believe there is something deeply personal and intuitive about this process. I don't usually transfer my ideas to mood boards or digital tools - I trust my instincts and rely on my creative vision. For me, relying on software can detract from the beauty and creativity of design. I want to keep my brain actively engaged and inspired. By not relying on technology, I maintain a direct connection to my creative process. This approach ensures that every design is a true reflection of my personal touch and unique vision. It's about preserving the authenticity and magic of the creative journey, allowing the design to evolve naturally from my initial feeling to the final realisation.
You are clearly influenced by colour and pattern – is your own home full of both?
It's safe to say that both my home in the UK and Primrose Lodge are vibrant! Everyone who steps inside is captivated by the spaces - their eyes light up as they take it all in. There's a sense of cohesion and calmness that makes both houses flow seamlessly. Despite being a new build, my parents' home has a warmth and lived-in feel that immediately makes visitors feel at home - exactly the atmosphere I wanted to create.
When you start a new interior design project, what do you consider first?
For me, it starts with a feeling. When I walk into a space, I envision the atmosphere I want to create. I take in the structure, ceiling height, walls and natural light. From there, the colour palette begins to form in my mind.
How did you come across Wendy Morrison Design?
I discovered Wendy Morrison after extensive research and, once I did, I was completely hooked. Every piece from this incredible brand is brimming with life, excitement and intrigue. There is a perfect blend of sophistication, playfulness and magic in her designs, and I fell in love with everything. In an ideal world, my entire house would be adorned with Wendy Morrison creations - it would feel like stepping into an enchanted fairytale.
You have used Kimono Gold in two very different locations – what drew you to this design and why do you think she works so well in both spaces?
I chose two custom Kimono Gold rugs for Primrose Lodge and they complement each space beautifully; one is in the living room and the other in the master en-suite. It was an easy decision -this rug was the perfect fit for these areas. The rug features elements and colours already present in the rooms; it's not overpowering, yet it's a subtle showstopper. It blends seamlessly with the design, offering just the right amount of maximalism without being too bold or too understated. I'm absolutely obsessed with Wendy Morrison rugs - I honestly don't think you can find anything better.
Do you think colour influences the way we feel?
I truly believe that colour can have a profound impact on how you feel. When we first bought our house, I painted every wall grey, but I quickly noticed that each time I entered a room I felt deflated and miserable. Finally, I repainted the living room pink and I’ve never looked back. The transformation was incredible. Colour is so powerful - it can completely change your mood depending on how you use it; it's pure magic!
Do you have a favourite colour combination that always makes you feel good?
I often find myself drawn to different colour combinations, and I love experimenting to see what I can create. Right now, I'm captivated by the blend of dusky pink and burgundy - it's a mix that's both playful and sophisticated.
Where do you find inspiration?
Inspiration comes from the world around me, whether it's the intricate details of architectural buildings, the ever-changing hues of nature, or the creativity in fashion. Inspiration can strike from anything that sparks my imagination. Rather than chasing trends, I prefer to let the design process unfold organically, guided by instinct and emotion. When a design is born from this authentic approach, it has a certain timelessness that can’t be replicated. It’s about creating something that resonates deeply, standing the test of time because it’s rooted in genuine inspiration rather than fleeting fads.
You will find everything you need to know about ordering a Custom Rug here. Plus we're offering 20% off all custom rugs until 30th September 2024.
You can follow Roisin on Instagram @roisinquinn; you can catch Roisin in Series 5 of Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr on BBC iPlayer.
All images by Clive Shalice
