All things bold, bright and beautiful perfectly sum up designer, author and presenter Siobhan Hannah Murphy. If you are a lover of colour, it’s likely you’ve come across Siobhan on Instagram; her refreshing @interiorcurve feed is full of fun, and highlights her passion for fashion, interiors and life.
Hailing from Yorkshire, Siobhan has a playful, joyous design style, which helps her turn dull rooms into the kind of fabulous, decadent spaces we adore. Her best-selling book, More is More Décor, is packed with colourful interiors inspiration. And in 2021, Siobhan was a finalist on the brilliant home renovation show Interiors Design Masters.
We were lucky enough to have Siobhan as a panellist on Wendy’s recent Access All Areas talk, which was part of Focus/24. Siobhan had so much to share, we caught up with her after the panel discussion to get her thoughts on colour and creativity, and ask how she has styled her two Wendy Morrison rugs - Leopard Palms Light and Eternity Light - in her own home.
How did you first discover Wendy’s designs?
I spotted one of Wendy’s rugs in a magazine and it was love at first sight. Her designs have this magical ability to mix boldness with elegance, and I was instantly drawn to the way she uses colour, pattern and storytelling. Her work really speaks to the maximalist in me and I couldn’t resist exploring more. There was a gap in the market for beautiful rugs and Wendy has brought some magic to floors.
You have such a fun style at home and with fashion. Who and what inspires your style, and how would you describe it?
I’m all about joy, glamour and a bit of cheekiness! I’m inspired by the flamboyance of the 1970s and ’80s, with a dash of old-school Hollywood glamour. People like Iris Apfel, Jonathan Adler and even the colourful sets of old Technicolor films inspire me.
I’d describe my style as ‘maximalist with a twist’. I’m not afraid of colour or pattern and I think the key is to surround yourself with things that make you smile.
Tell us about your background in fashion and move into interiors.
My love of fashion has always been intertwined with interiors - it’s all about self-expression, isn’t it? I’m a big believer that your surroundings should feel as fabulous as you do! When I made the move from fashion to interiors, it was a natural evolution in my love for playful, maximalist aesthetics.
Do you have a favourite colour from the recent Wendy Morrison Design x Terry de Havilland boots collection?
Now, about those boots… Talisman in green are my absolute favourites. The embroidery is so decadent. The boots are glam and fun, a statement piece that speaks to my love of a bit of retro and a bit of wild. I’d style them with a fabulous kaftan or metallic jumpsuit, and they’re be equally at home propped up in bold interiors. Too nice to be hidden in a wardrobe, I display mine in my dressing room when I’m not wearing them.
What is your advice on starting a decor scheme?
Start with a colour or pattern you love. It could be something as small as a cushion or a piece of art. From there, build the room step by step. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns or styles - trust your gut and fill your home with pieces that make you happy. And always remember that bold is beautiful!
What was it like to take part in Interior Design Masters in 2021 and what was the impact on your career?
It was such a whirlwind! Competing on Interior Design Masters really pushed me to think outside the box and embrace my style with even more confidence. The experience was invaluable - not just in terms of skills, but also in finding my creative voice. Since then, it’s been a wild ride with so many exciting projects. It really helped cement my brand and philosophy of ‘more is more’.
Can you tell us how you styled your Wendy Morrison rugs? And which of Wendy’s designs is now top of your wish list?
Those rugs are just divine! Leopard Palms Light is in my Beverly Hills-style bedroom and adds a perfect touch of luxe, tropical, glam as soon as you walk through the door. As for my wish list, Vogue Deco is most definitely calling my name! The intricate detailing, and the pink and green colour combo is dreamy.
I placed Eternity Light rug on my upstairs landing, paired with lilacs and chartreuse colourways, velvet upholstery and lots of gold accents. The way the light hits that rug makes the room sparkle.
As for my wish list, Vogue Deco is most definitely calling my name! The intricate detailing, and the pink and green colour combo is dreamy.
What is your top interiors tip?
Don’t be afraid of scale. Go big with artwork, oversized lamps, huge rugs and dramatic drapery. It creates an impactful, immersive space that feels alive. Add something playful – it could be a quirky cushion or an unusual lamp – which stops the space feeling too serious. Layer things up to keep it interesting.
What are you currently working on?
I’ve got a few fabulous projects in the works, including a super-fun collaboration with a boutique hotel in Ibiza, where I’m really leaning into that joyful, Instagrammable, vibe I love so much. Think neon lights, bold patterns, and a serious amount of glam. I’ve also got a swimwear collection due out next year, which I’m very excited about. It will be gorgeous and fully size inclusive, which I’m passionate about. It’s great that I get to design both fashion and interiors now - life is wonderful!
