Mary Mansfield - Interior Designer

Today we meet Cambridge Creative Network member Mary Mansfield...

When did you set up your interior design business?

I set up my interior design business in April 2007.

Have you always enjoyed interior design?

Yes, as long as I can remember, but I have no precise date for it. I do recall constantly changing my bedroom round when at home with mum to try and enhance it's look and make best use of available space. I also shared a room with my sister back then so always had to take her views into account - the only colour scheme we ever used back then was pink!

Pleased to say, I now have a much more diverse taste - I have since undertaken three design courses!

What is your favourite style?

I describe my favourite style as Country Classics with a Scandinavian and French chic twist!! I also like my shabby chic.

Who are your favourite designers?

Although, I take his style with a pinch of salt sometimes, I do love Laurence Llewellyn Bowen, plus the way he talks, dresses and that wodge of hair! I do also like the work and tastes of Nina Campbell and some of the modern creativity of Kelly Hoppen.

Can you recommend some stores/makers in the East where we can source some original designs?

This is one area I am working on improving, as to-date I've mainly used sources from different parts of the globe to achieve designs. Having said that, some original designs have been made by tradesmen in order to give that truly one-off bespoke design. I'm pleased to report that a number of local exhibitors will be coming to the show to show off their original work in art, furniture etc, so you'll get to meet them personally. I am also using this opportunity to collate and grow my Eastern portfolio even further and to work more closely with local designers in greater fields.

What made you want to organise the Design and Lifestyle show coming up in May?

In 2009, I put on a Colour Workshop at the Hub in Cambourne. Although the numbers were much smaller, it went quite well and inspired me to do a further show on a somewhat larger scale. The Design and Lifestyle show was initially going to be 'Colour Workshop 2', but it felt a little dated to me and after a little more thought, this new title came to mind! This show is also giving me a chance to work with other local businesses and for them to share their design ideas; a number of them have helped me tremendously behind the scenes to organise this show too!

What can we expect to see at the Design and Lifestyle show?

Ooh, lots of exciting things. On arrival, visitors will be warmly greeted before being allowed to browse the various exhibitor stands. They will then be treated to a 20 min talk on 'designer secrets' etc, before being entertained to the LIVE show itself with commentary and music, where they will witness two bedroom room sets being created from scratch. There will also be a free prize draw, Q & A session and of course, a bar will be available throughout the evening, plus guests will walk away with some free goodies - should be a great night! One lucky guest will also win a free room makeover!

The focal point of the evening will be the hand carved French inspired bed with hand laid silver leaf finish............. Unfortunately, I'm not at liberty to reveal this romantic image as yet, but we will be rolling out a video very shortly.

Find out more over at Mary's website

http://www.cambridgeinteriordesigns.com

and buy tickets to the show here

http://wwwcambridgeinteriordesigns.eventbrite.co.uk/

Where: Bourn Golf and Leisure Club
When: Friday 18th May 2012 from: 7 – 10pm