Emma Pocock on Exceptional Interior Design
“Exceptional design isn’t just about looking good; it’s about creating spaces you really want to live in."
Designing homes that are as practical as they are beautiful is at the heart of the ethos of Turner Pocock, founded in 2007 by Emma Pocock and Bunny Turner. The Turner Pocock studio’s portfolio is as diverse as it is stylish, ranging from chic townhouses and country estates to a sophisticated city pied-à-terre and cosy Alpine chalets. Here, Emma shares her thoughts on how fashion influences her designs, the magic of mixing styles, and why lighting is the unsung hero of interior design.
How would you describe the Turner Pocock design philosophy?
We focus heavily on practicality. Ensuring that a home functions seamlessly as a living space is our top priority. Only then do we dive into the fun stuff like colour and pattern. Bunny and I enjoy creating spaces that are comfortable and inviting rather than overly formal or stiff. Think of it as designing for life rather than just for show. We are all about cosy, lived-in elegance with a splash of flair.
Can you recall the first time design truly wowed you?
Back when I was at fashion school, Alexander McQueen and John Galliano were making waves, and their work was nothing short of mesmerising. But a standout moment for me was a trip to Florence with my mum. We stumbled upon a pop-up show where Italian designers like Versace and Prada had displayed stunning red dresses in churches and museums. It was like a design dreamscape! That love for the dramatic and the oversized translates into my interiors, whether it's a gigantic piece of art or an eye-catching lamp, I relish adding elements that catch your eye.
How important is lighting to your design process?
Lighting is pivotal. We're firm believers in the power of lamps. When we're laying out a floor plan, we're also plotting where the wall lights and lamps will go. Imagine a home where the only lighting is overhead, it feels so clinical and uninspired. Proper low-level lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes you want to stay and linger. A well-placed lamp can make a room feel like a cosy haven, while stark overhead lights can drain the charm right out of a space.
Why do you continue to incorporate Vaughan lights into your designs?
We view lighting as a form of art. Vaughan's pieces often resemble sculptural works, and that's why we're drawn to them. They add character and elegance to our designs. Take the Aswan lamp, for instance, it's a showstopper that we love to feature in key spots, like a grand corner table. And the Grasse lamp with its bronze finish? It's a beautiful contrast that adds depth to a room, providing a bit of unexpected juxtaposition. Just like how our mothers mixed inherited pieces to create a story in their homes, we blend different styles and elements to create spaces that are uniquely ours. Vaughan's lighting helps us achieve that perfect balance between elegance and individuality.
What is the greatest design lesson you have learned?
The biggest lesson: function always trumps form. It's tempting to get caught up in the aesthetics, but if a space doesn't work well for its inhabitants, it's just a pretty picture. We often encounter clients who envision a grand dining room but only host formal dinners a few times a year. Instead, we might suggest transforming that space into a library or a cosy reading nook. It's all about designing spaces that align with how people truly live and use their homes. After all, a beautiful space is only as good as its functionality.
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