Creating a Homely Interior: An Interview with Natalie Simone, Chester Interior Designer

Q: Natalie, what does it mean for a home to feel “homely”?

Natalie: For me, a homely interior is a space that feels immediately welcoming, comfortable and truly personal. It’s about creating an environment that reflects the people who live there. I like to think of it as a space that feels effortless, where every corner tells a little story and encourages you as a visitor to relax and be yourself.

Q: What are the key elements you focus on when creating that sense of homeliness?

Natalie: There are a few things I always keep in mind. Firstly, comfort is essential! Everything needs to invite you to linger, it's not just about a comfy sofa (but of course that's key!) it's having a place to put your cup of tea down, it's the right spacing between pieces of furniture where you're not squeezing through or feel like you're rattling round a museum.

Lighting is another often overlooked element soft, warm lighting can completely change the feel of a room. You are not going to physically be able to relax in a stark cold light - our bodies just aren't programmed that way.

And, of course, personal touches are the icing on the cake: artwork, photographs and other meaningful objects make a home unique, lived-in and tell a story.

Q: How do you bring your clients’ personalities into the design?

Natalie: I spend a lot of time really getting to know my clients. Their daily rhythms, routines, likes and lifestyle. I let that guide the design. Sometimes it’s small choices, like knowing to avoid a certain texture on a cushion. Other times, it’s bigger decisions, like reconfiguring the whole downstairs layout to reflect how a family actually will use the space. The goal is always to make a space feel like an extension of the people who live there and use the space every day.

Q: What role does an interior designer play in creating a homely space?

Natalie: I think the general public thinks of interior designers as just faffy people who like nice bedding! Don't get me wrong, we do! However a good designer does so much more than just select accessories and paint colours.

A good designer will reimagine the potential of a space, rethink layouts and ensure every element works together harmoniously to make your daily life run smoothly and comfortably from brushing your teeth in the morning to switching off your bedside light at night.

Q: Do you have any tips for homeowners trying to create a cosy, inviting home themselves?

Natalie: Absolutely! Start by thinking about what makes you feel comfortable. What things bring you joy when you see them? It could be a certain artists work, a passion for 60's retro furniture...what ever lights you up - start there and let the rest follow naturally. Don't be afraid to add personal touches, layer different textures and don’t underestimate the power of lighting - check that bulb!

Start small with cosy corners: a window seat, a reading nook, or even a well-styled coffee table, they can make a big difference and give you the confidence to move on to a bigger project. Just remember, a homely interior is a reflection of your life, not a showroom, the goal is to create a space that feels lived-in, welcoming, and unmistakably yours.