Last Autumn, we welcomed two new team members to Bernard Interiors.

Connor joined us as an architectural technologist with almost a decade of experience, while Will joined us fresh from his university studies in Interior Architecture. 

Below, we caught up with them both to find out more about their year with Bernard Interiors and reflect upon their incredible growth.

Connor Newton 

Tell us a little bit about you and your job

I’m an architectural technologist and have been working in the industry for almost 10 years, having started at an architectural practice straight out of school at age 17. I’ve been interested in design and the small details from an early age, so I always knew that this was the route I wanted to take. 

At Bernard Interiors, I’m responsible for ensuring that all of the details of any construction project are accurate, which means I work on architectural detailing, planning, and the coordination of technical drawing packages for tender information, ensuring design intent is maintained throughout. 

Which projects stand out as highlights and why?

There’s a real mix of projects that stand out for me which is, of course, a very good sign. In particular, though, I’ve loved working on retirement village projects with Retirement Villages Group (RVG).

Later living interior design is niche but interesting in terms of spatial planning and the level of detail that goes into every design decision. I enjoy the fact that the design process incorporates diversity, accessibility, and elegance. Importantly, along with the functional side of some of the specially adapted furnishings, our work ensures that these villages are social, luxurious spaces that foster style and comfort simultaneously.

What is the best part about working at Bernard Interiors? 

I’d have to say the team. Coming from an architectural background, I’ve always thought that my line of work could at times be isolating. However, the open communication streams and flat structure at Bernard Interiors have made the design process much more streamlined and collaborative, and the culture here is brilliant. 

What is the most helpful thing you have learned over the past year?

I think I’ve really improved my management and communication skills, harnessing the strengths of other team members to ensure projects are delivered on time. Planning ahead has been a big part of the last year and it’s enabled me to work far more efficiently.

What is a challenge you have faced over the past year, and how did you overcome it?

Sometimes capturing all of the small details required from a client at the early design stages can be difficult, as we require every morsel of information we can get to ensure we exceed their expectations. 

I’ve managed to become more confident in facilitating client aspirations by establishing collaborative, open, and honest communication about exactly what is required from the start. I’ve learned over the past year that it really is the best course of action when looking to deliver excellent results. 

Will Grieve

Tell us a little bit about you and your job

I’m an Interior Architecture Designer originally from Nottinghamshire, but I moved up to Newcastle to complete my three-year degree in Interior Architecture at Northumbria University.

I can’t quite believe the sheer volume I’ve learned since joining the team at Bernard Interiors a little over a year ago. I began full-time work straight out of university and it’s been an incredible experience to work directly in a field I’m so passionate about. 

I work on a range of commercial and residential projects and support the lead designer with tasks that range from specifying furniture, fixings, and equipment (FF&E), to spatial planning to technical drawing packages. 

Which projects stand out as highlights and why?

I’m currently working on a high-end care home based in Skipton, which features both new a build and the adaptive reuse of an old mill.  

For the interiors of this project, we really wanted to thread in references to the area’s past through its design, to truly reflect the history of the building and the community in which it is situated. The material palette is very subtle, using pastel and blue tones, natural woods, and wools which pay homage to the local area and the Leeds and Liverpool Canal that runs through Skipton. 

On this project, I was given the opportunity to work within the existing shell of the old mill on the site. We designed a Canalside café for the residents which sits directly on the canal. 

The design references the industrial past of the site with exposed original brickwork, maroon glazed tiles, and the opening up of the original window used to transport goods in years gone by. 

In design, it’s so important to learn all about the history of the local area, dig deep into archives, and pull together a range of themes to map out the design. I’m really passionate about adaptive reuse and preservation of old buildings and it feels good to know we’re keeping its heritage alive while making it work for 21st-century use. 

What is the best part about working at Bernard Interiors? 

The team is really friendly and nothing is ever too much trouble. Everyone is incredibly supportive of each other and we can always have a laugh together. 

I think what makes working within our team all the more special is the shared feelings of pride when a project is completed. Recently, I worked on a residential project which involved designing a bedroom for a teenager. When he saw his new room, he couldn’t stop smiling! 

The outcomes of the work we do at Bernard Interiors are always mind-blowing, so it’s great to see the quality of the spaces we create and enjoy that feeling of satisfaction as a collective. 

What is the most helpful thing you have learned over the past year?

I’ve learned that things take a lot longer than you might initially think. A project is fluid, it can change many times before a final design is built, which is why I’ve learned to never take anything for granted. 

Having said that, that’s what makes working within a creative industry so exciting. Seeing a project and imagining everything it could be is magical, and being able to make it come to life is even better.

What is a challenge you have faced over the past year, and how did you overcome it?

It’s been a big leap adapting from university life to working full time, but the amount I’ve learned on the job even in a year is crazy. I’ve loved every second, and working within such a supportive environment has made the transition even more enjoyable. 

I’d definitely encourage anyone looking to get into the world of Interior Design and Architecture to get some work experience under their belt. University education just doesn’t compare to getting involved in real life – sometimes, getting thrown in at the deep end is the only way you’ll learn to swim!