At the beginning of January – just as we went into lockdown number 3 – we welcomed Celine Santiago to the team. Celine graduated from Kingston University in 2019 with a degree in Interior Design. Since graduating, she has worked within the Regeneration Team of Sunderland City Council and freelance for a company in London. We asked Celine to share a little more about how she’s settling in and adapting to working from home.
What were you doing before joining Bernard Interiors?
I was working freelance for a company based in London on various commercial and hospitality projects. Alongside this I also undertook a course in lighting design with UAL to further enhance my interior design knowledge. Prior to this I was working with Sunderland City Council on various regeneration schemes, providing interior design advice, concepts and technical drawings.
Has it been strange starting a new role just as lockdown number 3 started?
I had just completed my first day when lockdown 3 was announced! I had one day in the studio and then went straight to working from home. It’s been an unusual start but everyone has made me feel very welcome.
What are you working on at the moment?
I am currently working on the concept designs for a new build care home project. This involves compiling a presentation pack which will include colour palettes, moodboards and rendered floorplans and elevations to show suggested layouts. I’ll also be assisting with creating sample boards for the project which will be exciting!
What part of your role have you enjoyed most since starting at Bernard Interiors?
It’s been great getting stuck in from the very beginning of the project which involves researching the background of the site and coming up with a concept to complement it. This is one of my favourite aspects of the role – I really enjoy the early stages of the design process.
What are you looking forward to when things return to normal?
I think I speak for quite a few people when I say the opportunity to be able to travel – even just around the UK!
Do you have any working from home tips?
Working at home does come with its comforts but it’s really important to keep moving so I make sure I get outside for a walk at some point during the day – it’s good to get some fresh air.
Where do you get your design inspiration from?
Inspiration comes from everywhere for me, but I’m currently loving the maximalist trend – especially now when colour and pattern is very much needed to uplift the mood!
