Interview with Katie Malik, Founder of Katie Malik Design Studio

"Passion fuels creativity, but business knowledge ensures longevity"

Katie Malik is an award-winning Interior Designer and Founder of Katie Malik Design Studio, an interior design practice recognised internationally for its distinctive approach to luxury residential projects. She is known for her signature philosophy, “House Whispering”, and likes to create deeply personal, functional, and emotionally resonant spaces that elevate the way people live.

Here Katie shares with us the success of her career pivot from linguistics to becoming a triumphant business owner.

Award-winning Interior Designer Katie Malik

Q1. You began your career studying linguistics at Cambridge before moving into interior design. What gave you the confidence to make such a bold career change?

My transition from linguistics to interior design was driven by a lifelong passion for design, deeply rooted in my upbringing. My father was a furniture designer and maker, so I was immersed in craftsmanship from a young age. While I pursued linguistics at Cambridge, the calling to create and transform spaces never faded. The confidence to change paths came from this innate passion.

That said, I knew passion wasn’t enough—I needed a solid foundation. I retrained at the Chelsea College of Art and the National Design Academy, then gained hands-on experience in high-end London studios such as 1508London. That combination of education and real-world practice gave me the confidence to launch my own studio and pursue my true calling.

Q2. What were the biggest challenges you faced when launching Katie Malik Design Studio in 2014, and how did you overcome them?

The biggest hurdle was realising that being a successful interior designer required more than creative talent—it required business acumen. I had to quickly learn how to manage finances, market my services, and oversee procurement and project management.

I overcame these challenges by adopting a mindset of continuous learning and building structured processes from day one. Mentorship from organisations like American Express and Big Business Events was invaluable. Over time, I developed standardised systems for client onboarding, project management, and financial tracking—foundations that took years to refine but remain essential today.

Q3. How have you grown your studio from its early days into a multi-award-winning practice?

Growth has been anchored on three pillars: exceptional design, outstanding client experience, and brand building. From the outset, my goal was to create spaces that were not just beautiful but deeply personal and functional. My “House Whispering” approach—focusing on the emotional connection between people and their homes—became a differentiator.

This philosophy, alongside our focus on client experience, has led to repeat business and referrals. On the brand side, strategic marketing and consistent visibility through platforms like Architectural Digest and House & Garden have helped establish us as a trusted name in luxury interior design.

Q4. What key decisions or turning points have shaped your business trajectory the most?

Four stand out:

1. Retraining formally in interior design.

2. Gaining experience in high-end London studios.

3. Developing my “House Whispering” philosophy, which became central to our brand.

4. Launching Interior Design Deconstructed in 2024, allowing me to share knowledge with other designers and give back to the industry.

   
   

Q5. You’ve spoken about the importance of structured workflows in design. How have strong processes contributed to profitability and growth?

Structured workflows are the backbone of my business. They eliminate inefficiencies, reduce costly mistakes, and keep projects on schedule and budget. For example, our procurement process minimises errors, while our project management system ensures resources are tracked effectively. These efficiencies boost profitability and enhance the client experience—two outcomes that go hand-in-hand.

Q6. Which business systems—onboarding, procurement, or project management—have made the biggest difference in client satisfaction?

Client onboarding and project management stand out most. Our onboarding process—welcome pack, project proposal, and transparent pricing—sets expectations clearly from the start. Clients feel informed and confident. Then, during projects, our communication and tracking systems keep clients engaged and in control. That clarity and transparency consistently translate into satisfaction.

Q7. Your studio has earned recognition from the UK Property Awards and Luxury Lifestyle Awards. How has that visibility influenced your brand and business opportunities?

Awards serve as powerful third-party endorsements. They build credibility, attract high-end clients, and create media opportunities that amplify our brand. Features in outlets like The Times Property and Casa Vogue Brazil have extended our reach globally, further solidifying our reputation.

Q8. What role does industry recognition play in positioning a design studio for long-term success?

In a competitive market, recognition is both a differentiator and a motivator. For clients, awards provide assurance of quality. For the team, they inspire pride and fuel creativity. Industry recognition signals a commitment to excellence and helps ensure long-term relevance.

Q9. You created Interior Design Deconstructed to support other designers. What business gaps are you helping them close?

Many designers are immensely talented creatively but lack the business acumen to sustain profitability. Interior Design Deconstructed addresses this gap through a seven-module program covering branding, financial management, pricing strategies, client processes, and more. My aim is to equip designers with tools I wish I’d had a decade ago—helping them avoid pitfalls and build lasting businesses.

Q10. What’s the most common mistake you see new design entrepreneurs making, and how can they avoid it?

Undervaluing their services. Too often, new designers discount fees or work for free to secure clients. This sets a dangerous precedent and undermines profitability. The solution lies in developing a clear, confident pricing strategy based on market value and communicated through detailed proposals. Standing firm on value is essential to long-term success.

Q11. What trends in both design and business strategy do you see shaping the future of interior design studios?

In design, sustainability and biophilic principles will continue gaining traction—clients want spaces that are environmentally conscious and connected to nature.

On the business side, digital integration and service expansion are key. From VR presentations to AI-powered design tools, technology is reshaping the industry. Studios will also expand offerings into adjacent areas such as wellness consulting or home organisation. Adaptability will be critical.

Q12. Finally, what advice would you give to designers who want to build not just beautiful spaces, but a sustainable and profitable business?

Remember: you’re not just a designer—you’re an entrepreneur. Passion fuels creativity, but business knowledge ensures longevity. Invest in your business education, seek mentorship, and build strong systems. When you combine design excellence with entrepreneurial discipline, you create a practice that’s both fulfilling and sustainable.

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