Brian Woulfe is an Irish interior designer and the Managing and Creative Director of Designed by Woulfe, a London-based interior design company with a focus on sustainable design practices.[1] He is recognised for his work in transforming private residences and high-end properties, often incorporating elements of sustainability into his designs.[2][3][4][5]

Woulfe is known for modernising period homes while maintaining their historical character. His design approach often features a mix of high-quality materials such as marble and wood, combined with a natural colour palette to create inviting and functional spaces.

Biography

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Born in Ireland, Woulfe originally pursued formal training in piano and later established Landor Records, a classical music label, before shifting his focus to interior design[5]. He founded Designed by Woulfe in 2008, and in 2016, established the studio's permanent base in London.[6]

In 2018, Designed by Woulfe won several awards, including Best Luxury Interior Design Studio and Best Luxury UK Interior Refurbishment for their work on an apartment in St. John's Wood.[7] The project focused on balancing both aesthetic and practical design elements.[8]

In 2021, Designed by Woulfe was one of the founding signatories of "Interior Design Declares," a climate-focused call to action within the industry.[9] This initiative promotes regenerative design practices to address the climate and biodiversity crises.[10][11][12]

Woulfe is a member of the Society of British and International Interior Design (SBID),[13] the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID),[14] and the Institute of Designers in Ireland (IDI).[15]

Awards and recognition

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  • Andrew Martin Design Review World's Top 100 (Winner, 2017)
  • The Sunday Times British Homes Awards (Winner, 2018; Finalist, 2020 and 2021)[16]
  • The International Design & Architecture Awards (Winner, 2018; Shortlisted, 2018)[17]
  • UK Property Awards (Winner, 2018-2019, 2020-2021, 2021–2022)[18]

Design philosophy

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Brian Woulfe's design philosophy is rooted in creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and preserving historical character.[19] His work reflects a deep respect for natural materials, including marble, wood, and other high-quality finishes, which he combines with neutral colour palettes to craft timeless and inviting interiors.[20]

A hallmark of Woulfe's approach is his ability to modernise period properties while honouring their architectural heritage. By integrating contemporary elements seamlessly into historic homes, he creates spaces that balance tradition with modern living.[21] This fusion of old and new is achieved through meticulous attention to detail and an understanding of how design can enhance daily life.

Sustainability is a core element of Woulfe's practice. He incorporates regenerative design principles into his projects, striving to reduce environmental impact without compromising luxury or functionality. As a founding signatory of "Interior Design Declares,[11]" he advocates for environmentally conscious design practices across the industry, aiming to address the climate and biodiversity crises.

Whether working on private residences or high-end commercial projects,[22] Woulfe's designs reflect a commitment to creating environments that are elegant, liveable, and ecologically responsible.

References

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  1. ^ "Designer Q&A: Brian Woulfe". 11th November 2021. Retrieved 2nd January 2022. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |access-date= and |date= (help)
  2. ^ "What does an interior designer do? It's more than cushions!". 28th September 2021. {{cite web}}: |first= missing |last= (help); Check date values in: |date= (help)
  3. ^ Glazin, Simon. "Brian Woulfe and Chow Mein The Chow Chow". Retrieved 24th November 2024. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |access-date= (help)
  4. ^ Stockley, Philippa (16 March 2020). "Wood flat is now a stylish home for an award-winning designer and his dog".
  5. ^ a b Phungbun Na Ayudhya, Pimchanok (10th April 2024). "Woulfe in the house". Bangkok Post. {{cite news}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  6. ^ "Interview with Brian Woulfe, founder of Designed by Woulfe". 17th April 2018. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  7. ^ "Best Luxury Interior Design Studio 2018 & Best Luxury UK Interior Refurbishment: St. John's Wood". 14th November 2018. Retrieved 21st December 2021. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |access-date= and |date= (help)
  8. ^ Odeen-Isbister, Sara (20th July 2018). "Inside the St John's Wood home of interior designer, Brian Woulfe". {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  9. ^ "Climate declaration from interior design sector calls for 'paradigm shift' in behaviour". 24th November 2020. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  10. ^ "Interior Design joins the global petition movement of Construction Declares". 21/07/2021. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  11. ^ a b "Interior Design Declares has launched". March 19, 2021.
  12. ^ Hayward, Jeff (March 23, 2021). "A group of interior designers has issued a statement demanding collective action to confront the climate and biodiversity emergencies".
  13. ^ "Designed by Woulfe". SBID. Retrieved 24th November 2024. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |access-date= (help)
  14. ^ "Brian Woulfe". biid.org.uk. Retrieved 24th November 2024. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |access-date= (help)
  15. ^ "Brian Woulfe". Retrieved 24th November 2024. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |access-date= (help)
  16. ^ "AWARD CATEGORIES".
  17. ^ "Designed by Woulfe". Industville. 2 March 2021.
  18. ^ "Winners Books".
  19. ^ "Brian Woulfe explains why connection and creativity were the building blocks for the reimagining of this contemporary Maida Vale home". Retrieved 24th November 2024. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |access-date= (help)
  20. ^ "Designed By Woulfe Specify Minoli Porcelain Tiles". Minoli. 19th February 2024. Retrieved 24th November 2024. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |access-date= and |date= (help)
  21. ^ "Designer in Profile: Brian Woulfe, Founder of Designed by Woulfe". Retrieved 24th November 2024. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |access-date= (help)
  22. ^ "Designed by Woulfe".