Finding My Way Back to Design: The Story Behind Kate VDM Interior Design

From Laura Ashley to the Corporate World

If you’d told me 20 years ago that I’d one day run my own interior design business, I probably would have laughed. Yet looking back, it feels like this path was inevitable — I just took the scenic route to get here.

My career actually began in interior design, working with Laura Ashley, where I first discovered the magic of colour, pattern, and texture. I loved how a thoughtful design could completely transform how people feel in their homes.

But at the time, I felt the pull to do something “more sensible.” I had a degree in marketing, and it seemed only logical to put it to good use. So I spent over 20 years in marketing, working in everything from small local businesses to large blue-chip organisations.

Over time, though, I became increasingly disenchanted with the corporate world. Marketing was becoming more about compliance than creativity — boxed in by brand guidelines and endless approval chains. The freedom to think differently and make something truly beautiful had all but disappeared.

The Caravan That Changed Everything

Then, quite unexpectedly, a small adventure set everything in motion. My husband was on garden leave, and — rather rashly — I bought a vintage caravan. I asked him to help me renovate it, and that project became the spark that reignited my love for design.

Designing such a tiny space was a wonderful challenge. Every inch had to be practical and functional, yet still stylish and inviting. It taught me the power of clever design and reminded me how much joy I found in creating spaces that worked beautifully and felt personal.

That little caravan project became the moment I realised: this is what I’m meant to do.

Founding Kate VDM Interior Design

In 2020, I finally decided to stop circling the idea and officially founded Kate VDM Interior Design.

Starting my own business turned out to be far less daunting than I had imagined. Those years in marketing had given me invaluable skills — from project management to client communication and business strategy — all of which now help me run my studio with professionalism and purpose.

Now, I get to combine that structure with the creative freedom that originally drew me to interiors. Every project lets me express my love of colour, pattern, and texture, while helping clients create spaces that truly reflect who they are.

My Design Philosophy and Services

At Kate VDM Interior Design, my mission is simple: to help people create homes they love, with design services that are accessible and affordable.

I believe great design doesn’t have to mean starting from scratch — it’s about making the most of what you already have and adding the touches that make a space sing. I’m a huge believer in reusing and repurposing, blending new ideas with existing furnishings to create rooms that feel refreshed, not replaced.

My services include:

• Colour Consultations – helping clients find the perfect palette to suit their personality, home, and lifestyle.

• Room Design Schemes – from simple colour updates that complement existing furniture to full redecoration plans.

• Whole Home Design – complete schemes for one room or an entire house, thoughtfully designed to balance beauty and practicality.

Whether it’s a cosy corner or a full renovation, my goal is always the same: to design spaces that feel like home — full of warmth, personality, and style.

A Creative Journey That Comes Full Circle

Looking back, I can see that every twist and turn in my career led me right here — to the place where creativity and strategy meet, and where I finally feel at home.