Interior designer Nicky Percival joins Robin Johnson to explore what professional interior design really involves, from transforming Georgian country houses and period properties to managing builders, architects, budgets and complex renovation schedules.

Drawing on more than 35 years of design experience, including theatre design and television at the BBC, Nicky explains how she creates homes that feel natural, lived in and personal. Her approach combines antiques, vintage pieces, bespoke furniture and contemporary design while responding to the architecture and personality of each home.

Nicky shares how she draws ideas from clients who often struggle to visualise what they want, mediates between couples and tradespeople, and turns creative concepts into functional spaces. She explains why ergonomics, layout and practical usability come before decorative details, and why around 80% of an interior design project is spent making the design happen.

Key Topics Covered

✦ Nicky Percival's journey from interior design to theatre, BBC television and residential interiors

✦ Designing Georgian houses and period properties

✦ Creating natural, lived in interiors

✦ Managing architects, builders and tradespeople

✦ Why 80% of interior design is execution

✦ Using AI for photorealistic interior design renders

✦ Renovation budgets and contingency planning

✦ Traditional craftsmanship and modern technology

Check out Nicky Percival Design:

https://www.nickypercival.co.uk/

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Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson, founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop, this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.

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Key Moments:

00:00 Nicky's career in interior design, theatre and BBC television

04:03 How theatre and television influenced her residential design work

06:00 Why Nicky avoids having a signature interior design style

09:41 Bringing a client's personality into their home

11:32 Mediating between couples and discovering what clients really want

14:35 Working with architects, builders, plumbers and other trades

20:13 The logistics behind successful home renovation projects

22:44 Why 80% of interior design is making the design happen

28:32 Creating an experience through interior design

30:48 Why functionality and ergonomics come first

33:53 What clients are paying an experienced interior designer for

38:09 CNC technology, traditional joinery and modern craftsmanship

40:22 How Nicky uses AI for photorealistic interior design renders

46:46 Managing renovation decision fatigue and client expectations

51:45 Why renovation projects need a 10% to 20% contingency