Abigail’s World

You’ve seen her eclectic, edgy style permeating the world of interiors by now, no doubt. The moody, dark walls with electric neon pops, the animal accents and opposing colours, Abigail Ahern’s work goes against (thankfully) the matchy-matchy, the formulaic, the regular. And people are turning to it in their droves to satisfy their urge for originality in their homes. With huge commissions for the Ritz Carlton and Heston Blumenthal’s TV sets under her belt, the interior designer, blogger and lecturer has become a master at fusing traditional design elements with modern whimsy. Her proficiency at turning things on its head pleases us greatly and as she launches her latest book, Decorating With Style, we wanted to know a few more things about her?

What motivates you??My business motivates me, it’s constantly evolving, growing and pushing me in new directions

It gives me a buzz when:?People buy the products I’ve sourced for the store. I buy from the heart not the head so it’s a fabulous buzz when stock goes whizzing out no sooner than it has come in.

If I wasn’t doing this, I’d be…It’s a toss up between a gardener and a detective, cannot decide which!

My guilty pleasure is:?The Housewives of Beverly Hills. I want to be one!

My five favourite things are:?Hubby, dogs, good coffee, real fires, my garden

Can’t live without … in my fridge, my handbag, my bathroom:?In my fridge (or freezer actually): toffee vodka, it’s amazing!?In my handbag: Yves Saint Laurent Forever Youth Liberator day cream. Not sure if it works or not but love the title!?In my bathroom: anything from Aesop – I love it all.

Career highlight so far… (a high five moment!):?Without doubt, the release of my latest book, a dream made reality.

What’s next for you??An accessory range for a leading high street retailer and an expanded schedule of design classes around the world from NYC to Sydney.

What is the one thing you would like everyone to know when it comes to decorating their homes??Have confidence. I think we are all, including me, held back so often by lacking confidence, so trust your gut and go for it!

Last book read and music bought:?Last book: What Katie Ate – I read recipe books in bed.

Music: I am obsessed with Audio Sushi they compile lists of music that appeals from lounge to jazz to hip hop.

By Ellie Balfe, who is becoming obsessed with re-decorating her house.?@elliebalfe?

WE HAVE THREE COPIES OF DECORATING WITH STYLE TO GIVEAWAY TO THE FIRST THREE PEOPLE WHO TWEET US @image_daily SAYING ‘I LOVE ABIGAIL’S WORK’

DECORATING WITH STYLE by ABIGAIL AHERN, published by Quadrille (?16.99)

Photos ?GRAHAM ATKINS-HUGHES