Nichola Hunter on design, the importance of lighting and the interior trends to note in 2026

Did you always have an interest in interior design?

Absolutely. I’ve always been fascinated by how spaces make people feel — how the right layout, colour palette, or texture can completely change the way you live in a room. Even as a child, I was constantly rearranging furniture and noticing details like lighting, balance and proportion. That innate interest naturally evolved into a professional path.

How has your previous career as a kitchen designer influenced your work as an interior designer?

Kitchen design taught me the importance of precision and practicality. It’s where form and function have to work in perfect harmony. That discipline has shaped how I now approach every project — considering not only aesthetics but how a space will truly be lived in day to day. It also deepened my understanding of materials, storage solutions, and how craftsmanship can elevate a design from good to exceptional.

What is your design process?

My process always begins with understanding my clients — their lifestyle, tastes, and the way they use their home. From there, I build a concept that ties together the architectural style of the property with the client’s personality. I develop a clear narrative for the space, exploring materials, textures, and colour palettes before moving into detailed layouts and finishes. Every step is collaborative and carefully considered to ensure the final result feels cohesive and personal.

How do you incorporate a homeowner’s tastes into a design brief?

Listening is key. I spend time getting to know my clients and studying how they live, what they value most in their home, what inspires them, and even what they don’t like. My role is to interpret their tastes in a refined, elevated way while ensuring the design remains timeless and practical. It’s about guiding them towards decisions that feel authentic yet fresh.

Where do you like to begin when designing a space? 

It’s often a single spark. Sometimes the fabric, sometimes the architecture, or even the natural light in the room. But I usually begin with materials and texture. Once I define the mood and tactile palette, colours and finishes naturally follow. The aim is always to create a layered, harmonious space that feels effortless.

What’s your favourite room to design and why?

I love designing kitchens and living spaces because they’re the heart of the home — where functionality and atmosphere must coexist seamlessly. There’s something so rewarding about creating a space that brings people together and enhances daily life, especially when it reflects both comfort and sophistication.

During these winter days, lighting is essential. How do you approach lighting a room?

Lighting can completely transform a space, particularly in Ireland, where natural light changes so dramatically throughout the year. I approach lighting in layers, combining ambient, task, and accent lighting to create depth and warmth. Dimmers are essential, as is the quality of the light source. I also pay close attention to how finishes and materials interact with light; a well-placed lamp or wall light can add beautiful dimension.

Are there any practical elements that homeowners often overlook?

Storage. Beautiful design needs to function seamlessly, and good storage makes that possible. I also think people often underestimate the importance of scale, how the size of furniture or the height of joinery can impact the feel of a room. Getting those proportions right creates flow and balance, which is what makes a space truly work.

How do you approach trends when it comes to your interior design?

I always keep an eye on emerging trends, but I prefer to interpret them subtly rather than follow them directly. Longevity matters — I want my clients to love their homes for years to come. If I use trends, it’s often through accessories or small details that can evolve easily over time. My focus is always on creating a timeless foundation.

What do you think the big interior design trends of 2026 will be?

I think we’ll see a continued move towards warmth and tactility. Things like natural textures like limewash, boucle, and raw stone. Colours will likely stay grounded and earthy, with muted terracottas, soft greens, and deep ochres coming through. There’s also a growing appreciation for craftsmanship and bespoke design, interiors that feel personal and considered rather than mass-produced.

Have you come across any pieces or elements that you just absolutely love at the moment?

I’m currently drawn to sculptural lighting and artisan-made pieces, objects that have character and tell a story. I love finding handcrafted items that add soul to a space, whether it’s a ceramic lamp, textured linen, or a piece of bespoke joinery. It’s those details that bring a design to life and make it truly unique.

Learn more at nicholahunterinteriors.ie.