Tilly Stewart is the founder and creative force behind SAVVY INTERIOR, an interior design studio based in Edinburgh, Scotland. She holds a BA (Hons) degree in Interior Design from Northumbria University in Newcastle. Since establishing SAVVY in 2022, she has had the privilege of working with clients worldwide, from Saudi Arabia to the US, the UK, and beyond. The firm’s growing social media presence has allowed it fostering meaningful, global relationships, and they are excited to continue expanding our portfolio. SAVVY specializes in creating unforgettable, one-of-a-kind residential, commercial, hospitality, and retail spaces, driven by an unwavering passion for design.

1. Could you tell us how your journey into interior design started?

I have had a passion for interior design since a very young age, influenced by my upbringing in a family deeply rooted in the textile industry. My parents’ involvement in this field introduced me to the world of interiors early on. Over the years, I gained invaluable experience interning at Holland & Sherry in both New York and Paris, further solidifying my commitment to pursuing interior design as my profession. I followed this passion academically, studying interior design at university and graduating during the pandemic. After completing my studies, I worked within the interior design industry for two years, taking on a variety of roles that expanded my skill set and industry knowledge. I ultimately knew I wanted to own my own interior design studio eventually, and in 2022 I decided to take the risk and establish SAVVY, where I could bring my own visions to life.

2. Do you think there has been a defining moment in your career?

As a perfectionist, I am always striving to achieve more, so it can be challenging to pinpoint a single defining moment. However, one standout milestone in my career has been the opportunity to gain clients through social media, enabling me to work on projects worldwide. One of SAVVY’s most exciting projects this year began when a client discovered us on TikTok. This connection led to an incredible opportunity to collaborate on a project based in Saudi Arabia. Experiences like these have been pivotal in shaping SAVVY’s growth and expanding our reach globally.

3. What do you think is the key to a successful interior design? And in your business in general?

In my opinion, the key to a successful business lies in passion. Without genuine passion for what you do, it can be challenging to define your vision of success, especially given the inevitable hardships that come with running a business. Passion not only fuels perseverance but also makes the tough days more manageable when you love what you do. For SAVVY, my mantra is, ‘There is a solution for everything.’ This mindset helps me manage stress, allowing me to stay focused and move forward with confidence.

My projects always begin with a design consultation, where I take the time to understand my clients’ vision, preferences, and the goals they hope to achieve. This initial stage is crucial for aligning on a shared direction and setting the foundation for the project. I love the concept design phase on any project, as it allows me to explore and gather inspiration from a wide variety of sources. Whether it’s through platforms like Pinterest, design books, travel experiences, or even fashion, I find that drawing from diverse influences helps spark creativity and shape a unique and cohesive design direction for each project.

5. How would you define your signature style? Do you have “a mantra” that encapsulates your taste in design?

I would describe my personal style as dramatic and distinctive, always aiming to create a sense of uniqueness in every design. At the same time, I strive to balance this boldness with elements of timelessness as well as a chic aesthetic, ensuring the spaces I design feel both sophisticated and enduring.

6. Could you tell us about one of your favorite projects that you worked on?

One of my favorite projects to date has been a recently completed residential property at the iconic Television Centre in London. This project embodies the essence of drama, with each carefully selected piece contributing its own sense of uniqueness and creating a visual dialogue of textures, colors, and shapes. It was a project that truly pushed creative boundaries, allowing for bold expression and innovation in design.

7. What was one of the hardest learned lessons in your journey?

One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned since establishing SAVVY is adjusting to the subjectivity of design. While I’ve always understood that design is inherently personal, experiencing it firsthand—especially when working on residential projects I’ve designed with great thought—has been a challenging adjustment. Additionally, navigating relationships in the industry has been a learning curve. My natural naivety, which I view as a positive quality, has allowed me to take bold risks, including starting my own business at the age of 24. However, there have been times when trusting too quickly has led to setbacks on certain projects. These experiences, while difficult, have been valuable in teaching me to approach collaboration with both optimism and discernment.

8. What was the best advice you have received in your path?

I think a piece of advice that has stuck with me is something my dad told me years ago and that is “if you want people to respect you, you have to respect them”.

9. What would be your advice to beginner interior designers?

My advice to aspiring interior designers is fairly simple: no one will believe in you the way you believe in yourself. If you have a passion, act on it. Waiting for ‘the right time’ is an illusion, so don’t let excuses hold you back from pursuing your dreams. Take the leap and trust in your vision.

10. What are your favorite pieces from the Philia Collection?

11. Finally, what are your upcoming projects? Anything you’d like to share or add to the interview?

We have some exciting projects on the horizon at SAVVY. We’re expanding into the world of commercial interiors, and we can’t wait to share more with the world in the New Year. Stay tuned for what’s to come!