For The Love of Design: Lauren from House Of Lita on meeting function with form.

We’re here for interior design advise especially when it mandates that we forget trends in place of pieces that bring joy - amen! House of Lita founder Lauren Steel sat down with us this week to talk finding inspiration in the spaces we occupy and a love of design that dates back to her childhood.

Hello House of Lita, can you tell us where you’re speaking to us from today?
From the House of Lita boutique and studio in Wickham in inner Newcastle!

Can you tell us about your background in design and what made you decide to open to the space?
I have a background in interior, design and lifestyle publishing and have quite literally always dreamed of opening a lifestyle boutique. I left my dream job at Vogue Living to move to Newcastle (where my now husband was based) and I decided to make that life-long dream a reality!

Most interior designers say their love for design started when they were a child - is that the same for you?
Absolutely. My Dad is a carpenter by trade and I quite often would request different items of furniture for him to make for my room. One of the most memorable pieces would have to be a peach-coloured timber desk that had purple stars (also made out of timber) for draw handles.

Can you tell us about your idea of *good* design?
Good design to me is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, but most of all I believe good design in an interior context is simply when a space makes the owner or occupier feel inspired, happy and at home. I truly believe that an inspiring space — whether a home or office — can positively impact the way you live.

Do you have a philosophy when it comes to design?
Forget trends, choose things that bring joy.

What do you love about Wickham St Studios?
It’s inclusive, joyful and vibrant vibe.

What is next for the store? What is currently inspiring you.
We’re currently working on our own homewares range — stay tuned!

Rapid Fire Questions:

Favourite way to move your body… A run outdoors or a Pilates / Barre class.

Best song to work out to is… Anything Calvin Harris.

Best song to dance to is… Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars.

First thing you do when you wake up… Make my bed!

Last thing you do before you go to sleep… Say good night to my baby girl, Lottie.

Place you’d like to be… Europe like the rest of the world would be nice! However, can’t complain spending my days in (mostly sunny) Newcastle.

Your favourite piece in House of Lita… Currently, an artwork by local Newcastle artists Kiasmin called “Whispering”. It’s pastel hues, soft brush strokes and joyful presence are calling me to take it home…