MEET THE STUDIO | 3 MINUTE READ
5 MINUTES WITH INTERIOR DESIGN INTERN AWA JALLOW
Behind the scenes, in association with Accouter Group of Companies, Accouter has been working closely with United in Design, a charitable organisation set up to address the lack of inclusivity in the interior design industry.
In April, United in Design launched their Apprenticeship Scheme 2022. Set to give the lucky selected apprentices an unparalleled opportunity to learn and grow within the interiors industry, the Accouter studio has been thrilled to have Awa Jallow join the team for the first 3 months of her apprenticeship with United in Design. With a particular passion for Biophilic and ethical design, Awa shares her experience so far.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BUILD A CAREER IN INTERIOR DESIGN AND HOW DID IT START?
“I've always been a creative person, and art was a way of channelling that creativity. So I found myself constantly gravitating toward highlighting the importance of inclusion and making people feel important through my artwork. I knew that I wanted to get into a profession where I could transfer my creative skills whilst being able to help impact the lives of people, which ultimately guided me towards Interior design.
Through studying the design degree at university, I was able to understand the relationship and importance between space and human beings and my goal as a designer became to create environments where people feel a sense of belonging and value. Interior design gives me the ability to be expressive and help change people's lives.”
Image Credit: Awa Jallow
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE A DAY IN THE LIFE SINCE YOU’VE BEEN AT ACCOUTER AND WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART?
“I would say that every day is not the same, and it's constantly changing, which makes it more exciting for me. But the mornings always start with checking emails and messages to make sure I'm up to date with everything. Then it could consist of sourcing accessories, Fabric sourcing, or ordering samples from suppliers or fabric.
I would say my favourite is site installs, as I get to see the vision come together and become more hands-on. I also enjoy supplier visits as I get to physically see and feel the products, which allows me to better understand the textures and colours.”
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE & WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT FAVOURITE INTERIOR TREND?
“I would describe my style as modern Scandinavian, which stemmed from being born and raised in a Swedish household. My approach to design always starts with how I can make the room feel lighter, cosier and more welcoming, which is why I naturally gravitate towards the Scandinavian design principles.
I absolutely love a neutral colour palette with pops of colour, different natural materials and textures and access to natural light, and my favourite, plants and flowers. I think infusing nature within allows people to deepen their connection with the natural world, and it helps in increasing better mental health and wellbeing.
My favourite trend is most definitely the fusion of Biophilic design within interiors. I also like that leather is making a comeback as the material has the ability to elevate a space instantly."
WHERE DO YOU SOURCE YOUR INSPIRATION?
“I source a lot of my inspiration from absolutely anything. I've got a very interesting way of looking at things, and I believe anything could be a source of inspiration, from a film to galleries and even the outdoors. However, I do love Pinterest as I'm able to discover new styles and ideas. I particularly like the ability to create pinboards and constantly add more ideas to them, which keeps it organised and easy to locate."
YOUR FAVOURITE BAZAAR COLLECTION PIECE?
“My favourite piece is the Möbius loveseat. I love the materials and colour used and also the connection and flow between both sides of the seats.”
