This is the second post in this blog series, in which we interview other interiors-focused brand owners about their love of design, sustainability, and running a small business.
As a small, family-run business, at Uashmama we love championing others, learning how they run their business, and of course, finding out how they stay as sustainable as possible.
This time, we’re asking Grace King from Studio Rey, a friendly, accessible design company, finding joy in helping homeowners and small businesses create their dream space.
Grace founded Studio Rey in Bristol in January 2020, and since then they have taken on all sorts of interior design projects, from single rooms to entire homes, and from delis to co-working spaces, across Bristol, the South West and London.
Let’s find out more about this lovely boutique interior design company.
UASHMAMA: Why did you start Studio Rey?
GRACE: I had been working for commercial interior design companies for nearly a decade, and decided that it was time to start out on my own.
I realised I didn't enjoy designing spaces for big corporate companies, I like connecting with people and enjoy seeing the impact good design can have on my clients, whether they're homeowners struggling to make design decisions or small business owners that need help with their first commercial space.
Having my own business allows me much more freedom in terms of creativity and the types of clients I am able to work with.
UASHMAMA: Tell us what you love most about interior design.
GRACE: A well-designed space can have a huge impact on how we feel.
I love getting to know people and working with them to create spaces that truly work for them, reflect their personality, and bring them joy. I am also a lover of colour and I enjoy playing with colours and materials to influence the mood of a space.
UASHMAMA: How would you describe your approach to interior design?
GRACE: I think hiring an interior designer can often feel daunting, as the interior design world has a reputation of being a bit snobby! I want Studio Rey to be accessible, friendly and cost effective. I like to create colourful and vibrant interiors with warmth and personality.
UASHMAMA: What's the loveliest thing a customer has said about Studio Rey that still makes you smile now?
GRACE: I have received some lovely feedback from clients over the last four years. A couple I worked with recently wrote to me to say that I had helped make their house feel like home, and they now love coming home to it every day, which is the best compliment and made me feel all warm and fuzzy.
UASHMAMA: Which UASHMAMA product would you pick to style in your home?
GRACE: I would choose the Linen Table Runner in the linen colour for my dining table at home.
I have a 9 month old baby so we mainly spend our evenings in, and I enjoy making dinner feel special, especially if we have friends over. I would use this table runner with my favourite collection of mismatched plates, tall tapered candles and a vase of freshly cut branches to add some drama.
UASHMAMA: What are some of the best ways to incorporate sustainability into your interior design?
GRACE: Reusing or repurposing existing furniture and materials is definitely the best way to be more sustainable, as the production of anything new obviously has an impact on the environment. It is also often more cost effective!
For example, rather than ripping out a dated kitchen that is still in good condition, I would suggest painting or replacing the door fronts or adding a feature backsplash tile to uplift the space, which can have a huge difference, but is much less wasteful and costly.
UASHMAMA: Tell us about another sustainable business that creates products you would love to have in your own home.
GRACE: Woodmancote Retro are a Gloucestershire-based furniture maker that make fun and colourful tubular steel furniture. I love their pill stools which come in a variety of colours and have a seat made of either salvaged sustainable hardwood or playful recycled plastics.
UASHMAMA: What's a lovely thing you are looking forward to over the next 12 months of running Studio Rey?
GRACE: I gave birth to my first baby in April, so I have been away from work for the majority of this year, spending time with my son.
I have some great projects starting in 2025 which I am looking forward to focusing on. As much as I am enjoying being a Mum, I do miss getting my head into an exciting interior.
As recommended by Grace
We asked Grace to list 3 podcasts, blogs, or Instagram accounts that she'd recommend to those interested in interior design…
Homing In podcast from The Modern House
I spend an embarrassing amount of time swooning over The Modern House on Instagram, and this podcast is a little insight into the home lives of famous creatives - what's not to love?
Sundae Press on Instagram
A page celebrating the South West with a beautiful ice cream colour palette and playful graphics.
Imogen Heath Interiors on Instagram
Inspiring moodboards showcasing their gorgeous patterned fabrics.
If you want to learn more about Grace’s interior design business, head to the Studio Rey website or give them a follow on Instagram @studioreydesign.
Check out our previous blog post in this series, Creative & attainable interior design with Caroline from 91 Magazine to learn all about an independent biannual print magazine featuring beautiful interior spaces and inspiring creative folk, made here in the UK.