An inside look at the new series of Interior Design Masters
Interior Design Masters in returning to our screens very soon and we can’t wait for another series of home inspiration and nail-biting challenges.
This year promises to be bigger, bolder and quite frankly, more bonkers than ever before – and we can’t wait!
We managed to get the lowdown on the new series and this year’s contestants ahead of the first episode. Here’s an idea of what to expect…
When does series 7 of Interior Design Masters start?
The 7th series of Interior Design Masters will air on BBC1 on Tuesday 21 April at 8pm.
What can we expect from this series?
Alan Carr and Michelle Ogundehin are returning for the series, with 10 designers reimagining eight incredible spaces – from beach huts to castle hotels.
Alan Carr explains: “What I love about the show is the different personalities, the design hacks and most of all the transformations. I think the show has such a dedicated following that we didn’t want to change it up too much, but there are a few few surprises along the way.”
The first episode, and task, of the series involves transforming 10 beach huts on the south coast in their own signature styles. What’s not to love about that? Alan agrees: “I think episode one is full of standout moments, the planets aligned that day.
“They might look like a simple hut, but they are deceiving. There’s not much space, they have to be multi-functional, and you really need to think on your feet as a designer. I was so impressed with the designers, and I knew right there and then that it was going to be a brilliant series.”
Michelle Ogyndehin adds: “This series feels more confident than ever. The level of talent is high, but what I really love is the range of perspectives. You’re not just seeing people decorate, you’re seeing how differently people think about space, and how those decisions play out under real pressure.
“What viewers can expect is a real mix of ambition and constraint. The briefs are demanding, the timelines are tight, and that’s where the truth of a designer really reveals itself. Who can make strong decisions and stand by them.”
What trends or inspiration will we be taking away from this series?
All of the designers are so inspiring, in all kinds of ways so there are plenty of take away points.
Alan this year has had one firm favourite trend though. “For me, every series there is a new design that grabs my attention and this series it’s colour drenching!! Be bold, grab the tin of paint with the boldest colour and drench drench, drench! It can literally transform a room and it’s so easy!”
Michelle on the other hand, likes to be reminded of the value of ingenuity. “Designers who can think laterally, who can take a constraint and turn it into something intentional. They are the ones who often produce the most interesting results.
There are always small, clever solutions: unexpected uses of materials, or ways of creating impact without relying on budget, but the bigger takeaway is mindset. The ability to stay flexible, and to keep designing even when things aren’t going your way.”
What advice would you give to any aspiring designers?
Michelle believes it’s important to focus less on how things look, and more on their function.
“The strongest designers understand that a space is not a photograph, it’s something people live in. It shapes behaviour, mood, even health. If you can design with that in mind, you move beyond surface decoration into something far more valuable.
“And practically speaking: make decisions! Indecision is what derails most projects. Even a wrong decision will teach you more than no decision at all.”
Who are this year’s Interior Design Masters designers?
Each series has 10 new designers for us to get to know, competing to win the prize and launch their own homeware range.
This year’s contestants are as exciting as ever – here is some info about each.
Ajeet
Before the show, Ajeet has been made redundant and was in a period of uncertainty – trying to land a full time roll while exploring interior design with a few clients. The first challenge began a year to the day of him being made redundant, which felt quite cosmic.
He describes his style as transitional, architectural and sophisticated.
Ben
Ben’s main motivation for applying for the show was to get his name out there to build his own career.
He describes his interior design style as antique, historical and quirky. He also believes that Victorian styling and antique design is what will stand the test of time.
Duran
Duran is a superfan of Interior Design Masters, having watched every series. She had always thought about applying, and after coming out of a 10-year relationship, her sister sent her the application form.
She describes her style as modern, romantic and sculptural, and is a big fan of colour drenching.
Duran explains: “It creates a cocooning, immersive environment that can feel both dramatic and warm, and it works beautifully in spaces of all sizes.”
Emmely
“I’m a sculptor and designer, so I’ve always been interested in spatial design. I also create a lot of furniture pieces and love finding beauty in everyday objects.
“Interior Design Masters felt like the perfect way to push myself creatively and learn more about interior design, without having to go back to university and spend a ridiculous amount of money.” Emmely explains.
She describes her style as creative, uplifting and playful, and she believes timeless designs are more important in interiors than fads on TikTok and Pinterest.
Frankie
“This experience was right out of my comfort zone as I’ve never wanted to be on TV! I couldn’t resist the idea of having a bunch of fun spaces to design, a van, a budget, a painter and a carpenter on hand.” Frankie explains.
She describes her interior style as colour, joy and play. As expected, she is a huge fan of colour drenching, and is on a mission to create fun, playful spaces with the use of bold confident colours.
Jonni
Since giving up performing, interior design has been Jonni’s creative outlet and Interior Design Masters felt like the ultimate challenge.
“I’ve always questioned what my life would be like stepping away from the spotlight and how I could channel my creativity, so I asked myself, why not interior design? I wanted to push myself creatively and see how my ideas would stand up in such a high-pressure environment and I loved every second of it!” he explains.
Jonni describes his style as bold, classic and chic.
Kate
Kate has always loved interior design, but it didn’t always feel accessible. When renovating, she’d save images she loved and get quotes, realising she couldn’t afford to achieve the look. Instead, she learned DIY and how to recreate the ideas on a budget.
Applying for the show felt like a chance to prove that the typical path isn’t always the one you have to follow – a beautiful home is possible whatever your budget.
She describes her style as creative, resourceful and layered.
Lia
Lia describes her style as sophisticated, joyful and botanical. Her motivation for applying for the show was being obsessed with the series since the beginning”
She explains: “For the last few years, so many friends had told me to apply, but I didn’t think in my wildest dreams I’d make the cut to join such an amazing bunch!
“However, after being given creative freedom to redesign several staff rooms at my job in retail and seeing the impact my designs had on people, I knew I wanted to keep feeling that magical spark. I handed in my notice and made it my mission to give it 100% and try to make it as a designer. I then received the call to say I had made it onto this year’s line-up, which felt like a dream come true!”
Sophie
Sophie describes her interior design style as rebellious, layered and atmospheric. Her motivation for applying for the show was showing everyone what she could do, after launching her small business.
She explains: “I have a unique design style that I want to share with the world. The opportunity to get hands-on experience in a competitive environment and get 1-2-1 feedback from some of the most well-respected people in the industry was what I needed to become a better designer, a better business owner and a stronger, more confident person.”
Teo
Teo describes his style as relaxed, punchy and contrasting. He applied for the show to show other guys that interior design is something they can be interested in.
“You shouldn’t be judged or boxed in for having an interest in interior design as a guy. Having a space where you can switch off, escape and feel comfortable is something everyone needs.”
Catch up on Interior Design Masters on BBC iPlayer, and watch the first episode on BBC1 or BBC iPlayer on 21st April at 8pm.
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