Member Article

Durham entrepreneur launches interior design venture

A North East business woman is celebrating the launch of her dream interior design company.

Richmond-based Vanilla Bay, that manages projects as small as cushion design to as big as whole house decoration, is the creation of distinguished style guru Karen Nichols.

Karen, originally from Durham, is a well known figure in the industry with over 35 years’ experience. She has already had a surge of clients, including hotels, holiday cottages, businesses and residential homes.

After eight years co-running nu-interiors, one of the largest decorating shops in Darlington, with husband Martin, Karen said: “It’s so exciting to be on the path of a new business adventure. This is a dream of mine and I truly love my job – how many people can say that?

“Over the last few years the interior design business has grown stronger as people have less time and become out of touch with the latest trends.

“The housing market has definitely turned and people are on the move – a lot of people have already asked me to give their home a makeover to help sell it.”

The innovative business has a solid team of four including an interior designer, curtain technician and two seamstresses. Throughout the next five years Karen has hopes to build up her team.

Prior to nu-interiors Karen was a director of a family business which operated 24 decorating stores, she continued: “I’ve already had excellent feedback from clients. To continue to make this business a success I plan to offer my vision, continue to be creative and always stick to budget. I love the challenge of every single project!”

The Vanilla Bay team regularly attend prestigious interior design shows and exhibitions, particularly at the Design Centre Chelsea Harbour.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ellen Forster .