For the past decade Emma Sims Hilditch has become a household name for a particular style of ‘English Home’ interiors. The journey however, was not exactly linear. Emma began her career completing a business degree and a job in film production, before returning to her roots and founding her own company Sims Hilditch.
The daughter of an interior designer, Emma grew up in a world full of art, architecture and design. In 2009 she founded Sims Hilditch, to offer a complete country homes interiors package from an HQ in the Cotswolds. With a fresh approach to a new English look, Sims Hilditch celebrate a style that is classic and comfortable but also highly relevant.
The colours showcased at Paint Library London’s store in Chelsea are the perfect tools for Emma’s work, as Sims Hilditch is famous for a calm, understated and tonal style. We sat down with Emma to learn more about her style and inspiration.
Hi Emma, which two Paint & Paper Library Archive Colours would you pair with your style of English Home interiors and why?
Piccadilly Pigeon – its such a lovely subtle dark green that we love to use in formal spaces. It would work so well in a formal dining room to create a darker and more atmospheric aesthetic.
Felt II – This is a staple colour that can be used in so many ways. It’s a beautiful neutral backdrop that can complement bold and textured fabrics and artwork.
Estuary – This is a calming and practical colour perfect for cabinetry or for rooms like the kitchen, utility or boot room. It represents the countryside and greenery which we choose to use in many of our country projects.
What is your earliest memory of colour?
I was brought up immersed in a world of art and design – I remember visiting museums as a small child and falling in love with Monet’s Waterlilies at the Musée de l'Orangerie in Paris. The palette used by Monet are analogous colours (that sit next to each other on the colour wheel) and are very calming and timeless.
What is your top tip for interior styling?
Build layers using contrasting textures such as wools and linens to create cosiness without being overly styledDo not be afraid of scale and proportion – I always encourage clients to go bigger than they might imagine. Oversized pendants over a kitchen island look great.Art work is so important within interiors, it will transform a room and adds personality. We enjoy mixing originals with prints either hung on a wall or propped on shelves within bookcases.
Can you define your aesthetic style in three words?
English, Understated, Elegant
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