Nicola Smith’s home is a true reflection of her bold and eclectic style, as showcased on Channel 4’s Outrageous Homes. The interior designer, content creator, and tattoo artist has transformed her garden room studio into a space that is both functional and visually stunning. Here, she shares the story behind the creation of this fantastically weird and wonderful space.
Nicola, along with her husband Garin and their labrador Olive, resides in a 1920s detached house in Andover, Hampshire. The couple saw potential in the blank area at the end of their garden and decided to turn it into a multi-functional studio space. Nicola needed a separate area to work as a tattoo artist, away from the main house, but also wanted to create a space that could be enjoyed by their family and friends. The garden room features a compostable toilet and sink, making it a versatile space that can also serve as a spare room when needed.
When embarking on the project, Nicola advises others to research thoroughly and visit showrooms to see different garden room options up close. With so many variables to consider, it’s essential to choose everything from windows to flooring and wall finishes carefully. Nicola opted for an air-con unit to regulate the temperature in the studio and cleverly disguised it with leopard print vinyl, staying true to her signature style of bold colors and patterns.
The interior of the garden room reflects Nicola’s love for color and pattern, with William Morris Sanderson Archive prints adorning the walls and soft furnishings. She made the curtains herself, using another Archive print, which provided a cohesive look throughout the space. Nicola believes in mixing old and new pieces to give a room personality, incorporating family heirlooms alongside new antique Chinese cabinets and brand new furniture.
Accessories play a crucial role in adding character to the space, and Nicola has curated a collection of unique pieces from various sources, including recycling centers and eBay. She believes that accessories don’t need to be expensive and enjoys finding hidden gems from small businesses on Instagram. The eclectic mix of items, from a giant metal Buddha head to Balinese carvings, creates a visually stimulating and personalized environment.
In terms of sourcing materials and furniture for the garden room, Nicola provides a list of suppliers in the sourcebook section of the article. From the garden room itself to fabrics, wallpaper, and furniture, she shares where to find the key elements that bring her vision to life. Additionally, she includes a breakdown of the budget spent on the project, giving readers a realistic idea of the costs involved in creating a similar space.
Overall, Nicola Smith’s garden room studio is a testament to her creative flair and fearless approach to design. By combining her love for color, pattern, and mixing old with new, she has created a space that is not only functional but also a true reflection of her unique style. With careful planning, attention to detail, and a willingness to think outside the box, anyone can create a space that is as outrageously beautiful as Nicola’s.