Spear’s Review 

Kelly Hoppen’s career began when she designed a family friend’s kitchen at the age of 16. Four decades on, she has MBE and CBE appointments and clients who include the likes of Madonna, Sir Elton John, and Sir David and Lady Victoria Beckham.

In sharp contrast to her glittering client base, Hoppen’s designs typically feature understated, neutral palettes. But in recent times, she is increasingly seeking to invoke feelings and emotions. ‘My big thing at the moment is all about building structures which are better for your nervous system,’ she tells Spear’s.

Her versatility and agility have led to an impressive portfolio that includes homes all over the world – from New York and Hong Kong to Courchevel and Lake Geneva – as well as hotels, yachts and private jets. She explains that the key to a successful project is a ‘proper marriage’ of creativity with the client, and attention to detail ‘at the highest level’.

A ‘military’ approach to structuring projects also means that clients’ anxieties are neutralised during what can be a stressful process for them. ‘We’re not happy if the project isn’t perfect,’ she says.

Read more: Kelly Hoppen on empowering women, promoting Britain and dealing with dog hair