International Women’s Day: Designers Guild

Q&A with Tricia Guild, founder and Creative Director of Designers Guild.

Tell us about your role and your business...

I am the Founder and Creative Director of Designers Guild. We are an international interior and home furnishings business with showrooms around the world selling fabrics, wallpaper, paint, furniture and lifestyle accessories.

What inspired you to choose a career in interiors? 

I was always interested in interiors and whilst working as an interior designer, I couldn’t really find the fabrics that I wanted to use so I decided to create my own. I suppose what always interested me was the idea of a total look – a lifestyle really - and that is what Designers Guild is today- a way of making one's interiors feel special and individual which is ultimately rewarding.

What challenges have you faced as a woman in your industry, and how have you overcome them? 

When I started Designers Guild, it wasn’t always easy and I had to learn fast that every decision I made had consequences for the company and its future. I was always quite decisive which helped. I do remember a few accountants telling me to give up when business was a little tough but I was always determined and I think it's determination that really helped me overcome those challenges.

Based on your own experience, what advice would you have for women wanting to get into your industry, or start a business of their own?

Go for it – be strong,  decisive and don’t ignore your instinct – that inner voice is very important. However, it is equally important to listen to the people you trust and work with.

What do you love most about being positioned in Marylebone Village?

It’s an iconic corner of London with beautiful architecture, a brilliant balance of interesting, speciality shops and independent stores, restaurants and cafes that have a unique metropolitan atmosphere coupled with the familiarity of a village. WE love being in Marylebone Village.