Behind every design studio is a story of vision, collaboration and dedication. In this candid Q&A interview, Laura and Aaron answer 13 questions on how they built a business together, balancing creative and commercial roles, and the design principles that continue to shape their work, offering an honest insight into life behind the studio and the decisions that have defined its journey.
Which of your ongoing projects are you most excited to see come to life, and why?
Aaron: Central House. It’s a new region for us, so working in Turkey feels like an exciting next step. The client is incredibly open to design direction and genuinely excited for us to do something new, which gives us the freedom to push our usual design language.
Laura: I agree with Aaron, but I’d also add our Beverly Hills project. We’ve developed such a strong relationship with the clients, and the location itself brings a really fun energy to the project.
Favourite Laura Hammett Living design, and why?
Aaron: The Elemental collection will always be special. I remember Laura launching the brand and the work that went into it. I also love the Fabian Cabinet and Denton Side Table.
Laura: It’s impossible to choose, they’re all like my children. But the Bolton Ottoman stands out for being bold, with beautifully understated detailing.
A design detail you’re excited to see more of, or use more of in 2026?
Aaron: We’re working with some incredible marbles on upcoming projects that we haven’t used before. They’re expressive, characterful and genuinely beautiful.
Laura: Elevated detailing, particularly fringes on cushions. Our latest Laura Hammett Living collection focused on heritage fringing, and I love how those traditional details can be reinterpreted in a modern way.
A design detail or common mistake you’d like to leave behind in 2025?
Aaron: Repeating the same design for the sake of it, without originality or intention.
Laura: Poorly proportioned furniture, it can undermine even the most considered scheme.
Top tip for young design talent just starting out?
Aaron: Be a good listener, then ask good questions.
Laura: Absorb everything and stay enthusiastic. Passion really does make you stand out, and it will drive you through the more challenging moments.
If you could change just one thing to make the biggest impact in a space, what would it be?
Aaron: It’s rarely just one thing. Impact comes from a combination: lighting, well-considered layouts, colour, and scale all working together.
Laura: Lighting. Layered lighting is the most effective way to create mood and adaptability throughout the day. Integrated architectural lighting, in particular, can elevate even the simplest design.
Any new innovations, materials or technology you’re loving right now?
Aaron: Exploring how AI can be integrated into our process in a meaningful way. It’s an ever-changing landscape, and I find it fascinating.
Laura: AI is a big focus for the studio this year. It’s no longer daunting, just exciting. There are so many opportunities to enhance creativity and streamline the way we work.
A dream project you’ve yet to do?
Aaron: A ski chalet.
Laura: A boutique hotel.
Who’s more likely to push for a really bold design choice - AH or LH?
Aaron: Both, or more often, one of our designers.
Laura: We design very collaboratively, so I agree. It also depends on the project. Our team comes from such diverse backgrounds, and they often bring bold ideas we love exploring.
Who always spots a design problem first?
Aaron: Maybe me, but we’re both very good at catching errors.
Laura: We’re both programmed to scan for them constantly, so it’s often the first thing either of us notices.
Describe each other’s interior style in a few words.
Aaron: Laura’s is timeless, elegant and deeply thoughtful. It’s always evolving.
Laura: Aaron’s is meticulously detailed, refined and very considered.
One industry change you’d like to see in the next five years?
Aaron: More regulation and governance to protect the credibility of the profession.
Laura: A more enduring approach to design, prioritising longevity and craftsmanship over fast trends.
“I love running my own design studio because…”
Aaron: I’m completely obsessed with design, and it gives me the flexibility to spend time with my family.
Laura: I love the challenge, but also the process of building the business together. It’s been a wild ride, and I know there’s so much more to come.
