What we do & about us
We adopt a hybrid approach to design that offers a holistic perspective on how people live within space. Our work sits at the intersection of interior design, residential architecture, and bespoke product manufacturing, allowing us to shape environments that are cohesive, considered, and deeply human.
This cross-pollination of disciplines is known as interior architecture, an approach that looks beyond surface aesthetics to consider structure, spatial planning, materiality, light, and how a space is experienced over time. It enables us to work with clarity and depth, whether we are collaborating alongside architects or working directly with clients on their homes.
Below, we outline the different aspects of our design process to familiarise you with this integrated way of shaping the built environment.
About the studio
Inherent Design is led by Michelle McIlroy, whose practice is grounded in both creative intuition and architectural understanding.
Michelle grew up driven by an instinct to create, there were never enough colouring pencils, paint, paper, fabric, or camera film. That early curiosity continues to inform her work today, shaping a design process that is rich in ideas, feeling, and spatial awareness.
After studying interior design in Christchurch, Michelle moved to London, where she worked at The Conran Shop, focusing on furniture design for an elite international clientele. She later joined Aram, a long-established London design institution, where she refined her understanding of modern furniture, art, and the foundational principles of interior design under the guidance of the Aram family.
During this time, Michelle worked closely with designers, artists, and architects, creating one-off pieces and contributing to collaborative architectural and interior projects. These experiences deeply informed her approach, strengthening her ability to move fluidly between disciplines.
Her interiors are strongly influenced by colour, light, and spatial rhythm, and by an interest in how environments affect emotional and physical wellbeing. To deepen her understanding of structure and form, Michelle completed tertiary-level papers in residential architecture, developing skills in CAD-based design, spatial problem-solving, and the physical composition of buildings.
This architectural grounding allows Michelle to work confidently at the point where interiors and structure meet, an area that is often critical to the success of residential projects and particularly valuable when working alongside architects.
At the heart of the practice is a desire to create spaces that are interactive, considered, and quietly transformative, environments that support real life, offer a sense of ease, and genuinely serve the people who inhabit them.
Human-centred interior architectural design
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Interior design
Creating functional, holistic and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces.
Space Planning: We analyse the layout and flow of a space to optimise functionality and efficiency. This includes determining furniture arrangement, traffic flow, and spatial relationships.
Design Concept Development: We develop a design concept based on client needs, preferences, and the intended purpose of the space. This involves selecting colour schemes, materials, furniture, lighting, and decor.
Visualisation: We’ll use sketches, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and 3D rendering to visually communicate design ideas to clients.
Coordination: We collaborate with architects, contractors, and other professionals to ensure design plans are implemented correctly and according to schedule.
Selection of Materials and Furnishings: We chose appropriate materials, finishes, furniture, fixtures, and equipment that align with the design concept, budget, and functional requirements.
Project Management: We oversee the execution of the design plan, including procurement, installation, and construction supervision if necessary.
Budgeting and Cost Estimation: We prepare budgets, estimates, and schedules for interior design projects, ensuring they remain within financial constraints while meeting quality standards.
Client Communication: We maintain regular communication with clients to update them on project progress, address concerns, and ensure their satisfaction with the final design outcome.
Creative flair is blended with technical expertise to transform interior spaces into environments that are visually appealing and functional.
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Architectural design
We consider both the aesthetics and functionality with applied to residential environments
Designing: We can create plans for buildings, ensuring they are structurally sound, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. We consider factors like space utilization, environmental impact, and building codes.
Planning: We collaborate with clients to understand their needs and goals for the project, then develop designs that meet those requirements.
Project Management: We oversee the construction process to ensure that their designs are implemented correctly. This involves coordinating with construction teams, engineers, and other professionals.
Problem-Solving: We often encounter challenges during the design and construction phases and must find creative solutions that balance design goals with practical considerations.
Technical Expertise: We possess knowledge of construction materials, building codes, environmental regulations, and technological advancements in architecture.
Communication: Effective communication skills are crucial as we interact with clients, engineers, contractors, and government officials throughout the project.
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Commissions & product design
Product design is the process of creating a new product or improving an existing one
Identifying Needs and Requirements: We understand the needs and desires of clients. We can conduct research, gather feedback, and analyze the market to identify gaps or opportunities for new products.
Concept Development: Once the requirements are clear, we brainstorm and develop concepts that address those needs. This stage involves sketching, prototyping, and using various design techniques to explore different ideas and iterations.
Design Detailing: We work on refining the details. This includes creating detailed drawings, specifying materials, dimensions, and manufacturing processes. We also consider factors such as ergonomics, safety, and sustainability.
Prototyping and Testing: Prototypes are created to evaluate the design’s functionality, usability, and performance. Testing may involve user feedback, simulation, or physical testing to identify and address potential issues or improvements.
Iterative Design Process: Product design often involves multiple iterations and refinements based on testing feedback and insights gained throughout the process. We continuously refine the product to achieve optimal performance and user satisfaction.
Collaboration: We work closely with cross-functional teams, including engineers, marketers, manufacturers, and sometimes end-users, to ensure the product meets technical requirements, market demands, and user expectations.
Aesthetic Considerations: While functionality is crucial, product design also focuses on aesthetics.Visual appeal, branding, and emotional engagement are important factors.
Manufacturability and Cost: Designers consider the practical aspects of manufacturing the product at scale. We aim to optimise manufacturing processes, minimise production costs, and ensure the product can be reliably manufactured without compromising quality.
Lifecycle Considerations: Sustainable product design involves considering the environmental impact throughout the product’s lifecycle, from material selection and manufacturing processes to end-of-life disposal or recycling.
Overall, product design integrates creativity, technical expertise, user-centricity, and strategic thinking to develop products that not only fulfill functional needs but also to resonate with users and clients.Product design is the process of creating a new product or improving an existing one