Interior Design Beyond Aesthetics: Nicky Percival on Period Homes, Project Management and AI

Interior designer Nicky Percival joins Robin Johnson to explore what professional interior design really involves, from transforming Georgian country houses and period properties to managing builders, architects, budgets and complex renovation schedules.Drawing on more than 35 years of design experience, including theatre design and television at the BBC, Nicky explains how she creates homes that feel natural, lived in and personal. Her approach combines antiques, vintage pieces, bespoke furniture and contemporary design while responding to the architecture and personality of each home.Nicky shares how she draws ideas from clients who often struggle to visualise what they want, mediates between couples and tradespeople, and turns creative concepts into functional spaces. She explains why ergonomics, layout and practical usability come before decorative details, and why around 80% of an interior design project is spent making the design happen.Key Topics Covered✦ Nicky Percival's journey from interior design to theatre, BBC television and residential interiors✦ Designing Georgian houses and period properties✦ Creating natural, lived in interiors✦ Managing architects, builders and tradespeople✦ Why 80% of interior design is execution✦ Using AI for photorealistic interior design renders✦ Renovation budgets and contingency planning✦ Traditional craftsmanship and modern technologyCheck out Nicky Percival Design:https://www.nickypercival.co.uk/Enjoying the show?Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world.Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson, founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop, this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms.Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.Check out Yours For The Making in YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUuzYPW_uJfM2B1XXRuZLUgKey Moments:00:00 Nicky's career in interior design, theatre and BBC television04:03 How theatre and television influenced her residential design work06:00 Why Nicky avoids having a signature interior design style09:41 Bringing a client's personality into their home11:32 Mediating between couples and discovering what clients really want14:35 Working with architects, builders, plumbers and other trades20:13 The logistics behind successful home renovation projects22:44 Why 80% of interior design is making the design happen28:32 Creating an experience through interior design30:48 Why functionality and ergonomics come first33:53 What clients are paying an experienced interior designer for38:09 CNC technology, traditional joinery and modern craftsmanship40:22 How Nicky uses AI for photorealistic interior design renders46:46 Managing renovation decision fatigue and client expectations51:45 Why renovation projects need a 10% to 20% contingency