Inspirational interior designers: Kelly Hoppen

In the first of an occasional series on inspirational interior designers that have changed the way we decorate our homes, we look at the stunning work of Kelly Hoppen MBE.

One of Britain's most famous interiors designers, Kelly Hoppen MBE was only 16-years-old when she designed a family friend's kitchen. It was the start of a luminous career that saw Kelly design homes for many of the world's greatest names and culminated in an MBE for services to interior design. Kelly is also the author of many interior design books, including the recently published Design Masterclass and an investor on BBC Two's The Dragon's Den.

Kelly's Style

Traditional with a modern twist, Kelly's signature style is about harmony and balance, with some East-meets-West themes. She is famous for her clean lines, and her palette of taupes and neutrals.

Great Projects

Kelly has designed many celebrity homes, as well as top hotels. Her latest project is Footprints (pictured), a 7,000 square feet beach house in Barbados, where she drew inspiration from the lush tropical setting to create a bright and inviting environment.

Great Projects

Neutrals and white contrast beautifully with the vivid colours of the tropical landscape in this restful four-poster bedroom at Footprints

Great Projects

Another of Kelly's recent projects is this elegant private home in Britain.

Great Projects

A touch of green adds zing to this calm, beautifully understated room.

Kelly's Top Tips

Clean lines and symmetry always work well. Take your time when planning a space: pick a base colour - Kelly would of course chose something neutral, like taupe - and build on it, but don't be afraid to take some risks and think outside the box.

Where To Shop

Shop for Kelly Hoppen products at her new online luxury store, www.kellyhoppen.com