Since a leap of faith led her to start her own business two years ago, interior decorator Kimberly Hughes has seen success — and learnt from great designers.

Ms Hughes, owner of Designs For Living, gained meaningful insight into her craft when she attended the High Point Furniture market in High Point, North Carolina.

This event is the largest home furnishings industry trade show in the world.

The trip was useful in that she found there a dedicated upholstery supplier, which has created custom pieces over the last year for a variety of clients.

And Ms Hughes also learnt about latest trends and had the opportunity to meet and spend the day sharing ideas with designer Candice Olson.

“I think she defines the meaning of lived-in luxury — she has a timeless style. I met her this year at the trade show and she was approachable and funny,” said Ms Hughes.

Previously, she met another designer, Kelly Hoppen, whose designs she also describes as timeless.

She said: “I got to spend a week with her doing a master class in London. Her interiors are characterised by their neutral tones interjected with lots of different textures.”

And she has also met award-winning designer, Oscar de la Renta, who passed away over three years ago.

Ms Hughes mentioned that over the last couple of years she has seen an increase in clientele.

“I have grown my client base and have been blessed in the main to have clients who make my job a lot of fun,” she said.

Ms Hughes defines her style as neutral with a bit of colour.

She added: “I like a room with lots of neutrals, fabrics in different textures and a splash of colour — maybe the pillows or the artwork, which can bring in the colour. I have an eye for detail, detail is everything.”

Branching out from working on kitchen and bathrooms has helped Ms Hughes gain more confidence in her decorations and abilities.

“When working for previous employers I concentrated on soft furnishings like window treatments and accessories, but since branching out on my own I have worked on kitchen and bathrooms,” she said.

Ms Hughes stressed that she shops locally at different furniture companies — but she tends to source and import if she cannot find what she is looking for on island.

“I like being my own boss and it’s my passion so I enjoy it,” she added.

For more information visit http://www.designsforliving.bm or call 441-737-7346