About me
Hello! Im glad you're here!
I’m Claudia Schmidek (also known as Kika), an Interior Designer with an Architecture Degree and a truly global perspective. Made in California, born in Brazil, and living in London for nearly 20 years, I bring a unique blend of influences to my work. This diverse background lends a distinctive twist to my style, combining vibrant creativity with a grounded sense of practicality.
After working as a Part II Architect for several years and even longer as an Interior Designer (both in London and abroad), I’ve developed a comprehensive understanding of the structural, functional, and aesthetic elements of design—and how each space impacts us physically and psychologically.
I also draw on a wide knowledge of fabrics, woods, and materials, honed during my previous roles as a Jewellery Designer/Maker and Set & Costume Designer/Maker. Growing up in a creative family with a DIY attitude ingrained in my DNA, I have a natural tendency to think outside the box and take on new challenges with enthusiasm.
My approach thoughtfully merges time-honoured design principles with modern sensibilities, crafting spaces that are not only beautiful and functional but also deeply nurturing and harmonious.
"I have known Claudia's work since 2005. We had just bought our first property - a town house in desparate need for renovation and updating. I knew very little about interior design and decoration and our budget was tight. Claudia brought the perfect combination of practicity, comfort, beauty and eco-friendly style. Her work transformed our dull house into a fun home. Our cluttered kitchen became a warm and pleasant kitchen-diner, our tiny cloakroom, which was avoided by my claustrophobic mother-in-law, now feels spacious and ageless. Even after fifteen years when people use my cloakroom, they ask me if I have recently renovated it."
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About my work
Creating Spaces That Tell Your Story
Your space should be a reflection of who you are, and I’m here to help you tell that story. Whether it’s a cozy home, a vibrant office, or a serene retreat, my goal is to design spaces that resonate with your unique personality and needs. Together, we’ll create an environment where you can feel safe, inspired, and truly at home.
Thank you for considering me for your interior design needs. I look forward to collaborating with you to bring your vision to life.
Thriving on Design Challenges
One of my greatest passions is working on challenging layouts. I love transforming spaces that seem too small to accommodate all that's required, have awkward shapes, or are not conducive to a good flow in general. These projects push my creativity and problem-solving skills to new heights, resulting in innovative solutions that maximize functionality and aesthetic appeal. No matter the challenge, I am dedicated to crafting spaces that are both beautiful and practical.
Feng Shui with a Scientific Twist
My design philosophy is deeply and intuitively influenced by the principles of Feng Shui, specifically the Form School. Unlike the mystical connotations often associated with Feng Shui, my approach is grounded in neuroscience and our primal instincts. This method focuses on creating balance and flow within spaces, promoting a sense of calm and wellbeing. By aligning the design with the brain’s natural signals for safety and comfort, we craft environments where you can truly feel at peace and thrive.
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A Tribute to Vernacular Architecture
I hold a profound admiration for vernacular architecture and the ancestral wisdom that has shaped our built environment for centuries. This deep respect for traditional building methods informs my design process, allowing me to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also rich in cultural and historical significance.
Sustainability at the Core
Sustainability is more than a buzzword for me; it’s a way of life. In both my personal and professional endeavors, I am committed to reducing, reusing, and recycling wherever possible. I have a passion for incorporating vintage furniture, fabrics, and other items into my designs, breathing new life into pieces with history and character. Additionally, I make it a priority to reuse what my clients already own as much as possible, integrating these cherished items into the new design in a way that feels fresh and intentional.
This commitment extends to sourcing natural, non-toxic materials that are planet-friendly, durable, and ideally reusable or recyclable. By choosing sustainable materials, I ensure that every project not only looks good but also supports a healthier planet.
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