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INTERIOR IDEAS | BEAUTIFUL HOMES | STYLE GUIDES | MADE BY US


Beautiful Homes



From Canada to the Cotswolds

Introducing Sean Symington


Following a childhood passion for interiors, with time spent browsing antiques markets and rearranging his bedroom to see which layout worked best, it's probably not surprising that Sean Symington has ended up as a much sought after designer. Having started his career in Toronto, where he completed a Bachelor of Arts from Ryerson University, School of Interior Design, Sean now lives in Bath with a business based in the beautiful Cotswolds town of Tetbury. Sean’s signature look is influenced by classic architecture and proportions, bold colour combinations, and a playful whimsy which keeps every space interesting.

Hanson wall lights with pull cord

We were delighted when we caught up with Sean to ask him all about his interior inspiration and how he manages to balance colours, patterns and design styles so well.

Welcome to the Style Journal Sean. Tell us first, where did your love for interiors begin?

It honestly began at such a young age. I have such vivid memories of weekends spent with my mom, wandering through antique markets and those early encounters with beautiful, characterful pieces really stayed with me. I was always drawn to how things were put together. Even as a kid, I’d constantly rearrange my bedroom, trying out new layouts and finding joy in creating little corners. Looking back now, I think it was inevitable I'd end up in design!

Hanson Library wall light

We love the colourful yet classical look that you create. How would you describe your style?

I’d describe my style as classic and fresh with a touch of whimsy. I love unexpected pairings, a pop of colour here, an antique there, and I’m always drawn to pieces that have soul and a bit of history. For me, the best interiors feel layered and lived-in, not overly styled or perfect. It’s all about creating spaces that reflect personality, individual design is everything.

Most people will look to designers for their home inspiration, where do designers look for theirs?

I think for most of us, it comes from the world around us, especially travel. For me, I’m constantly inspired by the places I visit and the everyday beauty of my surroundings. English country homes are a huge influence, I love their history, charm, and sense of proportion. There’s something so grounding about their layers and lived-in feel. And being based in Tetbury, Gloucestershire, is such a gorgeous part of England, I’m lucky to be surrounded by natural beauty and architecture every day. I find it endlessly inspiring!

bookcase gallery


Even though every project varies based on the customer's specific needs and wants, how do you ensure that each space has a ‘Symington' signature?

I think our design signature always comes through in the details, unexpected pairings, layered textures, and a confident mix of old and new. Whether it is pattern on pattern, colour-drenched walls, or a perfectly placed antique, there’s always a sense of personality and intention behind every choice. We love weaving in the client’s own objects and story, it’s about creating something that feels deeply personal to our clients' styles, but still has that layered, collected, and slightly whimsical feel we’re known for.

Landing lights in Putney home

What part of the process do you enjoy the most?

I know it probably sounds cliché, but honestly, it’s the people that make this job so special. I feel incredibly lucky to work with such a brilliant mix of trades, suppliers and clients, many of whom turn into friends along the way. There’s something really rewarding about that collaboration, the shared vision, and the trust that builds throughout a project. It’s a true labour of love and being surrounded by passionate, talented people makes every part of the process feel meaningful.

classic english study

You have featured our Hanson wall lights in several spaces. What is it about this design that brings you back to it for different spaces?

This is one we come back to time and again, it’s such a timeless, elegant piece that works beautifully across so many different styles of space. There’s a classic simplicity to the design that never feels overdone, and we love how customisable it is, whether through the finish or by adding a beautiful lampshade. It brings just the right touch of polish and warmth which is why it’s become a bit of a staple in our projects.

Turned brass stair rods


What advice would you give to readers who are tentative about using colour and patterns in their homes but would like to add more depth and interest?

If you’re feeling unsure about introducing colour or pattern into your home, start small. One of the easiest ways is to begin with a single piece that you love, maybe it’s a cushion, a rug, or a piece of artwork with beautiful colours or an interesting pattern. Use that as your starting point and pull tones from it to weave throughout the room, perhaps through a lampshade, a throw, or even a painted piece of furniture. If adding colours still feels intimidating, focus on layering. Mix old and new furniture, incorporate characterful antiques, and build depth through texture, think coffee table books, sculptural objects, or varied textured textiles.

Sean Symington

Finally, a few quick-fire questions...
What are your top tips for making a house a home?

Surround yourself with things that mean something to you, whether it’s family photos, heirlooms, or pieces collected on your travels. Mix pieces you love, don’t worry about everything matching perfectly. And most importantly, have fun with it! Don’t be afraid to play with colour, shape, or scale. Your home should reflect your personality, it’s not about getting everything “right,” it’s about creating a space that feels completely yours.

What’s your favourite room to design?
I think children’s rooms are such a joy to design, they’re playful, imaginative, and full of charm. You can really lean into colour, pattern, and a bit of whimsy, which makes the process so fun. That said, it’s always a nice design challenge to make sure the space can grow with them, striking that balance between sweet and timeless so it still feels right a few years down the line.

Your favourite Jim Lawrence product, and why?
My favourite Jim Lawrence piece has to be the Double Gosford Wall Light in antiqued brass. It’s beautifully elegant and brings such a sense of warmth and sophistication to a space. We love using it in entrance halls and hallways, it feels instantly inviting and pairs effortlessly with any style of lampshade. It’s one of those timeless designs that adds both texture and charm and just works wherever you put it.


GET THE LOOK


Club Wall Light
Club Wall Light
Lampshades
Cushion Cover in Green & Gold Norwood
Cushion Cover in Green & Gold Norwood


Discover more of Sean's interiors at his website www.seansymington.com and for more decorating inspiration check out his insta account @seansymington
Photography by Chris Wakefield, see more at www.chriswakefield.photograhy
and on instagram @chriswakefield.photography


To stay up to date with Jim Lawrence, follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. Browse our website www.jim-lawrence.co.uk to see all of our hand forged and finished lighting and homeware.



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