We are delighted to present our latest spotlight blog, showcasing the exceptional work of Caroline Riddell of Caroline Riddell Interiors. For interior designer Caroline Riddell, choosing flooring is part of creating a space that feels cohesive from the ground up.
With a design approach rooted in considered material choices, Caroline creates interiors that balance colour, texture and functionality. We spoke to her about her approach to interior design, the materials she returns to and how wood flooring can help shape a space.
How would you describe your design style?
I would describe my design style as Contemporary Classic, with a love of colour. I create spaces that feel charming and relaxed, with an elegant feel that is never too precious. Above all, I believe a home should reflect the people who live in it, so each project is shaped around the client's individual needs, tastes and lifestyle.
For me, Contemporary Classic design is about finding the right balance between traditional and modern elements. Symmetry, considered proportions and quality craftsmanship sit alongside streamlined forms, elegant furnishings and thoughtful detailing.
Colour also plays an important role. Rather than relying on a completely neutral palette, I use carefully considered tones to add personality and depth, while keeping the overall scheme calm and cohesive.
The result is a space that feels familiar but contemporary, with classic details balanced by a relaxed, modern approach.
We’d love to hear more about your latest renovation projects?
We are currently working on a new-build beach house where the client wanted an open-plan living space. With much of the façade glazed to maximise views across the sea, it was important that the materials felt connected to the surrounding landscape.
We chose a natural palette of pebble, stone and oak for the exterior, which continues throughout the interior with real wood flooring. The result is a considered material palette that complements the coastal setting while bringing warmth and texture into the open-plan space.
What to consider when choosing the right floor?
On the majority of our projects, we start with the floor, considering its character, tone and texture from the outset. Wood brings warmth and depth to a space and, depending on the finish and format, can feel both relaxed and formal.
It is an incredibly versatile material, and the range of tones, formats and finishes available from Ted Todd means we can find a floor to suit each project. Sustainability is also important to me, which is another reason I was drawn to Ted Todd and their approach to responsible timber sourcing.
Choosing a well-made, durable floor also means it can remain part of a home for many years, making it a considered long-term investment.
Do you have any notable projects where you have specified a Ted Todd floor?
One of our latest projects featuring Ted Todd flooring is a beautiful double-fronted Edwardian family home in Central London. We had the pleasure of completely redecorating the property, including new bathrooms, a study, large family room and drawing room, alongside an extensive lower-ground basement transformed into a billiards and media room.
We chose Cashmere Chevron for the flooring, as its soft, natural tone and classic chevron format work equally well across contemporary and traditional schemes. It brings continuity and character to the home while complementing the varied spaces throughout.
We also specified Ted Todd flooring for the restoration and remodel of an 18th-century manor house, where the brief was to create an elegant yet relaxed home for a large, energetic family. The durability of Ted Todd flooring made it a practical choice for a home with high levels of footfall, while still providing the character and warmth needed for the scheme. The project was later featured in House & Garden.
As featured in House & Garden, our renovation of a 17th-century converted barn also incorporated Ted Todd flooring. Here, we chose a floor with subtle tones and natural character to complement the original architecture while giving the historic space a more contemporary feel.
Do you have a favourite Ted Todd floor?
We have favoured Cashmere from the Create Collection across the projects above, drawn to its natural oak character and understated tone. It works well with my design style while offering a hardwearing, easy-to-maintain finish.
I particularly like how quietly it sits within a scheme, allowing the flooring to complement the furniture, colours and materials without competing for attention.
Our dedicated Specification Consultant, worked closely with Caroline Riddell Interiors to specify the perfect floor for their latest renovation projects. To discuss your latest project get in touch by calling 01925 283 000.
To find out more about Caroline Riddell visit carolineriddellinteriors.co.uk, or follow them @carolineriddellinteriors
Photography Credit: Alexis Hamilton and Rachael Smith Photography
