Q&A with Charlotte Gibson, Lead Designer at Scion

Firstly, tell us a little bit about you and how you got into design...

I have always been an interiors lover, ever since watching 'changing rooms' as a child back in the 90s! I love colour, pattern and anything touchy feely. 

I studied textile design at De'Montfort University in Leicester in 2013, and although the course spanned print, weave and multimedia I knew print was for me! I actually came on work placement with the styling team at Sanderson Design Group in my second year which I loved, however really wanted to be in the design studio.

My prints from my degree show were picked out by the Sanderson Design Group studio team and I started as a freelance designer in the studio later that year and have worked full time on Scion for the last 3 years. 

How would you describe Scion to someone new to the brand?

Scion is all about finding simple pleasures in every day. We are a proud British brand who want to bring joy into your home. We are all about transforming your space in a weekend and bringing playful prints to any interior scheme, we are known for characterful designs with plenty of personality. To top it off all of our prints and wallpapers are printed right here in the UK which makes them extra special!

Scion has such a positive, upbeat approach to design which is reflected in all fabric and wallpaper collections.  Why is this important to you?

Scion’s ethos is about making the world a happier place. Whether that is a few rolls of wallpaper to make your space the happiest it can be, or your first cup of tea in the morning in your favourite Mr Fox mug to make you smile. It’s also important to us to make the planet a happier place too so we focus on sustainability with our products and our approach to design.

Scion has some really iconic designs such as Mr Fox and Lohko, fun-loving and instantly recognisable. What’s your favourite design, and why?

I love Nuevo, I am all about bold geometrics and how it can bring a retro feel to a space. I also need to mention the Garden Of Eden design from our new launch, still can’t quite believe we have got away with boobs on a wallpaper! Even if it is very tasteful…!

Inspired by the clean lines of Scandi designs and using bold, vibrant colours and patterns, Scion designs are full of personality. Do you have any advice or top tips for someone looking to incorporate pattern in their home?

Personally, I think the first place to start is your colour palette. Think about the big pieces of furniture in your home that you love, like your sofa, and build the colour palette around that. You can go bold with a wallpaper or try a hint of print by upholstering your favourite chair. Cushions in block colours and small scale prints are a great way to bring a playful elements to a space.

Where do you take your inspiration from?

I take inspiration from everywhere! The Scion studio is full of cutting and samples of things I pick up when I’m out and about, from nature, an exhibition or even a fab hotel. You never know where inspiration will strike!

What exciting launches do you have in the pipeline for Scion this year?

We are always super busy in the Scion studio. This year we are looking to add to the Garden Of Eden story with more fabulous prints to build on the Arts and Crafts trend with plenty of pattern and pops of colour to update your home. Watch this space!

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