While there will always be space for innovation and pushing boundaries in design, the relevance of creating homes and decor that emphasise purposeful choice, quality craftsmanship, and enduring style is more powerful than ever.
Interior designer and founder of bespoke furniture design company Soft&Co, Brenda Hart has built her career around intentional design. With more than two decades of experience creating spaces that speak to people’s needs and values, Brenda is adept at meeting people where they are. “More and more people want to live with intentionality, whether in the way they eat or spend their time, and this filters down to the spaces they occupy and the items they surround themselves with,” Hart explains.
For a designer who has built a practice around quality, craftsmanship, and timelessness, this focus on thoughtfulness is a deep-seated daily practice for her and the Soft&Co team. She shares some practical ways to focus on bringing intentionality into your space:
Function first, then form
Function is always the foundation – ensuring that the space is practical, comfortable, and usable for everyday activities is always our priority. By considering your daily routines, priorities, and values before making design decisions you are more likely to craft a space that enhances your life. But a focus on form is essential too.
The Juno bed end we designed is a perfect example – it was conceived from the understanding that a bed end bench is not just a place to sit, but also a significant focal point in a bedroom. With this in mind, the design married both form and function.
Timeless trumps trend
Trends are fun and can add spice to any space, but they are temporary and will date. Rather lean into fashion through smaller décor or accent fabrics and reserve major investments for pieces with enduring design appeal. Relevance is also timeless. If a piece or design choice serves a practical purpose or holds personal meaning, it will likely remain relevant over time.
Embrace the story
Craftsmanship is at the core of my design philosophy because it represents both the quality and artistry that define truly exceptional design. There is such a high level of personalisation and narrative inherent in handcrafted work that makes it all the more meaningful.
Quality counts
High-quality, well-crafted furniture may require a larger initial investment but offers superior value through a quality-first approach, inherent longevity, and a timeless appeal. Whether it’s the structure of a piece of furniture, the choice of materials, or the attention to intricate details, quality-focused, handcrafted items have an individuality that mass-produced products can’t replicate.
Harmony and longevity
Years and years of design and production experience keep Hart coming back to visual references, textures, tones, and materials that are inspired by nature and create a sense of harmony. Different timbers, stones, linens, and wools not only add texture and warmth but also contribute to a serene, welcoming, and intentional atmosphere. “Longevity is just as crucial. I prioritise materials that are not only beautiful but also durable enough to stand up to everyday use,” she says.
Above all, the purpose of a space and the needs of the end-user are at the core of the Soft&Co focus. “When creating spaces and designing furniture, my approach to balancing form and function is rooted in understanding the purpose of the space and the needs of its users.
I prioritise elements like flow, accessibility, and ergonomics to ensure that the space or item serves its intended purpose effortlessly,” says Hart. Each custom-designed piece in Soft&Co’s Cozy and Voguish ranges is an exercise in marrying both form and function.
“An intentionally designed chair not only looks appealing but also offers ergonomic support and comfort tailored to the user’s daily lifestyle. Intentional living is about committing to living mindfully in every aspect of your life and we love being able to act as conduits for people to do just that in their homes.”
