ABOUT US
Creating elegant, timeless homes that feel effortless to live in
Bowerbird Design is a London based interior design studio founded by Suzanne Pownall. We create elegant, timeless homes that respect the integrity of their architecture while supporting the way families live today.
Our expertise lies in transforming period properties, preserving their character and celebrating original features while thoughtfully reimagining spaces for modern family life. The result is calm, characterful homes that are both beautiful and practical, deeply personal and designed to stand the test of time.
Based in South East London, we work predominantly on residential projects across London and the South East, while also considering commissions further afield.
Meet Suzanne
Bowerbird Design was founded by Suzanne Pownall in 2010.
Following a successful career in media and advertising, Suzanne developed a passion for creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional. She went on to study Interior Design at Chelsea College of Art & Design before gaining valuable experience with several respected London design studios, working across both residential and commercial projects.
This combination of creative thinking, commercial experience and technical design expertise informs Suzanne's approach today. She is known for creating elegant, characterful interiors that balance beauty with practicality and for building strong relationships with clients throughout the design process.
Working collaboratively and with great attention to detail, Suzanne guides each project from concept through to completion, creating homes that feel timeless, personal and effortless to live in.
Our Design Philosophy
We believe great design begins with understanding the people who live in a home. Every project is shaped by the individual needs of our clients, balancing aesthetics with functionality to create spaces that feel natural, intuitive, and uniquely their own.
Working closely with each client, we take time to understand how they live, how they use their space and how their needs may evolve over time. This thoughtful approach allows us to create interiors that not only look beautiful but genuinely enhance everyday life.
We are particularly drawn to homes with architectural character and enjoy the challenge of unlocking their full potential. Whether restoring original features, improving flow, or reconfiguring layouts, we seek solutions that feel considered, cohesive and entirely at home within the building.
Our Approach
Our surroundings have a profound influence on our wellbeing. Through thoughtful design and a careful selection of materials, we create interiors that feel calm, balanced and uplifting.
Nature is a continual source of inspiration, reflected in our use of natural materials, soft textures and a palette that brings warmth and authenticity to a home. We believe the most successful interiors are those that feel layered, comfortable and quietly elegant rather than overly designed.
Rather than following fleeting trends, we favour a timeless approach rooted in simplicity, quality, and longevity. The homes we create are intended to evolve gracefully, remaining relevant and beautiful for years to come.
Our Values
We value craftsmanship, quality and thoughtful decision-making.
Whenever possible, we support local craftspeople, independent makers and British manufacturers, sourcing pieces that are built to last and contribute to the individuality of a home. We also look for opportunities to retain, reuse and repurpose existing furniture and architectural elements, reducing waste while preserving character and history.
For us, sustainability is not about following a checklist but making considered choices that prioritise longevity, quality and enduring design.
Bowerbirds
The studio takes its name from the bowerbird, often described as the interior designer of the avian world.
To attract a mate, the male bowerbird carefully constructs an intricate structure known as a bower, thoughtfully arranging collections of natural objects such as shells, leaves, flowers and stones. Every element is selected and positioned with purpose, creating a space that is both functional and beautiful.
The parallels with interior design have always resonated with us. Like the bowerbird, we believe great design begins with the structure. Before considering colours, furnishings or decorative details, we focus on creating layouts that flow effortlessly and support the way a home is lived in.
Once the foundations are right, attention turns to the layers that bring warmth, character and individuality to a space. Through craftsmanship, natural materials and thoughtful detailing, we create homes that feel both beautiful and deeply personal.
Image: Shutterstock