Millie Johnson
When it comes to interior design, a well-informed eye is everything. With a higher education background in art and professional experience across the auction house, film, design, and art worlds, London native Millie Johnson brings a fresh, highly-trained view to residential spaces. We found Millie on Instagram and felt drawn to her work, which is at once timeless and personalized. Thankfully, she obliged to share her story with us. Meet Millie.
Millie Johnson
DS: Hello Millie, welcome to Design Storytellers. We’re excited to hear your story! Tell us about where you live and what you do, in your own words.
MJ: Of course, thank you. I am born and raised in London, where I currently live today. I’m a residential interior designer by trade, and I’ve worked in this industry for 9 years — 7 years employed by other designers, and 2 self-employed running my own business. For schooling, I studied at Leeds University where I received my BA in Fine Art & History of Art, along with a post-graduate diploma from KLC School of Design.
DS: Did you know you always wanted to work in interior design? What was the pathway that took you to where you are now?
MJ: I always knew I wanted to work in the creative industry, but it took some time to discover which area specifically. I did a lot of work experience during my university holidays - an auction house, film set, art gallery and then finally an interior design studio. I really took the time to ask the team questions about how they work, the positives and negatives of their job and threw myself into any roles I was given. This helped me to get a true sense of what the different career paths would entail.
My first job in interiors was working on the reception desk of a furniture and fabrics brand. This really helped me to develop sales skills and gain an understanding of the end client and their needs. I also learned lots about manufacturing, historic styles and how to sell products. From there, I worked my way into the interiors department and was lucky enough to learn from some very talented designers. In my spare time, I was on a blended learning Diploma at KLC - it was hard to juggle both work and study, but I knew I was committed to the job and I wanted to gain a qualification in the industry.
“Sloane Street” by Millie
DS: Wow, seems like you were able to get a lot of great and diversified experience. It seems like good advice for budding creatives, along with asking questions along the way. What specific advice to you have for those looking to become creative professionals?
MJ: Absolutely I would advise to start developing your personal style/brand as soon as you can. Stay curious, visit new places, get out of your comfort zone, lean into challenges and don’t be afraid to take the leap!
There is so much to learn, but starting is sometimes the hardest bit. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. All designers are learning constantly, that’s what makes it so fun!
DS: Speaking of fun, what do you enjoy the most about your job?
MJ: I love the fact it’s so varied. One day I might be on CAD drawing up lighting plans, the next I’m out at a workshop viewing a bespoke commission. The job really is what you make it, and I enjoy leaning in to the opportunities to work directly with skilled craft makers. I also make a concerted effort to buy second hand or from small makers/businesses because with purchasing power comes an opportunity to act more ethically and sustainably.
And learning, of course! I love learning from tradesmen, architects, project managers, crafts specialists, antique dealers, etc.
DS: I love your perspective and how you connect all of the facets of design into a cohesive learning experience. It’s so interesting to learn from, and be inspired by, professional peers. Where else do you find inspiration?
MJ: Haha, it’s probably visible in my design. I’d say visiting museums and galleries, visiting historic homes, and old books.
DS: When it comes to travel, what are some places you go to feel creatively awakened?
MJ: I’m lucky to live in London. I was born here and it is such a vibrant, diverse and creative city. The free art galleries, beautiful parks and restaurants provide so much joy. I also enjoy Venice, no explanation needed! I’d also say Mumbai. I will never forget the first time I saw Chowpatty Beach at sunset. I love it for the architecture, food, and atmosphere.
Interior design and styling by Millie Johnson.
DS: You’ve worked as an interior designer for almost a decade. What project are you most proud of?
MJ: Probably my Sloane Square project. It was the biggest job I worked on under my own business and I felt a great deal of accomplishment in completing it.
DS: Yes! We spotted that one on your Instagram, such a beautiful blend of livable textures and gorgeous furniture. On that note, what’s your favorite material to work with? Or your favorite design style to refer to?
MJ: I quite love Art Deco 1930’s, I love the glamour of it. Also, part of why I love my job is the variation of materials. It’s incredibly hard to pick one. But I particularly love working with fabrics, specifically silk. The way it ages is so beautiful, I love how it holds a sense of time. It’s something I feel we’ve lost in synthetic fabrics.
DS: Who are some creative people you look to from throughout time? Who do you find interesting?
MJ: Tove Jansson, Yayoi Kusama, John Soane.
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Find Millie:
Instagram: @Millie_Johnson_Design
Website: www.milliejohnson.co.uk
