Solicitor-turned-interior designer Tara Rodrigues wowed us on Channel 4’s The Big Interiors Battle, and won the show's ultimate prize - a luxe two-bedroom flat in a high-end development in Sheffield. We caught up to talk about what it was really like on the show, and life as an interior designer…
We loved your room transformations on The Big Interiors Battle! What made you apply for the show?
I was looking for a new job, as I’d received a job offer for a junior design role, and I was so deflated at the thought of doing another junior role for another year. Though I’d chosen to start a new career, I had a law degree and lots of transferable skills – so I trusted that the process didn’t have to be as arduous and financially-limiting as it had been. I saw this opportunity as a ladder that fell across my path.
What was it like being on the show?
It was a mixed bag of emotions. It was fun, exciting, hard, challenging, nerve-wracking and enriching all at the same time. I didn’t feel nervous about being on camera – it was just a bit awkward having someone document every emotion and thought process, which of course didn’t all make the cut.
Do you have a favourite room that you designed in the show?
Designing my kids’ room was the most meaningful room for me. I applied for the show so I could give them a better future and quality of life. Every design detail was so intentional and little parts of their personalities and passions were scattered throughout the room. I made bespoke headboards which I upholstered in fabric they chose. I replaced the standard drawer knobs with brass bee handles because my youngest daughter adores bees! I wrote affirmations on little post-it notes and stuck them on the cork board above the shelf I created for the upcycling challenge, as my eldest daughter loves affirmations and manifestation.
What was it like to see your apartment light turn green, and realise that you’d won?
I think I had a 10 second delay between the light going green and registering that I’d won! It was one of the most life-changing minutes of my life. Change usually happens slowly over a period of time, but this was an instant change that I couldn’t quite take in. It was better than winning the lottery because it was based on my efforts and not luck, on skill and not chance, and doing the thing I love the most.
How was designing a room in the show different from designing a room for a client?
We didn’t have full control over some of the technical design aspects, which we would do for a client. Technical design includes detailed lighting and circuit plans, which we could only edit slightly. The kitchen and bathroom layout was also a bit restricted – for example, the kitchen island position was already decided. Ergonomics and anthropometrics [the practice of taking measurements of the human body] are considerations that affect the overall layout when I’m designing for a client, but personal requirements and lifestyle heavily influence the best use of a space.
Tell us about your interior design business, Tara Rodrigues Interiors…
I’m absolutely living my dream now! I launched my business, Tara Rodrigues Interiors, in April 2023. I apply biophilic principles and approach design from a holistic perspective, combining what a client wants for the space with things that’ll enhance their lifestyle and wellbeing. I draw a lot of inspiration from the colours found in the natural environment and usually start with an image of nature to conceptualise a colour palette.
Do you have any rules when designing a room?
One of my principles is attention to detail when planning a space. I start by thinking about each room within the wider context of the house, hotel or office building. So when I design a bedroom, I think: ‘Is there another room to relax and watch TV in, or does the bedroom need to accommodate this?’ Design is really subjective, therefore when I’m taking on a brief, it’s my job to consider things that my client wouldn’t have thought of as relevant.
I also love the wabi-sabi principles of design which are rooted in the beauty of simplicity, authenticity and imperfection. I love using aged wood, asymmetrical artwork or lamps and textured vases, but dictated by the client’s preference as many people find symmetry comforting and reassuring.
Before working in interiors, you trained and worked in law. What was your journey between the two industries like?
Training to become a solicitor built the resilience and self-belief I needed to change careers and set up my own interior design business. When I reflect on my career journey, there’s been a theme of working in people-facing roles, to deliver professional services directly to clients with some form of social, financial or emotional impact. Law felt too constrained for me – I love the flexibility of my work day now and often take an hour or two to get outside and get inspiration. I spend time nurturing my mind to think creatively. Interior design is a fun and creative way to have a meaningful impact in people’s lives.
What’s your personal interior style like?
I’d describe my own taste as eclectic as I like a wide range of historical design eras, and pattern, colour and design styles. I love mixing up textures and materials that wouldn’t ordinarily be paired together and don’t see myself as constrained to any particular style. My personal taste is constantly evolving!
Where’s home for you now?
I stayed in Ealing to be close to friends and family. Filming the show for eight consecutive weeks reinforced the value of a good support network, especially as a single parent!
What’s your favourite room at home?
Still my kids’ rooms! They have their own rooms now, so I’ve designed each space for them as individuals as they shared a room before. They always have candles on and relaxing music before bed and it’s such a joy to see how much having rooms they love impacts them so positively.
What’s your latest purchase for your home?
An asymmetrical mango wood coffee table. I love asymmetrical furniture or pieces with a fun texture.
What’s next for you?
I’ve got lots in the pipeline at the moment so I’m trying to pace myself. This year, I’m working on my international portfolio. I also plan to help people with financial or social disadvantages by repurposing furniture, bathroom suites and stripped-out kitchens, which are often in great condition and sometimes new, to give people homes and spaces they love.
Find out more about Tara’s interior design services and follow her at @tararodriguesinteriors.