The Art of Slow Decorating: Why Thoughtful Interiors Matter More Than Ever
Our studio is always gently evolving with small additions and changes that FLOOR_STORY introduce
Welcome to slow decorating.
At Trifle*, we design spaces with heart, humour, and a whole lot of intention. And while the world races on in turbo mode, we’re seeing a rising rebellion against all that rush. People are pressing pause. They’re asking: what if our spaces didn’t need to be finished overnight? What if they evolved—as we do?
Welcome to slow decorating.
This isn’t about buying everything beige or throwing out your sofa because a mood board said so. It’s about taking your time. Curating rather than consuming. Choosing materials that are made to last. Championing local makers. Letting your space breathe, and—most importantly—letting it feel like you. It’s the design equivalent of a lovingly cooked Sunday roast, not a drive-thru dinner.
Our previous HQ was a characterful space where plants and accessories were added to over time
Why is slow decorating trending now?
Because we’ve all had a reset.
The pandemic shifted how we live, work and value comfort. Sustainability, wellbeing, and authenticity are now front and centre. Fast interiors? They’ve started to feel a bit flat.
People want interiors that last longer than a lease. They want spaces that tell their story—not someone else’s. And that takes time, intention, and yes—a little restraint.
What does slow decorating look like in our work?
At Trifle*, we don’t just design for the now—we design for the long haul. That means we:
Layer palettes with rich, natural, considered materials
Collaborate with craftspeople we actually know
Encourage clients to live in a space before rushing to fill every corner
Repurpose and reupholster instead of starting from scratch
Prioritise pieces that get better with age
The result? Interiors that grow with you—not just go with the algorithm.
Vintage pieces and old set pieces were incorporated and added to over time at Sonia Friedman Production HQ
Timeless furniture styles at Acacia Avenue created a space that doesn’t date
Slow decorating in the workplace
Yes, even in commercial spaces. Slow decorating in workspace design means planning for change—not just reacting to it. Think flexible layouts, future-proof furniture, and spaces that adapt as your team evolves.
We focus on quality over quantity, storytelling over styling. Whether it’s a breakout nook or a brand moment in the lobby, every element should serve a purpose and spark connection. Because thoughtful design is good for business—and even better for people.
Slow decorating at home
Your home should feel like a story, not a showroom. Slow decorating in residential interiors is all about creating meaningful, sustainable home environments. That might mean waiting for the right dining table instead of panic-buying one. Or keeping the old dresser and giving it a new life with colour or context.
A thoughtfully designed home isn’t finished overnight—it’s layered over years. And those layers? That’s where the soul lives.
Slow decorating in hospitality interiors
In hospitality design, slow decorating swaps out cookie-cutter concepts for personality-driven experiences. Guests don’t just want pretty—they want presence. They want to feel rooted in a place, not just pass through it.
Boutique hospitality spaces require tactile materials, heritage finishes, and one-of-a-kind pieces. Think locally made furniture, reclaimed materials, and a vibe that reflects the neighbourhood. Because when a hotel or restaurant feels lived in, people stay longer—and they remember why.
Layers added over years are where the soul of space is created
The takeaway?
Slow decorating isn’t a style—it’s a mindset.
Whether we’re working on a home, a hospitality concept or a head office, we believe in creating intentional interiors with lasting impact.
At Trifle*, we don’t design for trends. We design for people. And the best spaces—the ones that comfort, connect and inspire—aren’t rushed. They’re revealed, layer by thoughtful layer.
So here’s to slowing down. Let’s make it matter.
Author: Emma Morley, Director, Trifle*
Emma founded Trifle* in 2010 after a career in marketing, event design and production. Frustrated by the fact that only advertising agencies had inspiring spaces she had a desire to make good design the norm for all office workers. Emma has worked across well over 150 interior projects during her career at the helm of Trifle*, she remains passionate about making amazing spaces but also making the industry more accessible, more human and more diverse.
