Transforming a Run Down London Terrace into a Warm Personal Home Behind The Design

Go behind the design with interior designer Emily Pun as she shares the deeper story behind the transformation of her London home. Following her full house tour on The Interior Design Show, Emily reveals the thinking, challenges, and creative decisions that shaped the space, from restoring original features and navigating planning restrictions to designing bespoke joinery and incorporating reclaimed materials.

Emily also explores her personal design philosophy and how her background in interior architecture influences the way she approaches both her own home and her clients’ spaces. She explains why great design starts with people, not aesthetics, and how understanding how someone lives is essential to creating spaces that feel meaningful, functional, and lasting.

Throughout the episode, Emily offers practical advice on renovation priorities, where to invest, where to save, and how limitations can become opportunities for creativity. This is an honest and insightful look into the process behind the finished result, and the mindset that drives thoughtful, human-centred design.

00:00 Introduction
00:42 Creative Background & Career Path
03:04 Design Philosophy & Working with Clients
05:13 Renovation Advice: Where to Spend & Save
06:59 Buying and Transforming the House
08:52 Kitchen Design and Extension
09:47 Lighting and Functional Design
11:16 Office, Bedrooms and Daily Living
13:27 Planning Challenges and Creative Solutions
15:08 Renovation Lessons and What She’s Most Proud Of
17:20 Reclaimed Materials and Original Features
20:25 Design Details, Colour and Personal Touches
23:37 Launching Her Business and Future Plans
25:15 Final Reflections