We step inside the sanctuary of Cambridge-based interior designer Catherine Harhalakis as she shares her approach to creating a tasteful haven for both her family and clients
Words Phoebe Harper Images Lucie Milton
Our homes and the way we live are very intimate to us. It’s important to me that a home tells the story of the people who live in them.”
For interior designer Catherine Harhalakis, an obsession with and passion for creating homely spaces began during her childhood in South Africa, where a Wendy house in the garden provided endless opportunities for home-making on a miniature scale. Fast-forward over the years, and Catherine has moved home over 20 times, crossing the globe to set up roots in new locations and renovating several properties along the way.
“I love the idea of transformation,” she says. “Each time those boxes arrive in your new space, you begin the process of recreating the way you like to live. Over time, I’ve developed a deep curiosity for how people live and the idea of home.”
Where the heart is
Home for Catherine today is a modern building in a village south of Cambridge, where she has lived with her family for the past eight years. Having collaborated with architects to design the house themselves, Catherine and her partner were originally sceptical of how newly built homes often lack the character that comes with having time to age.
“We were very considerate about the materials and finishes used so the house had texture and interest from the beginning,” she adds. “I didn’t want to end up with everything being bland and shiny!”
Soon, however, the family managed to put their unique stamp on the place, furnishing it with an eclectic collection of art, furniture and statement items amassed from the various countries they lived in over the years, immediately establishing a strong sense of belonging and ‘giving the home its soul’.
“The idea of building your own house can feel intimidating, and is overwhelming at times with all the endless decisions to make. But the joy of living in a house that’s bespoke to how you like to live is worth it.”
Home truths
As with her own sanctuary, Catherine’s idea of a successful home is one where harmony exists between the physical design of your space and the way you live. After creating her Cambridge home project, she recognised the knowledge gained over years of placemaking in various locations. She sought to formalise her education at London’s KLC School of Design, before taking the leap and setting up her own interior design business in 2022.
“I fill in the gaps where my client doesn’t know what they want to do, and bring fresh ideas that create something beautiful, comfortable and functional,” she comments. “When I work with a client, we begin by getting very detailed about how they like to live. We explore the functional side of the design before getting into the aesthetics and style. For instance, what does a typical day look like? How do they move around in their space? Do they like to entertain? Do they have kids and pets?”
Collaboration is at the centre of the process, with Catherine interpreting a client’s vision and bringing it to life by creating a space that enhances the lives of those living within its walls.
“Home must feel right for you,” she opines. “The design of my home and how my family likes to live enhances our human experience. This brings me a feeling of joy and connection to them and to the space we get to call home. A house that prioritises the human experience, as well as the way things look, will create a home.”
Find out more about Catherine and her work at catherineharhalakisinteriors.com
From the October 2024 issue of Cambridge Edition.
