Designer insights with Emma Garland

Emma Garland is the founder of The Block Shop, an online store and blog based on the TV show The Block, where she shares designs from your favourite couples and favourite brands. Emma originally worked on the show managing their social media, but wanted to take things a step further. So, along with her cousin (who also worked on the show) she established the brand and has never looked back. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Emma Garland.

Designer Insights - Emma Garland

- Transcript -

1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?

My style is very classic and if I had to give it a name, I would say it’s Hamptons Beach style. However since launching The Block Shop, I have been encouraged to take more risks with my own styling and introduce more colour, using artworks and soft furnishings.

2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?

When designing the interior of a room I’m a big believer in selecting classic and neutral furniture items and then adding colour and textures through artworks and soft furnishings. It’s much easier to replace a cushion rather than a leather bed head.

3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?

My business partner (and cousin) Sarah Cress has an amazing eye for colour and design. Her home is full of beautiful pieces, which she has collected over the years in different life stages. Her father in-law was an artist (Fred Cress) so their walls are adorned with his works, which add a quirky dimension to their home.

4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?

Yes, I always start the design process with a scrap book. These days you can use online programs, like Pinterest, however I still enjoy the process of cutting out pictures from magazines and compiling them in a scrapbook. It’s amazing to see how very little my tastes actually change from year to year.

5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?

Starting The Block Shop has been one of the most difficult and challenging journey’s but also the most satisfying. I work with the most amazing group of women and my long suffering husband. And together we make a fantastic team and I can now honestly say I love what I do!