Designer insights with Liz Hoggard

Liz Hoggard is a journalist, feature writer and interviewer, publishing her work in prestigious publications, such as the London Evening Standard, The Guardian, The Daily Mail, The Times and The Independent. Liz writes about all manner of lifestyle and culture topics, including theatre production, art and travel and hotel interior design reviews. She writes from London, and loves nothing more than exploring the city and letting its new wonders inspire her writing. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Liz Hoggard.

Designer Insights - Liz Hoggard

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

I think my own style is probably chaotic salvage. I like dramatic styling: animal prints, glitter, found objects and furniture set against a feature red wall or table. A mix of antique and contemporary.

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

I read as much as possible. Part of the joy of interviewing a designer, artist or performer is you get to be their life detective for a short time. I’ll visit their home, gallery, watch films. Recently I was researching Eileen Gray: such a remarkable, charismatic woman.

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

I’m filled with respect for the picture editors and designers on magazines or newspapers who can transform/improve/rescue a story that just isn’t working. And so often these days at the theatre, I come out raving about the set designer. Simplicity can be thrilling.

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

I walk for miles in my home city London., there’s always some unusual gallery, small museum, garden, or pop-up bar or shop that I hadn’t seen before. As a writer you’re always looking for stories. Seize the moment and look now!

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

Journalism is a tough profession these days but I do believe that print and digital media can coexist. You have to be nosy as possible (and avoid being a snob!) but still hang onto your authentic voice. For young people, I’d say, find out what drives you, what’s your real passion? Then you have the tools to start a blog.