[HBP#32] - Emma Hooton - Inside Studio Hooton: Transforming Heritage Interiors

*🎙️ You can also access the full Audio version of this Podcast by searching for 'Heritage Buildings Podcast' on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, PocketCasts, and your favourite podcast apps.*

Welcome to another episode of the Heritage Buildings Podcast.

Vincent Reed sits down with Emma Hooton, founder and design director of London-based Studio Hooton, to explore her journey from West London estate agency to leading a boutique interior design studio specialising in historic and listed properties. Trained at KLC School of Design and shaped by early experience under House & Garden Top 100 designer Hugh Leslie, Emma shares how craftsmanship, antiques, and bold, original thinking define her approach.

Emma explains Studio Hooton’s “anti–show house” philosophy, how she guides clients through clear and considered design decisions, and why communication and trust are just as important as creativity. She also discusses growing her studio organically, building a strong team culture, and navigating the complexities of working within conservation constraints—highlighted through projects like the Bishop’s Palace transformation.

*Other topics covered include:*

• Learning design during the Lehman Brothers crash

• The influence of craftsmanship and traditional materials

• Rejecting generic “showhome” interiors

• Managing client expectations and avoiding overchoice

• Building trust and understanding client psychology

• Growing a design studio without a rigid long-term plan

• Working with listed buildings and conservation specialists