Christian Bense on Timeless Interior Design, Art Filled Homes and Building a Design Studio

Interior designer Christian Bense joins Robin Johnson to explore how thoughtful interior design balances architecture, art, history and the personality of the people who live there. Christian shares his journey from South Africa to London, launching Christian Bense Interior Studio shortly before Covid and building a practice recognised by House & Garden. He explains why his studio avoids a fixed house style, how contemporary and traditional interiors can coexist, and why art, proportion, composition and architectural detail matter more than following trends.

The conversation also explores designing period properties, creating interiors with longevity, managing residential projects from concept to completion and building a creative business without losing involvement in the work. Christian discusses plans for a furniture collection centred on timeless staple pieces, the thinking behind his interior design platform The Basic Principle, and the lessons learned from 14 years in the industry.

Key Topics Covered

✦ Christian Bense’s journey from South Africa to becoming a London interior designer

✦ Building Christian Bense Interior Studio and gaining industry recognition

✦ Why the studio deliberately avoids a signature house style

✦ Combining traditional architecture with contemporary interior design

✦ Using art to create personal, characterful and layered homes

✦ Restoring character and respecting the history of period properties

✦ Designing timeless furniture instead of following interior trends

✦ Building a creative career while learning to enjoy the process

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