Hélène Dabrowski
Established in 2001, Hélène Marie Design specialises in high-end residential and boutique commercial interior design and decoration. From a townhouse in Chelsea to a pied-a-terre in Hyde Park, a family home in Belsize Park, detached homes in Surrey and Kent, a Cotswold manor and a farmhouse in Brittany, Hélène’s projects cover London and its surrounding counties as well as her native France. With over 20 years in the industry, Hélène has a wealth of contacts and experience on projects of all sizes.
Playful and inspired while getting the job done
Structured and efficient while keeping a sense of fun and originality at the centre, I work closely with my clients – whether it’s a full house refurbishment or a single consultancy – to create spaces that are alive and reflect their style, taste and personality. Known as the interior colourist for my imaginative use of colour and eclectic yet chic style, where crafts and antiques sit alongside modern furniture and art, I love making a house a home – beautiful and comfortable in equal measure.
Design Process
First, I sit down with my clients, listening and getting to know them. Understanding who they are and how they live, as well as their dreams and aspirations, is integral to guiding and shaping their vision for their home. This meeting lays the groundwork for the design to come. Therefore, not only do I find out about their plans for their home and design aesthetics, I learn about their daily lives and their particular needs.
I then interpret the client’s brief to produce a scheme & style direction for each space.
The next stage is to look at how the room and furniture layouts flow and interact to establish the best use of space and light.
It’s then time to review the technical design: lighting, electrical services and joinery – all the features important for the construction phase. This often involves collaborating with a wider project team, such as architects, project managers and joiners.
Next, we focus in on the more decorative aspects of the design: colour scheme, furniture, fabrics and soft furnishings. Then we move into implementation and procurement – bespoke furniture items are sourced, and orders are placed.
The final stage is installation! I oversee the delivery of the scheme, project and finishes to ensure it all runs smoothly and has been executed to a high standard, meeting or exceeding expectations. My aim, above all, is to leave clients with a house to be lived in and enjoyed – a place that feels like home.