4 rules for the perfect home design, according to interior decorator Kelly Hoppen

Not many designers in the world can claim to be ‘Queen of England – Approved’, and even fewer that have been given a nod of approval by fashion empress Victoria Beckham. Wearing both seals, iconic interior designer Kelly Hoppen’s portfolio is a blend of A-list homes, multiple television shows and a repertoire of books that can complete any coffee table collection. The design brain behind the ‘Villas by Kelly Hoppen for Yoo’ in Pune, the acclaimed aesthete talks to ELLE DECOR India about her glossy career, signature style and how to design a home the Kelly Hoppen way.With over 40 years of experience, Kelly could design before she could drive. “As a child, my mother said I was constantly shifting furniture around our home… But I began properly when I was 16, when my father’s friend asked me to design his kitchen. It was my first assignment and I haven’t looked back since,” she says. She has remodelled the homes of English actor Martin Shaw, Formula One racecar driver Guy Edwards and the Beckham family – networking seems to have come easily to her. Rule number one, she says: “Don’t be shy!”But what do these homes have in common? We decided to dig deep into the Kelly Hoppen aesthetic. The basics: “Three things to keep in mind while designing a space are: texture, colour and proportion. They maintain harmony in a space.” The colour palette: “Blonde, taupe, black and greys – mixed. Rather than it being black and white, it’s a mixture of textures and a full spectrum of monochrome,” she says, explaining the recurring shades in her designs. Her design philosophy: “My design philosophy has always been to create timeless and understated elegance, whilst fusing the eastern principles of simplicity with the western taste for sumptuous textures and luxurious finishes. Simplicity is key.”To sum it up: “The classic Kelly Hoppen look is defined by straight symmetric lines and the use of my classic neutral colour scheme. I always start with a neutral base, and build on that,” she says. “However, I do love to complement my calm and neutral palette with great accents of colour that can transform a room.” You can also get a glimpse of Kelly’s designs without a ticket to the UK. The ‘Villas by Kelly Hoppen for Yoo’ in Pune feature modern lines, sleek interiors and lush fabrics.