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Standard Arm Signature Sofas & Standard Arm Signature Chairs

On The Sofa with Sean Symington

In this interview we sat down with interior designer Sean Symington, and discussed the inspiration, and art of creating timeless, individual homes.

    1. Hi Sean, tell us a bit about your journey into interior design.
    I grew up just outside Toronto, and from a young age I was drawn to interiors. While other kids were outside, I was rearranging my bedroom! It’s just always been in me. I went on to study at Toronto Metropolitan University’s School of Interior Design, which gave me a strong creative and technical foundation. After gaining experience at leading design firms across North America and the UK, I found myself most fulfilled by residential projects. I now call Bath home, and my studio is based in Tetbury, right in the heart of the Cotswolds. Living and working in this part of the world is incredibly inspiring.
    2. You’ve worked with George Smith furniture on several projects – what is it about the brand that resonates with your design philosophy?
    George Smith embodies so much of what we value in design – timeless craftsmanship, incredible attention to detail, and a commitment to quality that truly lasts a lifetime. I love that their pieces can be endlessly customised whether it’s the fabric, the finish, or the silhouette, they’re always willing to bring a vision to life. And beyond the product itself, their level of service is exceptional. You can reupholster their furniture time and time again and it never loses its integrity. That kind of longevity, paired with such beautiful craftsmanship, aligns perfectly with our philosophy of creating spaces that are both elegant and enduring.

George Smith Catalogue
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Interior Designer Sean Symington
    3. Are there any recurring sources of inspiration such as art, travel, or historical influences that consistently find their way into your designs?
    I’m constantly inspired by the charm of brown furniture, especially when paired with more playful colours or unexpected design elements like a Balineum mirror in a fun colour, it brings a wonderful sense of warmth and personality all in one. I also have a real love for natural textures like bamboo and rattan; they add a fresh, whimsical touch that keeps things feeling light and layered. Living and working in the UK, I draw a lot from local artisans and the incredible curators you find at antique markets, they really are a treasure trove of inspiration and always spark new ideas.
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Standard Arm Signature Sofas & Standard Arm Signature Chairs

Sean Symington's Favourite Products

Hogarth Chair

Hogarth Chair

From £3,420

Cloverleaf Pouffe

Cloverleaf Pouffe

From £1,980

Signature Sofa Standard Arm

Signature Sofa Standard Arm

From £6,900

Run Up Stool

Run Up Stool

From £1,260

Standard Arm Signature Chair

Standard Arm Signature Chair

From £4,140

Signature Sofa Short Scroll Arm

Signature Sofa Short Scroll Arm

From £6,900

Signature Stool (buttoned)

Signature Stool (buttoned)

From £1,920

Short Scroll Arm Signature Chair

Short Scroll Arm Signature Chair

From £4,140

    4. Many people feel intimidated by bold colour and pattern – what advice would you give to someone looking to introduce more of these elements into their home?
    Have fun with it! Design should be a reflection of who you are and often, it’s the imperfect, unexpected elements that bring the most personality to a space. If bold colour or pattern feels intimidating, start small. Introduce it through pieces that are easy to switch out, like artwork, cushions, or a great rug.

    5. With your love for layering, how do you strike the right balance between mixing different styles, textures, and periods in a way that feels intentional rather than overwhelming?
    I always start with a strong anchor, usually a hero print that’s either from a fabric or rug with a beautiful mix of pattern and colour. From there, I layer in complementary tones and textures, letting that initial palette guide everything from cushions to lamps and artwork. It’s all about thoughtful contrasts and understanding proportions: the juxtaposition of small and large scale patterns, rich woods next to rattan, or antiques paired with playful prints. It’s those thoughtful contrasts that keep things dynamic without tipping into chaos.

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Standard Arm Signature Chair with Skirt
    6. Can you share a memorable project where George Smith furniture played a defining role in the overall design?
    One particularly memorable project was in our Belgravia project, where George Smith played a key role in shaping the space. Collaborating with them, we designed a bespoke double-sided soft classic roll armchair with their team, it became a real focal point in the room, both in form and function. It perfectly embodied that balance of elegance and comfort we always strive for. We also tend to incorporate their Hogarth chair, which has become something of a signature across our projects. Its timeless shape and the flexibility of their bespoke service mean we can tailor it perfectly to each space bringing it’s own version of individuality in a variety of spaces.
Our Bespoke Process
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Cloverleaf Pouffe
    7. Lastly, any exciting projects in the pipeline where we might see more George Smith furniture?
    We’ve got some really exciting projects in the pipeline at the moment, including one in Italy and a couple of properties here in the UK including Kent, Gloucestershire and Chelsea. We would love to incorporate George Smith pieces into the drawing room of any of these homes, their sofas would look absolutely fabulous in their grand, elegant spaces. George Smith’s timeless design and craftsmanship always elevate a room, so you can certainly expect to see more in our upcoming projects.
Sean Symington Interior Design
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Standard Arm Signature Chair with Skirt

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