Why Designers Keep Coming Back to Design Central: Federica of Whitefoot Interiors
- Laura Biggs
- Jul 10
- 5 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
At Design Central, we’re all about building a strong, supportive community of interior professionals. That's why we spoke with Fed, founder of Whitefoot Interiors, to get her take on why attending our event has become a vital part of her design journey. From sourcing new materials to building long-lasting relationships with suppliers and fellow designers, Design Central offers far more than just inspiration.
What you’ll discover in this blog:
Fed's journey as an interior designer and the impact of switching careers
Why Design Central is a “lifeline” for designers looking for fresh ideas and new connections
How attending the event helps Fed make confident design decisions and strengthen client relationships
Her favourite moments from past shows and the suppliers that have inspired her work
About you
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your interior business? What kind of projects do you typically work on?
I’m Federica (though everyone calls me Fed here in the UK) and I’m an interior designer originally from Italy, now based in leafy Cheshire. I run Whitefoot Interiors, where I help clients create homes that feel personal, functional, and full of warmth… with a touch of Mediterranean charm, of course!
My projects range from residential redesigns to styling homes for rent or sale, and I occasionally dip into boutique commercial spaces too. I love working with people who care about their homes but aren’t sure where to begin. I see my role as making that journey easier, more joyful, and a little less overwhelming.
How long have you been in the industry, and what do you love most about being an interior designer?
I’ve been in the industry since 2021, after making a bold career change from teaching (yes, I swapped schoolbooks for sketchbooks!). What I love most is the impact good design can have on everyday life, how the right layout, colour, or lighting can completely shift the feel of a space. That, and the moment a client walks into their newly finished room and says, “I never thought it could look like this.” Nothing beats that.
The show experience
Why is attending interior design shows like Design Central important to you as a professional?
Shows like Design Central are a lifeline for designers. It’s one thing to scroll through suppliers online, but being able to see, touch, and compare materials in person is a completely different experience. I always leave buzzing with new ideas and with a few samples, brochures, and business cards tucked under my arm! Plus, it’s always great to catch up with suppliers and fellow designers in person.
What makes Design Central stand out from other trade shows you’ve attended?
There’s something really down-to-earth and welcoming about Design Central. It doesn’t feel overwhelming or overly corporate. The setting is beautiful, the exhibitors are approachable, and there’s a genuine sense of community. It’s like someone thoughtfully curated all the good bits of a trade show and left the rest behind.
Can you share a memorable moment or highlight from your visit to the show?
At my last visit, I ended up in a surprisingly deep conversation with David Mottershead about colour drenching and the story behind the Little Greene name. I also got to see Kate Hatherell, who not only trained me as a designer, but is now a colleague I admire and also give a brilliant talk on AI in the industry. And honestly, just sharing a coffee with another designer while bonding over procurement struggles and delivery nightmares was another highlight! Those spontaneous moments, where people, creativity, and caffeine all come together, are what make the day so worth it.
How does seeing and experiencing products in person change the way you source for projects compared to online sourcing?
It’s a total game-changer. You can immediately tell if a fabric drapes well, if a finish feels slightly inferior, or if the colour is actually what it looks like online. It saves so much second-guessing and helps me make confident decisions for my clients. And let’s be honest…it’s way more fun too!
Which exhibitors or products have you discovered at Design Central that have influenced your designs?
Too many to name! I still remember my first visit and the Havwoods coffee bus which made quite the impression! Over the years, I’ve discovered or reinforced connections with some brilliant suppliers that have since made their way into client projects, including ILIV, PT Blinds, and Porcelanosa, to name a few. It’s a great place to find fresh inspiration and bounce ideas off the suppliers.
Networking and community
How has attending Design Central helped you connect with suppliers or fellow designers?
I’ve met some wonderful people at Design Central. People who’ve turned into collaborators, trusted suppliers, and even friends. It’s such a welcoming environment, and it never feels like anyone’s just there to sell to you. Everyone’s open to chatting, learning, and sharing experiences.
Have you built any valuable relationships at the show that have benefited your business?
Absolutely. Some of my go-to suppliers now are brands I first discovered at Design Central, and a few of my most helpful design conversations have happened between talks and coffee breaks. Sometimes a five-minute chat at a stand leads to something so much bigger and that’s the magic of face-to-face.
What’s the biggest advantage of being part of the Design Central community?
It’s that reminder that you’re not in this alone. Running a design business can be isolating at times, especially if you’re a one-woman studio like me. Events like Design Central bring you back into a creative, supportive fold.
Encouraging others to attend
What would you say to other interior designers who haven’t yet attended Design Central?
Go! Whether it’s for the inspiration or just the lovely people - you’ll leave with fresh ideas, new contacts, and probably a tote bag full of samples you didn’t know you needed. And since so much in our industry is so “London-centred,” it’s a real gift to have a show like this right on our doorstep.
If you could sum up your Design Central experience in three words, what would they be?
Inspiring. Friendly. Essential.
Don’t Miss Out – Join the Design Central Community!
If you’re an interior designer looking to learn, collaborate, and connect with the best in the industry, Design Central is the place to be. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned pro, the event is an unmissable opportunity to find inspiration, strengthen your network, and source everything you need for your next project.
Be part of something special – register now to attend our next show and experience it for yourself!
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