Reassuringly calm, cool and creative, with an eye for detail and an appreciation for both timeless style and architectural heritage.
We meet Tayla Exter, the founder of award-winning boutique interior-design studio Seven & Co.
There’s definitely something quite reassuring about Tayla Exter. Something down to earth and approachable that helps instil confidence that she and her team are, perhaps unlike some designers, not going to just force their own vision on their client’s project. Really listening and understanding is a key element. I think Tayla is probably a very good listener.
A Seven & Co Interior Design project in Pirbright, Surrey
Inside a Cobham Penthouse project
“We like to bring a broad perspective and a considered approach to every brief,” she says. “Successful design should do more than look beautiful. It should respond to the architecture, enhance how a space is used and ultimately make everyday life feel better.” No ‘square pegs in round holes’ or ‘one size fits all’.
My journey creating bespoke interiors has taught me that the most beautiful spaces are born from genuine collaboration and meticulous attention to detai
Each project is rightly treated as having multiple considerations that all need to be balanced to achieve the ideal result, creating something that is not just fresh and exciting, but sympathetic to the heritage of the existing architecture for example. Rather than treating these as limitations, Seven & Co. looks for opportunities within them: retaining character where it matters, introducing contemporary interventions where appropriate and creating a natural dialogue between old and new.
An outbuilding conversion in Shalford, Surrey
Also, if practicality and ergonomic considerations are not taken into account, then a design for a specific space is not fulfilling its potential. Perhaps this is an angle born from crucial experience across projects beyond just residential. The fact that Seven & Co.’s experience encompasses 5-star hospitality and commercial projects too speaks volumes. It’s one thing gaining design approval from homeowner clients, but it’s another level altogether creating work that has to undergo the scrutiny of commercial eyes (and corporate budgets) of entire committees. It’s far more than purely aesthetics that come under examination in such situations.
Materiality is also central to Seven & Co.’s approach, with natural finishes, antiques, bespoke elements and carefully sourced furnishings combined to create interiors with depth and individuality. Rather than following trends, the studio aims to create spaces that reflect their setting and occupants.
There is also an important emphasis placed on project management. Renovations and new builds can involve numerous suppliers, trades, decisions and deadlines, and the studio coordinates these elements through structured management and clear communication from concept to completion.
Its level of involvement varies according to each client’s requirements, ranging from full project leadership to expert guidance for those with an established vision. The studio works across residential, commercial and hospitality projects, adapting its approach to suit each brief.
Whether transforming a period property or developing a commercial space, Seven & Co. focuses on detail, functionality and quality. For Tayla, success lies in creating interiors that feel intuitive, comfortable and designed to remain relevant over time.
Tayla’s award winning creativity
Seven & Co projects have won:
UK property award 5* Best Bathroom in Surrey, and also
SBID finalist for office under 2000sqm
Seven & Co
Instagram: @sevenandcostudio
This article also appears in our autumn edition
