In this episode of Get Set, Glow, Lisa Lavis speaks with Emma Capron, founder of Bean Interiors, to explore the realities of interior architectural design as a business discipline within the built environment. The conversation goes far beyond surface level aesthetics, revealing how thoughtful design plays a strategic role in commercial and residential outcomes alike.
Emma explains that interior architectural design sits at the very heart of the construction and built environment sectors. Unlike traditional perceptions of interior design as a final stage embellishment, her work begins at pre planning stage, collaborating closely with architects, clients and contractors to shape how a space functions both now and in the future. This approach prioritises longevity, adaptability and operational efficiency, which is vital for SME leaders managing long term investments.
The episode highlights the end to end process Emma follows, from initial briefing and concept creation through to technical drawings, bespoke joinery design, contractor liaison and final installation. For business owners and decision makers, this level of involvement reduces miscommunication, improves cost control and ensures the final output aligns with both functional needs and budget constraints. Emma speaks openly about balancing creativity with rising construction costs, time pressures and sustainability requirements, a challenge familiar to many industries across engineering, logistics and property development.
Sustainability is a core thread throughout the discussion. Emma describes practical steps such as reusing existing furniture, specifying durable materials, choosing low VOC products and supporting local suppliers where possible. These are not just ethical choices, but strategic ones that reduce waste, control lifecycle costs and enhance client value.
A key theme is collaboration. Emma emphasises the importance of working alongside architects, contractors, specialist makers and clients to achieve solutions that are both practical and refined. She also addresses the role of artificial intelligence within design, acknowledging its usefulness as a supportive tool for tasks such as image manipulation and administrative efficiency, while reinforcing the irreplaceable value of human judgement, experience and critical thinking.
Recognition also features strongly, with Emma recently becoming a Registered Interior Designer and full member of the British Institute of Interior Design. This accreditation reflects a commitment to professional standards, ethical practice and continued professional development, offering reassurance to clients operating within complex regulatory environments.
“It’s about collaboration all the way through, with architects, clients, contractors and specialist makers, to find the solution together.”
Ultimately, this episode positions interior architecture not as decoration, but as a business critical discipline that shapes how organisations and individuals experience space. Whether managing a commercial property, transport hub or residential development, the message is clear. Intelligent design, delivered through collaboration and expertise, creates measurable, long lasting value.
“When the client walks in and you see them light up, that’s what keeps me motivated. I am living my fourteen year old self’s dream.”
