Alicia Malcolm-Robinson is an interior decorator and renovator of her own 1920’s home, along with her husband - all of which she writes about on her blog Keep It Beautiful Designs. Based in Ottawa, Ontario, Alicia loves transforming her house into a sophisticated, fresh and fabulous home for her family. Her ultimate goal is to share her everyday and easy to follow DIY ideas, and to inspire others to follow in her footsteps. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Alicia Malcolm-Robinson.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
I love fresh, layered, clean lines with a combination of classic meets contemporary. I believe that all spaces, big or small deserve to be beautiful, fit your lifestyle and can be done on any budget.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
I usually start at the end and work backwards. I find having a vision of the “end look” helps to then describe how the space should feel. I also find gathering a favourite material or rug is a great jumping off place to let the brainstorming begin.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
I admire anyone who loves a good DIY and has passion for creating beautiful spaces. My Dad can build anything & as longs as I can remember, I loved watching him create projects out of his head. I don’t ever remember him hiring anyone to fix anything in our house. Taking on a project allows you to create something out of nothing using your own creativity.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
One of my favourite things to do is sit down with a fab home design magazine and see what designs are fueling people’s souls. I use what’s on the pages to adapt to my own home and clients’ home to ensure beautiful spaces are created that make them house proud.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
Home design fuels my soul. When I was in University, I didn’t have a typical dorm room as I was always decorating it with beautiful bedding & textiles. I knew that it was my passion. I truly believe that if you are passionate about something, you will succeed. It takes dedication, time and it’s important to listen and learn from others in the field.
