A Q&A with otta design

This month, we speak with Alexandra Keith from Otta design. known for creating timeless interiors that balance elegance with a warm, lived-in character, blending thoughtful detail with effortless style.

Abacus Flatweave Rug in Colour Sorbet - Photography by Johnathan Bond

To start, tell us about the brief behind this project.

To transform the ground floor of this London home to reflect our client’s love of rich colour and pattern, championing skilled British designers and craftspeople. Our client’s had recently retired and moved to Clapham from the Chilterns to enjoy the vibrancy, stimulus and culture London has to offer. They were open to being challenged with ideas and every decision felt considered and authentic.

What are your ‘go to’ destinations for independent designers and makers?

Pimlico Road, North Kensington, Etsy, Clerkenwell, Inspiration from Instagram.

What is your favourite part of the design process?

We particularly enjoy getting to know our clients, understanding who they are and how they want to live. This stage of the design process is key and shouldn’t be hurried. The more questions you ask at the start of the project the better the final outcome.

How do you approach building soft furnishings into your schemes?

Soft furnishings are key to creating an interesting, layered interior. Pattern and colour can be introduced through the window treatments, cushions, and upholstered furniture such as a footstool or armchair. Ideally, we will find a fabric that has multiple colours reflecting the colour palette of the scheme. This could be on the footstool and be the standout piece in the room. It is then a case of balancing colour, pattern and scale.

What materials, textures, or colour palettes are you currently drawn to?

We are currently drawn to natural colours and textures. Autumnal palettes have always been a favourite with Otta Design, olive greens, ochre and russets all feature in our projects and we are excited for the coming season.

Thank you alexandra - we have enjoyed learning about the vision and creativity behind your work!

Our abacus rug is available in both Hand-Knotted and Flatweave styles, offered in a range of colours as below.

ABACUS FLATWEAVE IN COLOURS SORBET, MOOR, POSY, CIRRUS & TEAK

Each A RUM FELLOW rug is the result of a close collaboration with skilled artisans, where contemporary design meets generations of weaving expertise. Crafted with care, every rug carries a story of integrity and tradition — timeless pieces designed to enrich interiors and support the communities who make them.

Every rug is made to the highest standards of quality and integrity, certified by Label STEP and GoodWeave to ensure fair trade practices and a supply chain free from child labour. This responsible approach celebrates traditional artistry while creating pieces that stand the test of time.