In this episode of Yours For The Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Helena Martin, Lead Interior Designer at Hollaway Studio, to unpack the art of creating interiors that are as functional as they are beautiful. Helena explains her narrative-led design approach, where every project tells its own unique story, whether it’s a luxury jewellery store, a multi-storey skate park, or the entrance to one of London’s most iconic skyscrapers.

She shares how she balances creative vision with practical constraints, navigates the challenges of heritage building restoration, and embraces sustainable materials to deliver interiors that stand the test of time. From unexpected discoveries in renovation projects to the pressures of rising material costs, Helena gives an unfiltered view of the modern design process — and offers advice for aspiring designers on versatility, collaboration, and building a personal style that lasts.

Key Topics Covered:

• Narrative-led interior design and tailoring spaces to each client
• Balancing form, function, and heritage preservation
• Designing Stephen Webster’s Burlington Arcade jewellery store
• Material selection and sustainability in commercial interiors
• The impact of Covid-19 and planning delays on renovation projects
• Rising material costs and transparent pricing strategies
• Unexpected discoveries during renovation and creative problem-solving
• Collaborating with architects and specialist craftsmen
• Avoiding short-lived design trends for timeless interiors
• Advice for aspiring designers on adaptability and creativity

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Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.

Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms.

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Key Moments:

00:00 – Introduction to Helena Martin and Hollaway Studio

04:15 – Narrative-led design and tailoring interiors to the client

10:42 – Designing Stephen Webster’s Burlington Arcade store

17:28 – Balancing heritage restoration with modern functionality

23:56 – Sustainability and timeless material selection

31:40 – Project delays, planning permission and Covid-19 impacts

39:12 – Managing rising material costs and client expectations

46:05 – Uncovering historic features during renovations

53:47 – Collaborating with architects and specialist makers

1:01:20 – Advice for aspiring interior designers

1:08:15 – Hollaway Studio’s standout projects and creative process

1:16:40 – Personal renovation experiences and lessons learned

1:24:30 – Final reflections and future design aspirations