A Life in Design

Where detail meets design

with VEERE GRENNEY — Esteemed New Zealand-born UK-based decorator

Lesson 8 of 40

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Serene and orderly, but never minimalist; characterful and captivating, but never maximalist; discover the non-negotiables in Veere’s work that contribute to his signature style.

From the Lesson Workbook

Where detail meets design

My style of interior design is often described as orderly and serene, and while it's not minimal, it's definitely not cluttered or maximalist either. I've come to realise that I think this is because I use detailing in a very specific way.

Simple detailing

Inspired by the manner of John Soane, it is my design inclination to take everything back to its simplest, most beautiful form.

I always keep the 'supporting acts' in the room as plain as possible. Around every doorway and window, rather than a big heavy architrave, I always opt for a simple staff bead. On the ceilings, I always use a Greville cornice rather than anything overly ornate or decorative. This enables them to blend into the room and allows for the real heroes to sing without any competition.

Hiding things to reduce clutter

In every project we do, I will always try to keep wardrobes and clothes storage outside of the bedroom.

When this isn't possible, I like to cover the wardrobe doors in the same wallcovering as the walls and then hang them with pictures and paintings so that they blend in with the rest of the room.

Beds should be an exciting experience

I always pay particular attention to beds within my projects, as they are a great way to evoke true comfort and relaxation. I opt for four posters with brass detailing.

As much as is possible, guest bedrooms should feel like a special place to be. Consider including a writing desk and armchairs for moments of relaxation. Hang beautiful artwork and decorate them with unique touches.

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Rated 4.7/5 on Trustpilot

437 reviews

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Very good tutorial from a professional garden...

I have subscribed to access all the courses so have watched one on interior design and this one with Butter Wakefield who specialises in small garden design. She ...

Louise Brown

Apr 10, 2026

Time spent well

I love CreateAcademy. I came in for the gardening and floristry courses, but am also watching an interior design one at present. And the photography course is an ...

Wellesley

Apr 1, 2026

What a great investment

What a great investment, I have learned such a lot from the first three courses. My evenings have gone from not being able to find anything that captured my imagi...

sojojo

Mar 30, 2026

I loved this course with Amanda\u2026

I loved this course with Amanda Lindroth! Her approach to decorating is so relaxed and she makes it feel attainable. She explains the reasons behind her decisions...

Elizabeth

Mar 27, 2026

Veere Grenney

Your Instructor

Veere Grenney

Esteemed New Zealand-born UK-based decorator

For more than three decades, Veere Grenney has shaped the landscape of international interior design with an eye for timeless elegance and a deep respect for tradition. Having begun his career under Mary Fox Linton, and later serving as a director at Colefax and Fowler, Veere went on to establish his own company in central London in 1996, one that continues to define the art of classic contemporary living.

His work has been consistently recognised at the very highest level with Veere holding a place in House and Garden’s Directory of 100 Leading Interior Designers for the past seven years, alongside being named one of Veranda’s ‘Magic Makers’ in 2013, and additionally is a proud member of Architectural Digests prestigious ‘Top 100’.

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