So, you think you're an interior designer?

The Interior Design Business Podcast records live at Design Central with one of the industry's most thought-provoking debates. Hosts Susie Rumbold and Jeff Hayward are joined by Courteney Kiely and Helen Knox to explore one of the industry's most talked-about questions... Influencers are allegedly reshaping interior design – turning their own home renovation journeys into aspirational, shoppable content that bridges the gap between professional design and DIY styling. Positioning themselves as authentic, honest and accessible, they provide trend-led home design solutions primarily aimed at Generation Rent. But are these people fit to be let loose on an unsuspecting and sometimes gullible public? Can they cope with the tough realities of life on a building site? And, critically, do they have the in-depth knowledge needed to navigate the stringent rules and regulations that govern the building industry? Meet Courteney Courteney Kiely is the Founder and Creative Director of SCENE, a commercial interior design studio specialising in workplace, build-to-rent and co-living schemes. She believes interior design has the power to improve people's lives and is passionate about creating places that are both commercially successful and genuinely meaningful for the people who use them. After struggling to find a route into the profession herself, Courteney became determined to create a better pathway for future generations of interior designers. She played a key role in establishing the UK's first Interior Designer Apprenticeship, bringing together leading employers, educators and industry representatives to help create a clearer pathway into the profession. Courteney is passionate about raising standards within the profession, strengthening the connection between education and industry and ensuring aspiring designers develop the practical skills, technical knowledge and confidence needed to succeed within the industry. Meet Helen With over 17 years experience in luxury residential interior design Helen set up her award winning Cheshire Interior Architecture and Design studio with husband Simon Knox in 2017. Their practice is well known for innovative client-focused design. "Our personable design practice work on a range of historic renovation projects through to luxury new build properties predominantly in the North West of the UK as well as internationally" With a meticulous eye for detail and a passion for textures and colour Helen brings her design eye to all Lewis Knox projects as Creative Director, allowing her dynamic team of designers to work collaboratively on all projects. Helen is a keen member of the British Institute of Interior Design and Society of British Interior Design, believing that her studio should remain at the forefront of professional practice and continuously striving for excellence. Inside Talk Space This year’s show will feel a little different as we celebrate Design Central’s 10th anniversary. The exhibitors remain at the heart of the event, with an expanded Talk Space programme featuring business-focused sessions, interviews and live Q&A throughout both days. All talks are free to attend, but spaces are limited and must be booked in advance. There will also be a daily raffle designed to encourage you to explore the show, meet exhibitors and make new connections. General entry remains free. A paid VIP Experience will also be available as an optional upgrade for those who would like to make the day even more special, with added comfort, access and anniversary extras. Planning your visit To help you make the most of your visit, please note: ✔ This ticket reserves your place for this Talk Space session only. ✔ If you're attending more than one Talk Space session, please reserve a ticket for each session you'd like to attend. ✔ A Design Central North West 2026 admission ticket is also required to enter the show. Standard admission is free, with optional DC Extra and DC VIP upgrades available. ✔ Talk Space sessions are free, but advance booking is essential as seating is limited. ✔ Please arrive a few minutes before the session starts so we can welcome everyone comfortably. ✔ All Talk Space sessions take place inside The Queen Anne room of Capesthorne Hall. What people love and say about Design Central: "So many fabulous suppliers" @upholsterybybetty "Always happy when surrounded by fabrics!!" @miriaminteriors "Another great show at Design Central. Thank you so much for putting together such a great event in the North West." @larissgreatrexdesign "Thanks Design Central for all your hard work bringing these fabulous suppliers to us." @fionawdesign "The 'Luxury Interiors Trade Show' at Capesthorne Hall did not disappoint" @singletonbespoke "Exciting to have a interior design show close to home!" @aimeebalcombe.interiors "A really great day at Design Central meeting suppliers and connecting with designers" @_txtured_ "Rooms full of goodies" @live_by_george "Was great to meet so many interesting people" @rew_interiors "Really excited to see new trends, fabrics and furniture...Beautiful surroundings" @cole_and_fox_interiors "Busy day meeting up with some fellow designers and getting inspired by lots of lovely wallpapers and fabrics at Design Central. Fab location at Capesthorne Hall" @kparslowinteriors "Fantastic event at Design Central UK. Great to see some well known brands and some new ones alike" @biddis.lifestyle_design "If there's anything already in the diary, it's cancelled to go to this show" @designfixuk "A very inspiring day held in beautiful surroundings. Great to see so many exhibitors closer to home" @JMiltonUK "Great to see some of my design friends and look at new collections" @clairelouisedesigns "A great day at Design Central UK...caught up with design friends old and new" @Curve_Interior "Great day out at Design Central... Beautiful venue and fantastic fabric exhibitors. Discovered new designers I love and will blog about them soon!" @kregandesigns PLEASE NOTE: BY REGISTERING TO ATTEND DESIGN CENTRAL NORTH WEST YOU ARE AGREEING TO CBM DESIGN CENTRAL LTD SHARING YOUR DETAILS WITH OUR EXHIBITORS.