Glowing Up with Anouska Lancaster
“I really wanted to share how important it is as a woman entrepreneur to help and empower other women. ”
Inner beauty begins the moment we decide to be ourselves, invest in people, and not play into competition. I really wanted to share how important it is as a female entrepreneur to help and empower other women- and let’s face it, it’s a bit of a jungle out there!
Since I started my Instagram account, my entire vision and professional life changed as I have met amazing self-made women in the industry boosting and promoting each other, rather than seeing each other as a threat. It has become more apparent than ever this year that women are stronger together and that we should empower each other.
I decided to create an Exclusives section on my blog as a medium to promote the women and men throughout the year who inspire me, and share them with you gorgeous people. I’m going to start with an amazing woman who I met this year who is working in the interior design industry like myself.
Anouska Lancaster at Annabel’s Mayfair
Anouska Lancaster is a fabulous interior designer who has a great sense of colour and is never shy to go tastefully overboard. She is a mum of two teenagers and happily remarried after going through quite a difficult first marriage. She built up her interior design business independently and when we met, we clicked immediately and found lots of similarities and common interests.
As a personal project, she has recently created the most beautiful cottage in the Cornwall. It’s beautifully renovated with great taste and lots of colour.
“My ethos is all about creating an interior that reflects the personality of the individual. It should be a true reflection of an individual’s personal style, rather than following what is perceived to be the ‘current trend’.”
You can rent this little gem for your holidays and discover the area and its numerous delicious pubs and restaurants in the area. I’m booked-in for sure, it looks so gorgeous.
Over a fabulous lunch exchanging ideas, stories and business tips, I wrote down some of the questions I asked Anouska and wanted to share them with you lovely people.
Describe your dream living room …
Anouska : My dream living room would be a celebration of colour, texture and pattern with inspiration everywhere in the form of wallpapers, art and sculpture. I’d want a central log fire and comfy seating all around where I could relax and socialise with my nearest and dearest.
Where do you get most of your inspiration ?
Anouska: I get inspiration from everywhere! I particularly love visiting art galleries and art fairs... I love to see the vision of young up and coming artists - I find this particularly inspiring.
Who’s house would you like to decorate ?
Anouska: I’d have to say Elton John. I’m a big fan of his, and judging by his bold and brave costume choices, we’d create an utterly outrageous and fabulous interior together!
What’s trendy for 2020?...
Anouska: I don’t know, and I don’t care! My ethos is all about creating an interior that reflects the personality of the individual. It should be a true reflection of an individual’s personal style, rather than following what is perceived to be the ‘current trend’. Trends pass and go out of style quickly. I create interiors with longevity that don’t bore, as they are tailor made to each individual that I work with.
What is your biggest moment?
Anouska: There have been lots of milestones and achievements since I set up Noushka Design in 2006. I’d have to say that my biggest moment was winning ‘Best London Club’ at the London Bar and Club Awards for my design of Green Carnation in Soho, London.
How do you empower women?
Anouska: I tell my story. It’s easy to see success and believe that it was handed on a plate. Being honest about my struggles and how I overcame them is the biggest gift I can give to other women. My journey has had more lows than highs, but each one has shaped me and built my career. Empowering women is uplifting one another, encouraging one another and supporting each other. There is power in numbers!
New bookings are open now at the cottage.
Anouska is currently renovating her second project in the area and I can’t wait to see what she has up her sleeves.
Visit @noushka_design and @hillsidecottage_portisaac