Redefining Success, with Beth Dadswell (Imperfect Interiors)

My final guest of the season is the wonderful Beth Dadswell, the creative force behind Imperfect Interiors. Beth has been one of my design heroes ever since I watched her episode of Grand Designs back in 2017, and her own Dalish home as well as her interiors more broadly have had a huge influence on the design of my own house.

After chatting for so long online, it was such an honour to finally meet her in person. Together, we explore how Beth has made the leap from fashion into interiors without any formal training. Over a decade later, she has been voted The Expert’s top 40 International Interior Designers for the past three years and has been featured in countless glossy magazines. We chat about why she’s chosen to keep her business intentionally small, and how redefining success has allowed her to build both a career and a life that genuinely suits her.

We also talk about imposter syndrome, the value of learning by doing, and why growing bigger isn’t always the same as growing better. We couldn’t resist diving into Beth’s beautiful collaborations with Pilgrim, from her collection of customizable furniture to her timeless paint range inspired by Petworth House, a place that holds a special place in both our hearts.

And of course, I had to ask Beth to spill the tea on what it was really like to have her own home documented on Grand Designs. I personally found this conversation so refreshing as a perfectionist and someone who struggles with imposter syndrome. I truly resonated with Beth’s approach. She’s not only incredibly talented, but also very warm, very kind and very generous.

As we come to the end of this season, I just wanted to say a heartfelt thank you to all my guests and to you for listening and supporting the podcast. If you’ve enjoyed this conversation, the biggest favour you could do me right now is to leave a rating or a review. It really does make such a huge difference, and I’d be so, so grateful. Now, without further ado, here’s Beth. Enjoy the show.

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Beth’s gorgeous East Dulwich home – a converted former Dairy factory – featured on an episode of Grand Designs (watch here)

Beth’s Barnes project, which was a huge inspiration in terms of layout for my own home – with its perpendicular island facing out onto the garden and slightly detached dining room.

Beth’s range of customizable furniture, developed in collaboration with Pilgrim

Explore the range here

Beth’s collection of nine timeless paints, inspired by Petworth House and developed in collaboration with Pilgrim and Fenwick & Tillbrook

Explore the range here
(My personal favourites are Ground Almond and Pear)

Avantcha’s Green Earl Grey

A green tea uplifted with the iconic taste of natural Sicilian bergamot with the addition of safflower and sunflower petals. An alternative to classic Earl Grey, which is made with black tea, this version is lighter, fruitier and ends with lingering, citrus-freshness. Ideal for the mornings or afternoons.

buy here