In Conversation with GUY GOODFELLOW’S STEVEN RODEL
“Three words that capture the Guy Goodfellow aesthetic? Inviting. Characterful. Imaginative.”
Fresh from being named in House & Garden UK’s prestigious 101, Steven Rodel brings a quietly assured perspective to his role as Creative Director at Guy Goodfellow. Since joining the London-based practice in 2023, he has helped shape a design language that feels both deeply rooted and distinctly contemporary – one that honours the studio’s enduring architectural sensibility while embracing a more layered, expressive approach.
With over a decade of experience spanning influential roles at Harrods and the Rubelli Group, Rodel brings a refined understanding of craftsmanship, materiality and historical context. At Guy Goodfellow, this translates into interiors that balance tradition and modernity with ease – spaces defined by thoughtful juxtapositions, rich textures and a strong sense of narrative.
Under his creative direction, the studio continues to evolve its reputation for timeless, characterful interiors that feel as personal as they are polished. Wells had the privilege of speaking to Steven about all things design, here’s what he had to say…
What first drew you into interiors, and were there defining moments that shaped the designer you are today?
“My route into interiors grew out of a long fascination with historic houses and their contents. I studied an Art History degree, which deepened my appreciation for how spaces evolve over time and how objects carry cultural and personal meaning. Old buildings, in particular, hold the imprint of the people who have lived in them, and I’ve always been drawn to that sense of quiet continuity and storytelling. Early experience working with antiques, beautiful fabrics and traditional decoration instilled in me a deep respect for craftsmanship, detail and proportion. These formative influences shaped not only my aesthetic sensibility but also my approach to creating spaces that feel layered and enduring. Looking back, the defining lesson has been understanding that the most successful interiors feel personal rather than prescribed. When a space reflects the lives, interests and collections of its owners, it naturally acquires depth, authenticity and a lasting sense of character.”
How would you describe your design language, and what emotions do you hope clients feel when they walk into a space you’ve created?
“Our work is rooted in architecture and the pleasure of juxtaposition. We enjoy combining quietly rich fabrics, antiques and craftsmanship with contemporary art and modern pieces. It is always about the mix and the blend – allowing different periods and influences to sit comfortably together in a way that feels both natural and considered. When someone enters one of our rooms, I hope they feel immediately at ease. A house should feel welcoming, comfortable and quietly enticing, with a distinct sense of personality that is perfectly representative of its inhabitants.”
How do you move from initial conversations to a fully realised scheme?
“The process always begins with understanding the architecture of the house and the personality of the client. We spend a great deal of time listening. Often a project grows out of objects the client already owns or loves. From there the scheme develops as if assembling a personal collection rather than delivering a finished composition. Fabrics, furniture, colour and art begin to inform one another and subtle connections emerge. When everything is in balance, the result feels natural and uncontrived.”
How do you approach wallpaper within your projects?
“Pattern is essential in bringing warmth and character to a room. Without it, a scheme can feel rather flat. The key is hierarchy and balance. One pattern may take the lead while others quietly support it, creating depth. Wallpaper works particularly well where architecture needs encouragement. It can soften large walls, introduce atmosphere to smaller rooms or provide a narrative backdrop that plays with scale and colour.”
Great interiors aren’t just admired, they’re lived in. What practical choices make the biggest difference?
“Comfort is fundamental. A house must work beautifully for daily life. Generous seating, layered lighting and materials that age gracefully all contribute enormously. Natural materials such as wood, stone and good textiles develop character over time and make a home feel settled rather than newly assembled. Ultimately the best interiors invite people to relax, gather and enjoy the rhythms of everyday life.”
Your top design tip that everybody should know?
“Allow your home to grow gradually, adding pieces over time rather than trying to complete everything at once. The most interesting rooms are those that evolve, rarely finished in a single moment. Collect pieces slowly, where every object has a story and reflects your life as it unfolds. The beauty of a truly personal interior lies in its gradual accumulation of stories.”
To discover more, visit Guy Goodfellow
