“Atelier 44 officially launched in January 2024, but the journey started long before that. The business actually began under a different name, and over time, it evolved both creatively and professionally into what it is today.
“The recent rebrand to Atelier 44 marked a really exciting chapter. The name reflects not just the creative nature of the work but also the place where everything changed for me, number 44 is my home, the space where I changed careers, grew a family, and truly came into my own. It felt only right to let that be part of the story!
A practical but super stylish kitchen CREDIT Millie Short Photography “Since launching, I’ve been incredibly lucky to work with wonderful clients who’ve trusted me to bring their visions to life, something I never take for granted. Whether it’s a one-off consultation or a full renovation project, we pride ourselves on having a service that works for every kind of client. Our approach is always personal and considered, and we tailor everything to suit your lifestyle, your needs, and your space.
“I love incorporating both well-known and independent brands into my designs and sustainability is always a focus. Wherever possible, I bring in vintage or antique pieces to add soul and history to a space, alongside thoughtful, modern touches. It’s all about creating homes that feel collected, comfortable, and completely unique to the people living in them.’
How it all began?
“Looking back, the signs were always there. As a child, I was obsessed with The Sims, creating houses and rooms for hours! I was also constantly sketching floorplans of my bedroom and rearranging furniture. I must have moved that room around a hundred times just to see how it felt (driving my parents nuts). I didn’t realise it then, but I was already chasing the feeling of creating a space that felt like mine.
“My grandad was an interior designer, and he had a huge impact on me, even though he passed away when I was quite young. Shortly before he died, he designed my childhood bedroom and I still remember how it made me feel. It was my haven. That space felt like me, and I think it was the first time I realised how deeply a room can affect your emotional wellbeing. That stuck with me.
Colour is very much part of interior design CREDIT Millie Short Photography “Even with all that early inspiration, I didn’t grow up thinking the interiors world was for ‘someone like me’. Rightly or wrongly, it felt glamorous and a bit too out of reach. I didn’t go to university and needed to earn money straight out of school, so from the age of 16 I fell into various corporate jobs for the next 18 years that I convinced myself I enjoyed, but I knew it wasn’t really where I was meant to be.
“Then lockdown happened in 2021, and everything shifted, and I started a family in 2022. That pause gave me the time and headspace to reconnect with what really lit me up. I started with upcycling and that went really well, and I managed to build a small business out of it but I knew I needed more. It was a scary leap, but I studied my Interior Design diploma which led to creating my own business and I’ve not looked back since. It finally feels like I’m doing what I was always meant to do, and I feel so lucky to call this my job!”
It doesn’t get more stylish than this snug CREDIT Millie Short Photography What’s been a particular favourite project?
“I’m currently working on two projects that might just be my favourites to date. One is a bold, dark and moody living room layered with ambient lighting. It has a grown-up, elevated feel with a beautiful mix of modern and vintage elements. The other is a serene, light-filled bedroom using the most gorgeous fabrics and soft textures. I can’t wait to share the final reveals.
“In terms of completed projects, my own kitchen and snug area is really special to me. It’s a space that reflects my style, a mix of modern and traditional, grounded in earthy tones and filled with antique and vintage finds. It’s where my family lives and relaxes, so it’s personal, layered, and completely “us.”‘
This bathroom mixes old and new beautifully CREDIT Millie Short Photography Your thoughts on sustainable home interiors?
“Sustainability in interiors isn’t just a trend it’s essential. I always try to design with longevity in mind, choosing timeless pieces over throwaway buys and incorporating antique or vintage finds wherever possible. Not only does it bring soul and character to a space, but it also helps reduce waste and overconsumption.
“In my own home, I’ve used old kitchen counters someone was throwing out to create open shelving and my bathroom vanity is actually an old chest of drawers I upcycled into a sink unit. I love giving things a second life it adds story and meaning to a space.
“I truly believe beautiful design and conscious choices can go hand in hand. Whether it’s upcycling, sourcing locally, or encouraging clients to buy better and less we all have a role to play in designing more thoughtfully for the future.’
Hayley finds inspiration from many channels CREDIT Millie Short Photography Who and where you gather your inspiration?
‘I love Jo Jo Barr, Alexandria Dauley and Abigail Ahern as designers and draw inspiration from their designs and pieces. I get my inspiration from just about everywhere, nature, travelling, art. I love coming across something that stops me in my tracks on Pinterest or Instagram and getting a seed of an idea from platforms like that. Inspiration is often everywhere!’
Your favourite part?
‘Creating spaces that truly feel like home. I love starting with moodboards to get the feel going and then bringing in fabric samples and building a whole scheme from scratch. That’s the part I am most inspired in. And then of course, seeing the end result. There’s something incredibly satisfying about seeing a vision come to life, knowing it’ll make a difference in how someone experiences their space every day.’
Looking ahead…
‘Atelier 44 was built to offer something for everyone, whether you’re planning a full-scale project or just need a creative nudge in the right direction. I feel incredibly lucky to do this work, and I love connecting with people who share the same passion for the home.
‘I’m proud of how far the business has come in such a short space of time and building a client base purely through word of mouth and trust has meant everything. It’s been a whirlwind start, and I’m so grateful for the incredible projects I’ve been part of already.
‘That said… I’ve got big plans! I’m manifesting a spot on House & Garden’s Top 100 Designers list in the next five years – it’s definitely on my vision board!
‘You can usually find me sharing behind-the-scenes snippets, tips and finds over on Instagram, come say hi!’
Hayley brings together inspiration from many channels CREDIT Millie Short Photography More about Hayley
‘The beach is my happy place and I love walks in nature, travelling when I can, Pilates, going to the gym and being a mum to my three-year-old son, Remy.’
She’d take a peek around… Victoria and David Beckham’s Oxfordshire home. They’ve really nailed that traditional yet modern, classic English vibe, timeless but still cool! I imagine every detail is beautifully considered… and I bet they have an incredible wine cellar!
Hayley’s green bureau holds really fond memories holds really fond memories CREDIT Millie Short Photography Her home…
‘It is very much a reflection of everything I love, earthy tones, lots of texture, a mix of modern and traditional elements, and always a few vintage or antique finds thrown in. I like spaces to feel calm, grounded, and lived in somewhere you want to sink into at the end of the day.
‘My favourite room is probably the kitchen and snug area. There’s a real sense of flow between old and new, with layered lighting, natural materials, and pieces that have been collected over time.
‘One of the most special pieces in our home is an old bureau in the living room that I found unloved in the street. I upcycled it and painted it a deep green, and I just love the depth it adds to the room. It was one of the first pieces I ever gave a new life to, so it holds really fond memories!’
Hayley Fellows-Prior, founder of Atelier 44 CREDIT Millie Short Photography
Hayley’s top ten tips
1. Timeless over trendy
A timeless interior isn’t about playing it safe; it’s about layering classic elements with personality. Stick to natural materials like wood, linen, and stone, and introduce trend-led pieces through accessories that can be updated with ease.
2. Bring the outdoors in for a summer-ready vibe
Summer is all about connecting with the outdoors, so make your space feel breezy and open. Swap heavier drapery for light, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton, and open up the space with sheer curtains that let the natural light flood in.
3. How to choose the perfect colour palette
Start with something you love, maybe a piece of art, a fabric, even your favourite outfit and pull colours from that. Limit your palette to three to five shades: a main base, a secondary colour, and a couple of accents for depth and interest
4. Texture: The secret to a rich interior
If a space feels flat, it’s probably lacking texture. A mix of linen, wool, raw wood, and ceramics adds warmth and dimension, making even a neutral scheme feel rich and layered.
5. Sustainable design that still feels luxe
Sustainability doesn’t mean compromising on style. Look for well-crafted second-hand furniture that can be reupholstered, opt for natural fibres, and support local makers. Quality over quantity will always elevate a space.
6. Designing on a budget without sacrificing style
Affordable doesn’t mean cheap – it’s about being resourceful. Prioritise key investment pieces like a beautiful sofa or lighting, then get creative with pre-loved furniture, DIY upholstery, and high-street finds mixed with antiques.
7. Layering light for atmosphere
Lighting can make or break a space. Layer it: soft ambient lighting (think wall sconces or a statement pendant), task lighting (perfect for reading nooks), and accent lighting (candles, table lamps) to add warmth and depth.
8. How to make a room feel instantly more expensive
A well-thought-out interior feels more high-end. Go for oversized artwork, swap out standard handles for beautiful hardware, and add a large area rug to define a space. Even simple styling, like stacked books and ceramics, adds polish.
9. Bringing nature indoors
Greenery is the easiest way to breathe life into a space. Layer different heights – tall leafy plants, tabletop succulents, and hanging greenery – to create movement and an organic feel. Also, bringing wooden elements into your space can make a room feel more relaxed, I love going to Leigh Timber to pick up some reclaimed wood and they can cut it to size for you too!
10. The power of a statement piece
Every room needs a focal point, whether it’s a stunning vintage mirror, an oversized pendant light, or a striking piece of furniture. Invest in that one ‘wow’ item, and let it dictate the rest of the design around it.
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