Alan Carr, Michelle Ogundehin and the Interior Design Masters 2026 designers tease "bigger, bolder, and quite frankly more bonkers" series 7

Alan Carr tasks 10 designers to reimagine eight incredible spaces from beach huts to castle hotels in Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr.

Weekly Stand Out Spaces lead to one winner who'll launch their own homewares range.

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Alan Carr

Pick up your paintbrush because we’re back for series seven of Interior Design Masters! Without giving too much away, what can viewers expect from this series?

It’s bigger, bolder, and quite frankly more bonkers and I’m here for it! What I love about the show is the different personalities, the design hacks and most of all the transformations. I think the show has such a dedicated following that we didn’t want to change it up too much, but there are a few few surprises along the way.

Tell us a standout moment of this series.

I think episode one is full of standout moments, the planets aligned that day. Gorgeous beach, glorious weather and 10 beach huts to transform on the South Coast - what’s not to love? They might look like a simple hut, but they are deceiving. There’s not much space, they have to be multi-functional, and you really need to think on your feet as a designer. I was so impressed with the designers, and I knew right there and then that it was going to be a brilliant series.

In the first task of the series, we see the designers to transform Dorset beach huts in their signature styles. What are your top three essentials when going on a beach holiday?

A good book, sun hat and a wind breaker.

Take us behind the scenes for a moment, any shocking moments or real design disasters? Did anything go awry?

One designer stenciled the outline of countries onto a wall in an off white, greyish colour. I innocently mentioned they looked a bit like damp patches - well let’s just say they soon got painted over. Maybe I can be a bit too honest sometimes!!

Did you learn any new skills or design tricks from the designers this series?

Every series there is a new design that grabs my attention and this series it’s colour drenching!! Be bold, grab the tin of paint with the boldest colour and drench drench, drench! It can literally transform a room and it’s so easy!!!

Interior Design Masters has an incredible following of both aspiring designers and TV lovers. What is your favourite part about hosting the series?

For me it’s getting to know the designers and see how they flourish after the show ends. Amy has designed wallpaper for my house, Peter just recently sent me a rug from his new collection, Banjo has gone on to do a tv show himself and Mollie worked on a project with Matthew Williamson. It’s so lovely to see all this talent being used – I feel like a proud dad!

Michelle Ogundehin

Without giving too much away, what can viewers expect from this series?

This series feels more confident than ever. The level of talent is high, but what I really love is the range of perspectives. You’re not just seeing people decorate, you’re seeing how differently people think about space, and how those decisions play out under real pressure.

What viewers can expect is a real mix of ambition and constraint. The briefs are demanding, the timelines are tight, and that’s where the truth of a designer really reveals itself. Who can make strong decisions and stand by them.

Tell us a standout moment of this series.

There’s always a moment in every series where someone stops trying to “get it right” and starts trusting their instincts, and you can feel the shift immediately. It’s like they’ve suddenly found the courage of their convictions.

This time, there’s a particular transformation where the designer leans fully into their point of view, rather than second-guessing it. It’s not safe, it’s not neutral, but it works because it’s confident and coherent. Those are the moments that stay with you, because they remind you that good design is rarely about playing it safe, sometimes it’s about making a very clear statement.

In the first task of the series, we see the designers transform Dorset beach huts in their signature styles. What is your signature style?

In truth, I’m less interested in style as a visual signature, and more about how a space feels to be in. I’m always looking at how a space supports you to actually live, for example, how it allows you to settle, to focus, or to connect. So that tends to lead me towards natural materials, lots of texture, and a sense of quiet coherence but always with a touch of the pretty, and a generous dollop of Chinoiserie. In summary, restraint meets materiality to provide atmosphere.

Take us behind the scenes for a moment. Any real design disasters? Did anything go awry?

There are always moments where things don’t go to plan - that’s the nature of working to tight deadlines in unfamiliar spaces.

What’s interesting is that the “disaster” is rarely the thing itself, it’s how the designer responds. Do they panic, or do they adapt? Do they try to hide it, or do they rework the idea? What’s that proverb? Something like accidents can be the mother of all invention?!

Some of the most successful spaces come from those moments of recalibration. The ones that struggle are often where someone clings too tightly to a plan that’s no longer working.

Did you learn any new skills or design tricks from the designers this series?

What I’m always reminded of is the value of ingenuity. Designers who can think laterally, who can take a constraint and turn it into something intentional. They are the ones who often produce the most interesting results.

There are always small, clever solutions: unexpected uses of materials, or ways of creating impact without relying on budget, but the bigger takeaway is mindset. The ability to stay flexible, and to keep designing even when things aren’t going your way.

Interior Design Masters has an incredible following of aspiring designers. What is one piece of advice for someone looking to take the next step in their career?

Focus less on how things look, and more on how they work.

The strongest designers understand that a space is not a photograph, it’s something people live in. It shapes behaviour, mood, even health. If you can design with that in mind, you move beyond surface decoration into something far more valuable.

And practically speaking: make decisions! Indecision is what derails most projects. Even a wrong decision will teach you more than no decision at all.

Meet The Designers

Ajeet

What can we expect from this series?

Variety, more than anything. We are ten very different designers, each with our own style and way of thinking, so even when we were given the same brief, the outcomes felt completely distinct. What you’ll see is how differently people approach the same space and just how much personality and perspective shapes the final result.

What was your main motivation in applying to be part of Interior Design Masters?

Honestly, it was to see if this was something I could really do! Before the show, I’d been made redundant and was in a period of real uncertainty; trying to land a full-time role, while also starting to explore interior design more seriously with a few clients. Applying felt like a bit of a leap, but also like something I was being pulled towards. We actually began the first challenge exactly a year to the day I was made redundant, which felt quite cosmic. It gave me the confidence to take it seriously, back myself, and embrace this transition.

In three words, describe your design style.

Transitional, Architectural, Sophisticated.

What interior design trend do you think can withstand the test of time?

Natural materials are timeless. Whether it’s timber, stone, linen or cotton, bringing those elements into a space adds an organic layer that’s very hard to replicate with anything else. They bring warmth, texture and a sense of permanence, and tend to age beautifully rather than feeling tied to a particular moment. I’d always encourage people to find a way to introduce something natural into their space, however small.

If you could design a room for any celebrity/public figure (dead or alive), who would you choose and why?

They absolutely don’t need my help, but I’d have to say Jessie Ware. Partly for the South London connection, but also because there’s so much to draw from in her world - music, food, family life - all my favourite things! There’s a real richness, warmth and personality there that would translate beautifully into an interior. There’d be a lot to celebrate in a space like that. And if Jessie isn’t in need of my services, then maybe her mum Lennie might be - mums love me!

Ben

Without giving anything away, what can we expect from this series?

I’d say what you can expect from this series is a lot of fun and creative ideas, good friendships made and a lot of laughs.

What was your main motivation in applying to be part of Interior Design Masters?

My main motivation to join Interior Design Masters was to get my name out there so I can start building my own interior design career.

In three words, describe your design style.

Antique, Historical, Quirky.

What interior design trend do you think can withstand the test of time?

The interior design trend I think will always stand the test of time is Victorian/antique style, as the way pieces and designs were done back then cannot be beaten.

If you could design a room for any celebrity/public figure (dead or alive), who would you choose and why?

If I could design a room for a public figure it would have to be Queen Elizabeth II, she’s a woman who has always inspired me.

Duran

Without giving anything away, what can we expect from this series?

I’ve watched every series of Interior Design Masters, and series seven has some of the most unique locations we’ve ever seen redesigned. Without giving too much away, viewers can expect a mix of strong design styles and big personalities that really pushed us as designers to think differently.

What was your main motivation in applying to be part of Interior Design Masters?

I had always thought about applying, and after coming out of a 10-year relationship, my sister sent me the application form and said, “You miss all the shots you don’t take.” She was right, and I’m so glad I listened, applying ended up being one of the best decisions I’ve made.

In three words, describe your design style.

Modern, Romantic, Sculptural.

What interior design trend do you think can withstand the test of time?

I think colour drenching is a trend that can really withstand the test of time because it’s not just about how it looks, but how it makes you feel. It creates a cocooning, immersive environment that can feel both dramatic and warm, and it works beautifully in spaces of all sizes

If you could design a room for any celebrity/public figure (dead or alive), who would you choose and why?

I would have loved to design a room for Prince! He had an iconic sense of style and was non-conforming in everything he did, which makes me think I would have a lot of freedom to push the boundaries of my own design style that was also reflective of his personality.

Emmely

Without giving anything away, what can we expect from this series?

I think this year is a real mix of designers from very different and unique backgrounds. Our styles are completely varied, which makes it really exciting to watch, I would walk around the spaces and be like wow so many varied approaches to the same space we all had been given, so I think viewers will definitely have their favourites.

What was your main motivation in applying to be part of Interior Design Masters?

I’m a sculptor and designer, so I’ve always been interested in spatial design. When you make sculpture you naturally think in a very three-dimensional way prioritising mood, emotion and how people experience a space. I also create a lot of furniture pieces and love finding beauty in everyday objects. Interior Design Masters felt like the perfect way to push myself creatively and learn more about interior design, without having to go back to university and spend a ridiculous amount of money.

In three words, describe your design style.

Creative, Uplifting, Playful.

What is your favourite interior design trend right now?

For me, the best interiors aren’t really about trends at all. If something is already a huge Pinterest trend or a TikTok hack, it can date quite quickly. What I learnt at art school is to look at tradition and timeless design and then add your own unique twist. Your home shouldn’t look like an algorithm, it should look and feel like you.

If you could design a room for any celebrity/public figure (dead or alive), who would you choose and why?

I would love to design a room for Tilda Swinton. She has such an artistic, unconventional energy and seems like someone who would really embrace a space that feels sculptural and imaginative. I’d love to create something immersive and slightly bonkers, almost like stepping inside an artwork… but if Tilda isn’t free, can we give Bjork a call?

Frankie

Without giving anything away, what can we expect from this series?

As an ex graphic designer, I love colour, shape, pattern, contrast, typography and scale. I like to create spaces that I would be thrilled to hang out in, and hope others will too!

What was your main motivation in applying to be part of Interior Design Masters?

I have never wanted to be on TV, so this whole experience has been very outside my comfort zone! I couldn’t resist the idea of having a bunch of fun spaces to design, a van, a budget, a painter and a carpenter on hand. Literally my dream scenario! So, I applied, went off to hike the Camino De Santiago and then got in!

In three words, describe your design style.

Colour, Joy, Play.

What interior design trend do you think can withstand the test of time? What is your favourite interior design trend right now?

I am OBSESSED with colour drenching. I hate a white wall and for me, there is never enough colour. I completely disagree with Pantone’s colour of the year – white is not a colour in my opinion! I’m on a mission to create fun, playful spaces with the use of bold confident colours. More is more!

If you could design a room for any celebrity/public figure (dead or alive), who would you choose and why?

Stevie Nicks – I would design a Californian 1970’s motel, complete with a sunken lounge, palm leaf fabrics, cane furniture, lots of mustard, big windows and lots of light. A kidney shaped pool with yellow striped sun loungers and a tiki bar! The seventies aesthetic is peak interiors in my eyes; I was born in the wrong era!

Jonni

Without giving anything away, what can we expect from this series?

This series is packed with hugely different personalities that were bold and creative! We brought some incredibly creative transformations and different ideas perspective to the challenges. Every designer brings a completely different perspective to the show, which will make the competition really exciting to watch. Viewers can expect plenty of risk-taking, moments of chaos, and some genuinely inspiring design along the way! Also, a lot of fun and laughter!

What was your main motivation in applying to be part of Interior Design Masters?

Since giving up performing, interior design has always been a creative outlet for me, and Interior Design Masters felt like the ultimate way to challenge myself. I’ve always questioned what my life would be like stepping away from the spotlight and how I could channel my creativity, so I asked myself, why not interior design? I wanted to push myself creatively and see how my ideas would stand up in such a high-pressure environment and I loved every second of it!

In three words, describe your design style.

Bold, Classic, Chic.

What interior design trend do you think can withstand the test of time?

Vintage furniture. Trends come and go and that also is true for vintage pieces, they start as being trend led and then develop a life of their own and tell a story. I love that some pieces can find new purposes and then have memories locked in them whilst also creating new memories. They instantly bring warmth and character into a space and help a room feel lived-in rather than overly polished.

If you could design a room for any celebrity/public figure (dead or alive), who would you choose and why?

I would love to design a space for Alan!! (Carr that is!). His personality and sense of humour are something I think speak to me as I think about creating a space for him. I’d create something playful, cheeky and completely chic, a room that would celebrate personality as much as the design itself.

Kate

Without giving anything away, what can we expect from this series?

You can expect bold ideas, big risks and a lot of personality. Every designer brings something completely different, so no two spaces feel the same. There are beautiful designs, plenty of fun, and definitely a bit of drama along the way. It’s creative and high pressure at times, but that’s what makes it feel so real and exciting!

What was your main motivation in applying to be part of Interior Design Masters?

I’ve always loved interior design, but as I got older, I realised it didn’t always feel accessible. When I was renovating my home, I’d save images I loved, get quotes and realise I just couldn’t afford to achieve that look. Instead of giving up, I started learning DIY and finding clever ways to recreate those spaces on a budget.

That’s really where my journey began. I’ve always loved transforming spaces, but I came into design through DIY, not a traditional route. Applying felt like a chance to prove that you don’t need to follow the “typical” path to be creative or capable. My mission is to show people that creating a beautiful home is possible, no matter your budget or experience.

In three words, describe your design style.

Creative, Resourceful, Layered.

What interior design trend do you think can withstand the test of time?

I think anything that feels personal will always last. Trends come and go, but spaces that mix old and new, with pieces that have meaning or history, never really date. I’m especially drawn to using vintage pieces alongside DIY elements, it creates a home that feels lived in rather than styled.

If you could design a room for any celebrity/public figure (dead or alive), who would you choose and why?

I’d love to design a space for Lily Allen. I feel like it would be such a fun, slightly chaotic collaboration in the best way. Instead of designing something super polished or expensive, I’d love to take her charity shopping and to car boot sales to build a space from pieces with character and history.

Lia

Without giving anything away, what can we expect from this series?

Viewers can expect the most ambitious and competitive contestants yet! Every week we pushed ourselves to the absolute limits of what can be achieved in just two days, and I think we surprised ourselves every week too (and the poor trades!). There were a lot of tense moments, and we were constantly fighting for time, right down to the last second of every challenge. The talent is so high this year and the spaces are magical. I think viewers will be genuinely surprised by the creative risks everyone was willing to take, even with the constant threat of ending up on Michelle’s sofa if it didn’t come out quite right!

What was your main motivation in applying to be part of Interior Design Masters?

I’ve been obsessed with the show since Series 1. For the last few years, so many friends had told me to apply, but I didn’t think in my wildest dreams I’d make the cut to join such an amazing bunch!

However, after being given creative freedom to redesign several staff rooms at my job in retail and seeing the impact my designs had on people, I knew I wanted to keep feeling that magical spark. I handed in my notice and made it my mission to give it 100% and try to make it as a designer. I then received the call to say I had made it onto this year’s line-up, which felt like a dream come true!

In three words, describe your design style.

Sophisticated, Joyful, Botanical.

What is your favourite interior design trend right now?

I have never been one to follow trends, even in my fashion sense; I believe strongly in a "your space, your rules" ethos. Trends will eventually always date or change, and you end up not staying true to yourself. If you design with your own principles and feelings, the space will always feel personal to you, and that’s the most important thing in design.

If you could design a room for any celebrity/public figure (dead or alive), who would you choose and why?

Oh, can I have two? Vivienne Westwood or Iris Apfel. I loved how they dressed and how they expressed their personalities through textiles and interiors. In a world where creativity sometimes seems to get lost, or standing out from the crowd is seen as a negative, both women always did the opposite, and I think we all need that energy in our lives! They always encouraged me that being bold, colourful, and embracing being quirky is the best way to live.

They were also two powerhouse woman at the top of their field, and I think their work was so inspirational and they had a huge impact and still do on the interior and fashion world today. I’ve always wanted to decorate a room in layered tartan and dark woods; Vivienne would have been the perfect client.

Sophie

Without giving anything away, what can we expect from this series?

Incredible design styles, crazy challenges and a little bit of drama! I think our signature styles all differ so much this year, it was amazing to see how the same brief can be interpreted in so many different ways!

What was your main motivation in applying to be part of Interior Design Masters?

I knew I had to apply to be part of Interior Design Masters when I started my small business; I wanted to show everyone what I can do! I have a unique design style that I want to share with the world. The opportunity to get hands-on experience in a competitive environment and get 1-2-1 feedback from some of the most well-respected people in the industry was what I needed to become a better designer, a better business owner and a stronger, more confident person.

In three words, describe your design style.

Rebellious, Layered, Atmospheric.

What interior design trend do you think can withstand the test of time?

For me, maximalism will always stand the test of time. My heart longs for storytelling, personality and joy, which I don’t think can be extracted in the same way from minimalism. There’s a richness to layers of colour, print, texture and intentional clutter which instantly makes me feel happy and at ease.

If you could design a room for any celebrity/public figure (dead or alive), who would you choose and why?

I’d love to design a space for Ncuti Gatwa. He has such a cool, expressive sense of style, which feels really aligned with my maximalist approach. I’d create something layered, playful and full of personality, somewhere that feels as bold and characterful as he is, rather than overly polished and predictable.

Teo

Without giving anything away, what can we expect from this series?

Expect a lot of colour, pattern and some fresh ideas!

What was your main motivation in applying to be part of Interior Design Masters?

My main aim for going on Interior Design Masters was to show other guys that interior design is something you can be interested in — it shouldn’t be judged or boxed in. Having a space where you can switch off, escape and feel comfortable is something everyone needs.

In three words, describe your design style.

Relaxed, Punchy, Contrasting.

What interior design trend do you think can withstand the test of time?

Warm wood panelling is something that will last a lifetime. The natural connection it creates with the outdoors is unmatched. And the outdoors isn’t going to disappear anytime soon.

If you could design a room for any celebrity/public figure (dead or alive), who would you choose and why?

I’d have to pick Ayrton Senna. Imagine the fun of curating all his trophies, helmets and memorabilia. Taking his energy from the track and translating that into a space would be really special.

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