Lucy and Josh Sear-Barlow are the husband-and-wife team behind Barlow & Barlow, known for creating interiors that feel collected, characterful and entirely personal. We met them in their studio, surrounded by layers of inspiration, to talk about the spaces we live in, the stories we bring home with us, and why the best rooms (much like the best eyewear) say something about the people who choose them. Along the way, we discussed vintage finds, favourite houses, summer style shifts and the one oversized mackerel that has followed them from home to home.

We’re meeting you in your studio today, surrounded by the pieces, materials and references that shape your work. What does this space say about you both?

L: A lofty space that is creatively chaotic with lots to look at! I guess we are 'more is more' people and that is represented pretty well here with all the things going on but believe it or not there is a rhyme and reason to it all…

Your interiors feel layered, personal and full of character. What do you think makes a house feel truly lived-in?

J: We’re big believers in your house being an extension of your personality. I think you should be able to understand the essence of a person by being in their house. What sort of people they are, what they enjoy etc. So curating a space that holds pieces you’ve collected over your life, that you love and that tell a story suddenly turn a house into a home and the character of the inhabitants shines through.