This month, Interior Designer Lanassir Gunton, Founder of Swank Interiors, shares a recent project: refurbishing the counselling and therapy rooms at Sue Lambert Trust in Norfolk
When designing interiors, the focus isn’t just on how a space looks, it’s also about how it feels. In some environments, that feeling can make all the difference. Recently, I had the privilege of working with the Sue Lambert Trust on the refurbishment of its counselling and therapy rooms. The charity provides free specialist support to survivors of sexual abuse, sexual violence and rape across Norfolk, and these rooms are where people begin or continue some of the most important conversations of their lives. Creating spaces that feel safe, welcoming and calming was therefore at the heart of the project.
On my first visit, it was clear that the rooms had served the charity well over many years but were in need of updating. The furniture was mismatched, the carpets were worn, and the overall environment no longer reflected the quality of care being provided within them.
Working closely with Sarah Youngs, Business Operations Manager, I took time to understand how each room was used, the practical requirements of therapists, and the unique needs of the people accessing the service. Although every room differs in size and layout, it was important that they all offered a consistent experience, one that felt comfortable, reassuring and thoughtfully designed.
The design scheme needed to be both cost-effective and practical, while creating a significant improvement to the environment. Every decision was made with longevity, ease of maintenance and user wellbeing in mind.
Colour plays a powerful role in how we experience a space, so I selected a balanced palette that feels calm, fresh and restorative, with subtle uplifting tones to create warmth and optimism. We were also incredibly grateful for the support of Crown Paints, whose contribution helped bring the project to life.
Furniture selection was equally important. Comfortable, ergonomic seating of commercial quality was chosen to provide support during long and often emotionally challenging sessions. Soft throws were added to create an extra layer of comfort when needed, while natural wood furniture, carefully selected lighting and greenery help create a gentle connection with nature. Durable, high-quality flooring completes the scheme, providing practicality while maintaining a warm and welcoming feel underfoot.
The response to the refurbishment has been incredibly rewarding. Staff have spoken about how much more enjoyable the rooms are to work in, while clients have commented on how cared for and valued they feel in the new surroundings.
A few comments that particularly stood out include:
“The rooms look amazing! All my clients have commented on how great they look. It feels really different working in them.”
“Thank you for all of the great work you do. I absolutely love the rooms and, most importantly, so do the clients. It feels like you have put a lot of thought and heart into it.”
Projects like this remind me that good interior design is about far more than aesthetics. Thoughtfully designed spaces can help people feel safer, more comfortable and better supported, something that is especially important in therapeutic environments.
It has been a real pleasure to work with the Sue Lambert Trust, and I hope these refreshed spaces continue to provide comfort, dignity and support to everyone who walks through the door for many years to come.
Lanassir Gunton is a BIID Registered Interior Designer based in Norfolk. Visit Swank Interiors.
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