Interiors with Functional Flow and Style by Murudé

Designers

19 Nov

Words: designeers
November 2024

designeers

What inspired you to establish Murudé Studio in 2017, and how did your previous experience in both residential and commercial design shape the vision for your practice?

MURUDE KATIPOGLU

Establishing my design Studio in 2017, felt like a natural evolution in my journey as a designer. After years of working across both residential and commercial design, I wanted to create a practice that allowed for a more personal, bespoke approach. My experiences in both sectors deeply informed the vision for the studio. Residential design taught me how to craft intimate, functional spaces that truly reflect the individual needs and lifestyles of the people who live in them. On the commercial side, I gained insight into handling larger-scale projects, where aesthetics must balance with practicality, and where every detail serves a purpose.

The studio was born out of a desire to create timeless, elegant spaces that have both the warmth of home and the precision of commercial design. I wanted to design spaces that are both elegant and functional, while also being warm, personal, and timeless. I also saw the studio as an opportunity to take on more bespoke projects, where attention to detail and personal approach take centre stage. Ultimately, Murudé is about designing with soul and purpose, whether it’s a private home or a larger hospitality space.

designeers

Growing up with Cypriot, Mediterranean heritage, how has your cultural background influenced the warm, natural aesthetic that defines your designs?

MURUDE KATIPOGLU

My Cypriot, Mediterranean heritage is woven into every aspect of my design approach. Growing up surrounded by the natural beauty of Cyprus—its warm, golden light, the texture of stone, and the rich history in every corner—instilled in me a deep appreciation for simplicity and authenticity. There’s a certain timelessness and earthiness in Mediterranean culture that speaks through natural materials, muted tones, and textures that feel lived-in.

In my designs, I lean into these elements: the use of natural stone, wood, and textiles, combined with a palette that reflects the softness of the Mediterranean landscape— sandy neutrals, deep olive greens, warm ochres and sun kissed tones. I bring that warmth and sense of flow into every project, aiming to design environments that feel calm, grounded, and welcoming.

Culturally, there's also an inherent respect for craftsmanship and tradition in Mediterranean design, something that I carry with me in my practice. I love working with artisans and celebrating the handmade and the tactile as well as antique pieces. It’s about creating spaces that feel both elegant and lived-in—spaces that tell a story.

designeers

Is there a particular signature style, material, or design element that consistently appears in your projects, something that defines the Murudé Studio approach?

MURUDE KATIPOGLU

I describe studio’s aesthetic as refined, eclectic with hand finished quality. We love blending traditional details with contemporary design, mixing the old and new to create spaces that feel unique and lived in. Whether it’s incorporating classic architectural features alongside modern furniture or pairing a traditional furniture with a more contemporary upholstery, we strive to achieve a balance that feels both timeless and fresh.

We gravitate toward authentic, natural materials that age beautifully textured woods, natural stones, and tactile fabrics that invite touch. These materials are layered subtly, creating warmth and depth. By carefully blending textures and tones, we’re able to create environments that are sophisticated yet inviting.

designeers

From reconfiguring a grand country house in Hampshire to designing a private retreat on a remote Scottish island, what has been your favourite project to date, and why?

MURUDE KATIPOGLU

It’s impossible to pick just one project as a favourite as each project holds a special place for different reasons.

Scottish island retreat was a special project, we worked on it for over 3 years when we first establish as a company. It required a thoughtful approach to both the architecture and interiors, ensuring the design was in harmony with the natural surroundings while still providing a sense of comfort and luxury. We were involved from the very early days, working on master planning with the architects and heritage consultants and with our client shaping the vision for the project.

Restoration of the large country house in Hampshire was also a very special project for us. Our client fully trusted us with every element of the design, so there was a great sense of artistic freedom and a great team of talented people throughout the project which made the project very enjoyable and successful. Each project we work on tells a different story and holds a special place in its own unique way.

“Whether it’s incorporating classic architectural features alongside modern furniture or pairing a traditional furniture with a more contemporary upholstery, we strive to achieve a balance that feels both timeless and fresh.”

MURUDE KATIPOGLU

designeers

What is your favourite material to work with, and why does it resonate with you?

MURUDE KATIPOGLU

Other than textured characterful solid timbers, My favourite material to work with is marble. There’s something timeless and deeply elegant about it that always resonates with me. Marble has a natural beauty and unique character; no two slabs are ever the same, which means every project has a one-of-a-kind quality. The way it can transform a space—whether used in a grand statement piece like a fireplace or as subtle detailing in a bathroom or kitchen—makes it incredibly versatile.

What I love most about marble is its ability to bridge classic and contemporary design effortlessly. It has been used for centuries in architecture and interiors, yet it remains relevant and desirable in modern spaces. The material’s rich textures and variety of colour veining offer endless possibilities for creating depth and interest. It feels luxurious, but it also carries a sense of history and permanence, which makes it feel grounding and sophisticated.

designeers

Who is your design hero, and how have they influenced your aesthetic or approach to creating spaces?

MURUDE KATIPOGLU

I am not sure I would necessarily say I have a hero as I get inspired by different things, but I do have many designers that inspire me with their approach to design and their philosophies.

Ilse Crawford for her human-centred approach and timeless designs. Rose Uniacke for her calm and serene spaces and her use of antiques. Axel Vervoordt for his amazing use of earthy tones and textures and creating spaces with a soul.

designeers

3 suppliers you love working with in your designs?

MURUDE KATIPOGLU

De La Cuona (Textiles) Bauwerk: (Lime paint) and 1st Dibs (Antiques).

designeers

Penthouse or townhouse?

MURUDE KATIPOGLU

Townhouse.

designeers

What is your favourite hotel in the world?

MURUDE KATIPOGLU

Ett Hem in Stockholm designed by Ilse Crawford. It has every quality I want from a city hotel, It feels like a home, design is timeless and there is an understated luxury on every detail including the service.