Founder of south east London’s beloved design destination, Do South, Freddie Oke is an expert in Afrocentric design and his shop is a go to for contemporary design pieces.
It may be that is there enough colour in the space with objects and furniture, it's about connecting the right things to make the magic happen.
How did you start out in design?
I arrived back in 2009 after living in Melbourne Australia and founded my store, Do South, in March 2011. I’ve always had an interest in Design as early as I can remember from shapes, colours and, amazing interiors.
What inspires you?
Waking up every day and feeling like I’m living a dream!! Being out with nature and feeling the energy from within to create my next light bulb moment.
Do you work from your own studio space?
Yes, we have an in-house design studio at Do South, it’s comfortable and fun to work in.
What is the job of design in this current world we live in?
To keep abreast of the current trends and environmental issues and importantly to keep real and honest to you.
How does your design process work?
It’s a journey. We help customers achieve their goals firstly by getting to know them and their brief. Communication is key so keeping relevant touch points throughout helps us all to the end goal.
How do you connect with colour/materials?
Sometimes it’s pure instinct and other times it may be that is there enough colour in the space with objects and furniture, it’s about connecting the right things to make the magic happen.
Keep real and honest to you.
What do you do to relax?
I love music and recently I’ve taken up singer-songwriting again. I’m a keen outdoor runner and yoga enthusiast, and I can’t get enough saunas too!
What’s your favourite song?
I absolutely love what i’m working on a the moment with my original material. Outside of me I don’t have a favourite song but recently went to see a couple of live performances; Pat Metheny and Bartees Strange, both very different but excellent!
Three words that describe you?
Easy going, humble and fun
Work, life, play – how do you balance them?
It’s important to have a structure and routine. Alongside these all of the above are equally important, I manage my time well enough to fit it all in these days
What advice do you have to any new designer?
Find what you love and study the greats and be greater!
What are you working on at the moment?
We are launching mid-September our brand new bespoke Kitchen range from our Crystal Palace showroom, I’m so excited!
Head over and check out the Do South website now or go to the store in Crystal Palace to find some inspiration in person.
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Sunderland Road
Coppermaker Square